Who finds the people, locks the locations, and helps hold the whole production together? That’s the question behind a recent episode of We Digress, the podcast from the creative agency Mitchell+Palmer. The episode features talent and location scout Jennifer Diehl, founder of Jennifer Diehl Production & Talent. She talks about the behind-the-scenes work that shapes every shoot, long before the cameras roll.

What Does a Talent and Location Scout Do?

Viewers rarely see the work behind a commercial, photo shoot, or film. Someone has to find the right faces and the right places. A talent and location scout matches people and settings to a creative vision. They also handle the details that make a shoot possible: permits, lodging, transportation and timing. Based in Sun Valley, Idaho, Jennifer has been bringing brands to the area for more than two decades. She also travels to wherever a project needs to be.

Finding the People

Casting is about more than looks. The right talent fits the brand, takes direction well, and brings energy to set. JDPT represents a diverse roster of talent, including “real people” models, athletes and actors. They’ve appeared in work for brands like LL Bean, REI, Eddie Bauer, Merrell and Marriott, and in commercials for clients across Idaho.

Locking the Locations

A great location tells part of the story before anyone says a word. Sun Valley has four seasons and a huge variety of terrain close to town, so a single trip can cover a lot of looks. From mountain backdrops to farms and ranches, Jennifer finds locations that look right and work for the production. That includes handling the permits needed to shoot there. For a sense of what winter can offer, read Sun Valley: A Snowy Paradise for Photo Shoots.

Holding the Production Together

A good scout is often the glue on a project. JDPT can handle a whole shoot from start to finish:

• Casting and location scouting
• Crew and production RVs
• Props and set builds
• Styling, hair and makeup
• Catering and equipment rentals

Clients get one dependable point of contact, and the brands they work with keep coming back.

Watch the Full Interview

Hear the whole conversation in Jennifer’s own words. Watch the full We Digress interview with Jennifer Diehl on LinkedIn →

Ready to plan your next shoot? Browse our talent and locations, or contact Jennifer to get started.