The Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) is the largest organization of Location Managers and Location Scouts in the motion picture, television, commercial and print production industries. Their membership plays a vital role in the creativ
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LMGI COMPASS | Winter 2024 • 25 Stevie: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING IN LOCATIONS? HOW DID YOU START AND WHAT DO YOU PRIMARILY WORK ON? YAW AMPONSAH APENTENG: I come from the mountains, close to Accra. My original dream was to study architecture, but I never got the chance at the university I attended. I did industrial art for three years and dropped out because I didn't like it. After I left school, I was reading a newspaper and saw an advertisement for film school admissions. I knew nothing about filmmaking, but I got curious. In 2005, I was admitted to the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI) to study television production and moved to Accra. I graduated in 2010 with first-class honors. I found film and television more interesting than architecture, though I have not lost my love for it. I've been working in locations for 12 years now. My first experience came in 2011 when I did an internship at an advertising agency. I was tasked with scouting locations for international commercial directors for various projects. I didn't readily understand the impact of what I was doing but I observed that most of the locations I scouted were greatly loved by the directors and production designers. The directors brainstormed directly with me and I began to realize how significant a career in locations might be. I actively sought out opportunities to work on films, independent projects and local productions. This allowed me to collaborate with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in scouting potential locations, negotiating permits and managing logistics. I now work primarily on film and television projects. Stevie: WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE PRIMARY DRAW FOR FILMING IN & AROUND ACCRA & ITS SURROUNDING AREAS IN GENERAL? WHAT KIND OF "LOOKS" ARE THERE? WHAT ARE YOUR PERSONAL FAVORITES & WHY? YA: The vibrant and bustling city of Accra is a filmmaker's paradise, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes and diverse population. The city's vibrant markets, colorful streets, rural landscapes and historical landmarks—such as slave forts and castles—add depth and authenticity to any production. The mix of traditional and modern architecture creates a visually captivating contrast that can bring any story to life. Additionally, Accra offers a diverse range of locations that can easily replicate settings from Nigeria and Congo/DRC. Producers can ensure the safety and well-being of their cast and crew, while still capturing the essence of other African nations. My personal favorites are the Makola Market and Elmina Castle and fish market. Makola Market's narrow alleys, colorful stalls and bustling crowds create a visually captivating backdrop. Scenes for Enslaved with Samuel L Jackson were filmed at the Makola Market, as well as for Snowfall Season 6. I shot establishing shots for Sony Studios' The Woman King at Elmina Castle. Situated on the coast, it offers breathtaking views of the ocean. It's one of the oldest European-built castles in Africa, with a rich history dating back to the 15th century. It served as a hub for the transatlantic slave trade, making it an intriguing setting for historical films or documentaries that explore this dark period in human history. The castle itself is a stunning piece of architecture, with its distinct Dutch and Portuguese influences. Elmina is a town with a diverse mix of people and cultures. The fish market is bustling with activity, giving filmmakers the opportunity to capture the lively atmosphere and authentic cultural experience. Stevie: WHAT TYPES OF PRODUCTIONS FILM IN ACCRA? YA: Feature films, TV shows, documentaries and commercials. Stevie: WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE IN YOUR JOB? YA: A significant challenge is the lack of coordination and support from local authorities. Obtaining permits and permissions to shoot in certain areas can be a bureaucratic and time-consuming process. There is also a lack of adequate film infrastructure with regards to equipment. However, collaborating and leveraging on the South African film infrastructure to service films from Europe and America represents a remarkable leap forward in our industry. Through this partnership, we have been able to learn, grow Yaw Amponsah Apenteng/LMGI. Photo by Dennis Obuobi Stevie Nelson talks to Yaw Amponsah Apenteng/LMGI about living and working in Ghana's vibrant capital city and its surrounding areas. Photos by Yaw Amponsah Apenteng/LMGI, except as noted