Shot List
A Shot List is a planning document used in film and video production that works like a detailed checklist of every camera angle and scene that needs to be filmed. Think of it as a production's to-do list or recipe book that helps keep filming organized and on schedule. This document helps everyone on set know what needs to be filmed, in what order, and how it should be filmed. It's similar to a storyboard, but instead of drawings, it uses written descriptions. Production teams use shot lists to save time, stay within budget, and make sure nothing important is forgotten during filming.
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed Shot List and shooting schedule for 12-episode web series
Collaborated with director to develop comprehensive Shot Lists for television commercials
Managed production efficiency by implementing detailed Shot List system across multiple projects
Typical job title: "Assistant Directors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Assistant Directors
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle last-minute changes to a shot list during production?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain their problem-solving process, including re-prioritizing shots, communicating changes to all departments, and ensuring the day's essential shots are still captured while maintaining the production schedule and budget.
Q: How do you coordinate between different departments when creating a shot list?
Expected Answer: They should discuss how they bring together input from director, cinematographer, art department, and other teams, ensuring all technical and creative needs are considered while keeping the production efficient.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What elements do you include in a shot list?
Expected Answer: Should mention key components like shot number, scene number, shot type, camera movement, brief description, equipment needed, and estimated time for setup and filming.
Q: How do you organize a shot list to maximize filming efficiency?
Expected Answer: Should explain grouping shots by location, lighting setup, or actor availability to minimize setup time and optimize the shooting schedule.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of a shot list?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a planning tool to organize filming, ensure all necessary shots are captured, and help communicate the plan to the entire production team.
Q: What's the difference between a shot list and a storyboard?
Expected Answer: Should explain that shot lists are written descriptions of planned camera shots, while storyboards are visual representations using drawings or pictures.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of shot types and camera angles
- Creating simple shot lists
- Following existing shot list templates
- Basic production terminology
Mid (2-5 years)
- Creating detailed shot lists independently
- Coordinating with different departments
- Managing time efficiently during shoots
- Problem-solving on set
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex shot list creation for large productions
- Budget considerations in planning
- Team leadership and coordination
- Managing multiple unit shoots
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic film production terminology
- Unable to explain different types of camera shots
- Lack of experience with production scheduling
- Poor communication or organizational skills
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Supercharge Your Candidate Screening: 7 Unorthodox Ways to Hire Faster Without Breaking a Sweat
Resume Screening Reinvented: 9 Unconventional Strategies to Discover Top Talent Hidden in Plain Sight
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
