What is a Shot List?

Use this Shot List Template

Notes from LAvideo Filmmaker

What to include in the shot list: 

1. Every shot should be given a unique number. I do not recommend starting with number 1 again for each scene – this creates too much potential for confusion. You should instead give every shot in the project its own number – going from shot number 1 all the way to shot number 953 if necessary.

2. Each shot should be described concisely using terms that will be understood by professional crew members, but ultimately it is the director who has to feel comfortable with it, because during the shoot crew members will be receiving instructions from the director, not from the shot list.

3. Wise directors who have made the effort to develop a proper understanding of film editing should add remarks that have editing implications for each shot...

4.Performance notes for the actors are also worth including in the shot list, as an ultra-concise reminder of the directions you plan to give the actors...