Producer and Director how-to

How to Build a Shot List for a Scene

Shot lists keep shoots on schedule.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Shot lists keep shoots on schedule. In short: break; pick; plan, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Break down the scene.

  2. Pick key moments.

  3. Plan wide, medium and close shots.

  4. Order by setup.

  5. Estimate time.

  6. Share with the crew.

Safety reminders for producer and directors

  • Follow set safety rules
  • Plan stunts with experts
  • Manage crew fatigue
  • Follow location permits

Pre-production · Production · Post-production · Call sheet · Shot list · Blocking: see the full producer and director glossary.

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