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
Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1542231
8 • LMGI COMPASS | Winter 2026 IN THE NEWS LMGI Joins Forces with the Austin Film Commission On September 15, the LMGI and the Austin Film Commission co-hosted a location managers lunch with a dedicated group of Austin- based location managers at the Film Commission offices. The goal was to introduce the Guild's mission, values and member benefits in a relaxed, open forum where attendees could ask questions, share experiences and connect as a community. What followed was an engaged conversation about the future of the Texas film industry—and how the LMGI can support the growth of local location professionals. About 15 local location managers attended, along with Ali Nichols of the Texas Film Commission, who joined to learn more about the Guild's work and show continued support for the regional industry. The smaller group created an intimate environment that encouraged candid discussion about challenges, opportunities and the value of a strong professional network. I had the pleasure of presenting to the attendees and outlining the benefits of LMGI membership—benefits that extend beyond resources to include becoming part of a global community that advocates for one another and helps elevate our craft. I highlighted several milestones that reflect the Guild's growing influence: IMDb's adoption of "Locations" as a formal department category and the Television Academy's acceptance of location managers into its peer group for Producers. Both were hard-won achievements that have contributed significantly to raising the profile of our profession. A standout element of the event was the generous partnership between the Austin Film Commission and the LMGI Membership Committee. In a meaningful show of support, the Austin Film Commission pre-purchased first-year memberships for attending location managers who wished to join. This investment sends a clear message from the city: Strengthening the LMGI's presence strengthens Austin's film ecosystem. It reflects a shared belief that professional unity and industry development move forward together. This gathering would not have been possible without the leadership of Brian Gannon (Austin Film Commissioner/ Senior Director of Film Marketing) and Kim LeBlanc (Visit Austin Film Marketing Angus Ledgerwood/LMGI leading presentation Manager). Their continued commitment to Austin's film community creates opportunities that uplift local professionals, and their collaboration with the LMGI made this event both productive and encouraging. The timing of the meeting could not have been better. It followed the launch of the new Texas state tax incentive program—offering up to a 31% cash rebate—and came just before the debut of the city of Austin's Creative Content Incentive Program, which adds up to a 2.5% incentive for qualifying film and television productions based on wages paid to Austin metro area residents. The state is entering a pivotal moment: Production is returning, confidence is rising and a renewed sense of momentum is taking hold. Bringing Austin's location managers together to discuss shared goals, shared challenges and a shared professional home within the LMGI felt like the beginning of an important new chapter. I left the Austin Film Commission offices genuinely inspired by the enthusiasm in the room. As the LMGI continues expanding its regional presence, I look forward to deepening its engagement in Texas and supporting the talented professionals who define the state's film landscape. For more information on filming in Austin, please visit: https://www.austintexas.org/ film-commission/ by Angus Ledgerwood/LMGI