A field production team built around documentary work

Leo Scene began because too many documentary shoots were being let down by kit that arrived late, crew who did not understand factual filming, and production managers left to solve problems on their own. We set out to offer something simpler: properly maintained field equipment, experienced documentary crew, and a single point of contact who actually picks up the phone. Every job we take on is treated as if the story matters, because it does.

The company is operated by LEO DICKINSON PRODUCTIONS LIMITED, and that is the name on the paperwork, the insurance and the invoices. In practice you will deal with Leo and a small team of freelance camera operators, sound recordists and runners who have worked on current affairs, observational documentary and long-form series. We keep the crew list short on purpose, so the people who turn up know how we work and what you expect from a shoot day.

Our kit is chosen for real locations rather than studio comfort: lightweight camera bodies, run-and-gun audio packages, LED lighting that runs off battery, and support gear that fits in a car boot. We test everything before it leaves the store, and we carry spares of the things that fail most often. If a piece of equipment is not right for the job, we will say so and suggest something better, even if it means less money for us.

What sets us apart is not a long list of famous clients, but the way we work on the day. We arrive early, we listen to the director, and we adapt when the contributor changes their mind or the weather turns. At the end of the shoot we hand over cards, notes and a clear record of what was captured, so the edit can start without a scramble. That is the whole promise of Leo Scene.

We are based in the UK and travel wherever the story takes us, from city estates to coastal paths. If you are planning a documentary and want to talk about field production services, we would rather have that conversation early than late. Get in touch and we will tell you honestly what we can do and what it will cost.