Creating a shot list for pre-production involves outlining every scene and camera shot needed for your project. This list helps guide your team during filming, ensuring a smoother production process. Here’s how you can create an effective shot list:
Contents
Steps to Create a Shot List
1. Define the Vision
- Understand the purpose and tone of your project.
- Consider how the visuals will support the narrative or message.
2. Break Down the Script
- Read the script/storyboard and divide it into scenes.
- Identify key moments that need to be captured.
3. Categorize Shot Types
- Determine the type of shots needed for each scene:
- Establishing Shots: Set the context or location.
- Close-Ups: Highlight emotions or details.
- Medium Shots: Show interactions between characters.
- Wide Shots: Capture the environment and character placement.
- Tracking Shots: Follow movement.
- Over-the-Shoulder Shots: Emphasize conversations.
- Cutaways: Add variety or detail for smoother transitions.
4. List the Technical Details
- For each shot, specify:
- Camera angle (high, low, eye-level).
- Camera movement (pan, tilt, zoom, dolly).
- Lens type (wide, telephoto, etc.).
- Lighting requirements.
5. Organize by Shooting Schedule
- Group shots by location or actor availability to maximize efficiency.
- Note which shots need specific weather, lighting, or time of day.
6. Include Notes for the Team
- Mention special instructions for actors, props, wardrobe, or set design.
- Highlight VFX or post-production needs.
Shot List Example Template
| Scene | Shot # | Description | Shot Type | Camera Angle | Movement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Opening shot of city skyline | Wide/Establishing | Eye-level | Static | Golden hour lighting needed. |
| 1 | 2 | Close-up of protagonist’s face | Close-Up | Low angle | Push-in | Add soft focus on the eyes. |
| 2 | 1 | Conversation in the café | Over-the-Shoulder | Eye-level | Static | Ensure natural light is diffused. |
| 2 | 2 | Hand stirring coffee | Insert/Cutaway | Top-down | Static | Focus on the texture of foam. |
Pre-Production Tips
- Use apps like Shot Lister, StudioBinder, or Celtx to organize and share your shot list.
- Collaborate with your director, cinematographer, and production designer during planning.
- Stay flexible on set—be ready to adapt your list if needed.
