Outdoor live event production is definitely an art form in terms of production requirements. Some cynics might say you need eyes in the back of your head, others might say that may not be enough. Outdoor live events pose particular problems 
for venue managers, and the audio visual issues are in a class of their own.
Outdoor live events, basic issues
Outdoor live events are all different. The venues are different, the environment is different and the recording issues can vary enormously.
These are the main issues for audio visual production:
The sites of audio visual recording:
It’s common practice for more than one site of recording to be used for any outdoor event. Whether it’s a rock concert or a flower show, the mere fact of multiple recording sites instantly raises the issues of setting up to record. Even with mobile audio visual gear you need:
- Clear space to video the participants in the recording session
- Good audio, either radio microphones or portable directional microphones
- Security to ensure recording can proceed smoothly without interruption
Weather proofing:
Assume that it will rain, or that weather conditions may interfere with recording. You may need a designated alternate site or recording subject in some cases.
Scheduling and flexibility in scheduling:
There’s no such thing as “all right on the night” in live recording. This may require some shuffling of both people and places to get everything done.
Access for recording personnel and equipment:
In some outdoor venues, the jungle of venue equipment can pose problems of its own. It’s important that all venue areas intended for audio visual recording make space available for the work.
Safety and OHS issues:
Whether you’re recording a corporate audio visual or a farm equipment exhibition, the basic recording process may involve exposure to situations where there’s an element of risk, including basic safety issues like falling off the stage (it does happen) and tripping over cables, etc. Recording sites should be thoroughly checked to ensure the safety of recording personnel.
Dealing with the outdoor live events issues
That may look like a lot of problems, but in practice it’s pretty easy to manage them with some good organization:
1. All sites for recording should be agreed in advance, and the recording crew made familiar with the environments. Professional audio visual people do know how to keep themselves out of trouble, if they’re properly briefed.
2. Weather issues should be agreed in advance, and the audio visual team notified of any shifts of site for recording to pre-agreed locations.
3. Scheduling should be notified to all participants at least a week before recording. This allows time to factor in any changes and keep everyone informed of alterations to scheduling on a straightforward basis.
4. Access issues involve notifying area managers of the times and requirements of recording.
5. Safety and OHS aren’t negotiable. Area managers should ensure full compliance with any safety requirements prior to recording and a delegated manager should check for any safety issues in advance.
Whatever the event, there’s one other basic rule of thumb for outdoor live events- Murphy’s Law. If a problem is possible, expect it to happen. Keep an eye on everything yourself.