Drehort

Drehort is a German term meaning filming location—the actual place where scenes for film, television, or commercials are shot outside a studio. The concept contrasts with studio sets and designed interiors and is used to achieve authenticity, atmosphere, and sometimes cost savings. The choice of Drehorte is part of location scouting, which weighs scenery, architectural style, historical period, weather, daylight, and access for cast and crew.

Selecting Drehorte involves permissions and logistics. Filming rights must be obtained from property owners or public authorities, and crews must comply with safety, traffic, noise, and environmental regulations. Insurance, permits, parking, and power supply are coordinated, and the schedule is tuned to daylight and weather. Depending on location, costs and incentives may influence the decision to shoot on site rather than in a studio.

Production often combines exterior Drehorte with studio work. The use of on-site locations can affect local economies and attract tourism, while also raising concerns about disruption to residents and businesses. After filming, many Drehorte gain additional exposure and become part of a region’s cultural identity.

Related terms include Dreharbeiten (the actual filming period) and location-related concepts in German cinema. In English-language contexts, Drehorte are referred to as on-location shoots or location shooting.