on location
/ɒn ləʊˈkeɪʃən/
Meaning
'On location' refers to filming or recording in a real-world place outside of a controlled studio environment, such as a city street, a desert, or an actual house. This term is used to contrast with shooting on a sound stage or set. It is a neutral, industry-standard term used by both professionals and movie fans.
Examples
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The crew spent three weeks on location in Iceland filming the dramatic opening sequence.
The crew spent three weeks on location in Iceland filming the dramatic opening sequence.
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I prefer movies shot on location because the environments feel much more authentic.
I prefer movies shot on location because the environments feel much more authentic.
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They had to stop filming on location because of an unexpected rainstorm.
They had to stop filming on location because of an unexpected rainstorm.
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The historical drama was shot entirely on location in a medieval castle in Scotland.
The historical drama was shot entirely on location in a medieval castle in Scotland.
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It is often more expensive to film on location than to build a set in a studio.
It is often more expensive to film on location than to build a set in a studio.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The movie was filmed in location in Paris.
✓ The movie was filmed on location in Paris.
The correct preposition is always 'on,' not 'in' or 'at' when using this specific phrase.
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✗ We are going to a location for filming tomorrow.
✓ We are going on location for filming tomorrow.
While 'a location' is a noun, the idiomatic expression for shooting outside the studio is 'on location' without an article.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Instead of using green screens, the director insisted on filming ________ ________ in the desert.
💡 Filming in a real-world place rather than a studio.
Show answer
on location
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The cast had to travel to Rome because several key scenes were shot ________ ________.
💡 The phrase used when a crew shoots in actual cities or landscapes.
Show answer
on location