Shot List Template: How to Create a Shot List for a Film
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Jun 7, 2021 • 1 min read
A shot list is a detailed list of every camera shot that needs to be captured in a scene of a video production. Created by the director and the cinematographer during the preproduction process, it outlines the precise specifics of every shot—such as the camera, shot size, and shot type—so the cinematographer and assistant director know exactly what needs to be captured to tell the story visually.
Learn From the Best
Standard Shot List Template for a Film Shoot
Whether you’re making a feature film, a television show, or a short film, a shot list helps determine the most efficient shooting schedule. It also keeps every department on track and ensures that all crew members across every department know which scenes and types of shots are being filmed when. You can write camera shot lists in a myriad of ways, but they all generally contain at least the following information shown on this template.
Want to Learn More About Film?
Become a better filmmaker with the MasterClass Annual Membership. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by film masters, including Spike Lee, David Lynch, Shonda Rhimes, Jodie Foster, Martin Scorsese, and more.
Film 101: What Is a Shot List? How to Format and Create a Shot List
Jun 7, 2019
Who Is the First Assistant Camera? Who Is the Second Assistant Camera? What Do Camera Assistants Do?
Apr 30, 2019
Guide to Preproduction in Film: 7 Elements of Preproduction
Jun 23, 2020
What Is a Movie Director? The Responsibilities of a Film Director and Tips on Directing Actors
May 21, 2019
The Essentials of Camera Shots: Getting the Right Shot and Understanding Film Terminology
Apr 9, 2019
What Is a Gaffer? Understanding the Responsibilities and Role of a Gaffer on a Film Set
Jul 30, 2019
Other articles
Jodie Foster’s Essential Preproduction Advice
Sep 28, 2020
Shooting Script: How to Write a Shooting Script
Dec 13, 2022
What Is An Establishing Shot? How to Effectively Use Establishing Shots in Your Film
Jun 27, 2019
Film Careers: How to Become a Script Supervisor
Jun 25, 2020
Understanding the Role of a Best Boy on a Film Set
Jun 29, 2020
A Basic Guide to Media Literacy: How to Be Media Literate
Sep 3, 2020