Shot list
Also called shooting list, shot sheet
What is a shot list?
A shot list is a document that lists every shot you need to film for a video, usually in a table. Each row describes one shot: the scene, the framing (wide, medium, close-up), the camera angle or movement, the location, props and any notes. It turns a script and storyboard into a practical plan for the day.
Shot lists are usually ordered by shooting efficiency rather than story order. You film everything in one location or with one setup together, even if those shots appear at different points in the edit. Columns often include shot number, scene, shot size, angle, movement, audio, talent and a done checkbox.
For small business videos, a shot list is often the only planning document besides the video script. It is especially useful for B-roll, because it is easy to forget the small cutaway shots that make editing possible.
Why a shot list matters
A shot list stops you getting home and finding a missing shot. Reshooting means booking the location, the people and the light again, which can cost more than the original shoot.
It also makes shoots faster and cheaper. When everyone knows what comes next, setups are grouped, time is not wasted deciding on the spot, and the editor gets every piece needed to cut the promo video or reel as planned.
How to make a shot list
- Go through the script and storyboard and write down every shot each scene needs.
- For each shot, note size (wide, medium, close-up), angle, movement and any props or people.
- Add B-roll and cutaways: hands, product details, the space, reactions.
- Reorder the list by location and setup so you film efficiently.
- Estimate time per shot and check the list fits the time you have.
- Tick shots off during the shoot and grab a couple of spare takes of the key ones.
Shot list example
# | Scene | Shot | Angle / move | Notes
1 | 1 | Wide | Eye level, static | Bakery counter, morning light
2 | 2 | Close-up | Overhead | Hands shaping dough
3 | 2 | Extreme CU | Slow push in | Crust cracking as bread is sliced
4 | 4 | Medium | Handheld follow | Customer taking the bag, smilingShot list FAQ
What is the difference between a shot list and a storyboard?
A storyboard shows what shots look like, in story order. A shot list is a written checklist of the same shots, often reordered for filming, with practical details like location and gear.
Do I need a shot list for phone videos?
A short one helps. Even five or ten lines on your phone notes app makes sure you capture the B-roll and close-ups you will want when editing.
Related terms
A storyboard is a sequence of sketches or frames that shows each shot of a video in order, with notes on action, text and audio.
A video script is the written plan for a video: what is said, what appears on screen and in what order, scene by scene.
B-roll is supporting footage cut into a video over the main shot, such as product close-ups or scenes of a space, to show what is being said.
A-roll is the main footage of a video that carries the story, usually a person speaking to camera or the core action, with B-roll cut in around it.
A talking head video shows a person speaking directly to the camera, framed from the chest or shoulders up, often with captions and B-roll.