How to Book a Commercial Photography Location in Los Angeles

Booking a commercial photography location in Los Angeles involves more than finding a pretty house on a location platform. Here is what experienced producers consider — and how Caster House in Tarzana is designed to meet those needs.

Start with the aesthetic Before rates or availability, define the visual language of your shoot. Are you looking for clean and minimal? Industrial? Residential? Mediterranean? Caster House specializes in a Santorini-inspired aesthetic — white plaster arches, blue pool, valley views — that has supported campaigns for Anthropologie, Free People, Kopari, Summer Fridays, and Réalisation Par.

Verify production infrastructure A location that looks great on Instagram may not support a working crew. Key questions: How many cars can park on site? Is there a green room for hair and makeup? Can the electrical system handle lighting rigs? Caster House accommodates up to 25 vehicles across three on-site lots, offers two green rooms, and has a fully accessible circuit breaker.

Understand the permit situation In Los Angeles, location permits are managed through FilmLA. Caster House sits within FilmLA's permit zone. Pulling a permit is at the production's discretion for smaller crews — Caster House has no history of neighbor complaints — but is required for crews over 25 vehicles.

Know the rates before you scout Caster House rates scale by crew size, starting at $295/hour for 1-5 people and increasing in $50 increments per crew tier. A $500 site rep and cleaning fee applies to all bookings. A four-hour minimum is required.

Book the scout first Caster House offers site visits by appointment before committing to a booking date. Email bookings@caster.house to schedule.

Caster House is owned and operated by commercial photographer Ali Mitton and producer Bryan Whalen of Mama Bear LA, and is located in Tarzana, California.

Visit caster.house to learn more.