The Function of a Shot List In Film and Video Production
Today, we’re coming at you with a quick guide all about shot lists, including a shot list example, who creates them, and their overall impact during production.
Image via: Noble BIson Productions
A professional video production shoot can get hectic quickly. With so many moving pieces, you may wonder how everything stays on track. While the professionals on set have a great deal to do with how smooth a production goes and how organized it feels, they follow what’s called a shot list.
WHAT IS A SHOT LIST IN FILM & VIDEO PRODUCTION?
The shot list is a detailed outline of every shot on the schedule for the day. A typical shot list includes the location, camera shot (i.e., wide-angle), equipment/gear, and more. To get an idea of what a shot list looks like, see a simple example below. It shows a schedule from the beginning of the day until lunch break.
SHOT LIST EXAMPLE
Now you can see why the shot list is the primary schedule everyone on the set goes by. It impacts who arrives on set and when. It controls who goes into hair and makeup and what tasks the prop or wardrobe crew is handling at any given moment. And as for someone like the 1st AC, they use the shot list to prepare for equipment and gear changes between scenes.
Who Creates the Shot List?
The director usually creates the shot list during pre-production. Depending on the production project, the producer and director of photography may also assist in building the shot list.
Who Keeps Everyone on Schedule?
The AD (assistant director) typically keeps everyone on track with the shot list. They’re always thinking ahead for what’s next. For instance, the AD confirms the talent has arrived and makes their way through hair and makeup, so they are ready for their upcoming scenes. They also help prepare for a company move to a new location if that’s on the schedule. They’ll make sure the art department is on top of their tasks, as it relates to the following scenes. And so on.
To Close,
A lot happens during a professional video production shoot, from designing the set to preparing talent, equipment changes, and much more. But shot lists give method to the madness. Professional video production is much like a skilled orchestra; everyone is on top of their domain and manages their responsibilities based on the schedule. When everyone works together towards the end goal in this way, it shows in the final product.
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