Introduction:
Creating a shot list is a crucial aspect of planning scene coverage. I need a shot list as a Fight Choreographer; because I like see the action sequences.
The shot list includes camera setups and angles for each scene, based on actors' blocking and planned camera positions on paper. It helps me work with the Director in terms of ideas for lenses.
The goal is to establish the number of setups for each scene, indicating the times the camera needs repositioning. This process aids in formulating a preliminary shooting schedule and estimating the required days for movie production.
Shot List Creation:
Use vertical lines drawn through the scene with a pencil and ruler to identify the coverage of each camera setup.
Write the setup name in the margin next to each line. See above
Example shot list for a scene:
Shot 1: Master shot of entire scene
Shot 2: MS OTS (medium shot, over the shoulder), Roger at table, x2 (two frame sizes from the same camera position)
Shot 3: MS OTS, reverse, Kitty at table, x2
Shot 4: Insert of the woman’s wine glass
Shot 5: Dolly into waiter
Collaborative Process:
Once the shot list is complete, collaborate with the director of photography and first assistant director.
Build a rough shooting schedule to assess whether the budget allows for all proposed setups.
Be prepared to consolidate or reduce setups and eliminate complex camera movements like dollies, cranes, or jib shots if necessary. When this items come into play its a whole new ball game.
Location Scouting:
During location scouting, utilize the shot list to determine the actors' final blocking and camera positioning.
I love the shot list because if we are there is a Deli scene in the film. We want to shoot all the Deli scenes in a given day. Just my style. Its smart to do that.
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This is awesome Mario Leone - anatomy of a shot all in one graphic. Very cool!
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I wanted to illustrated it. That is a single shot. You can go as far as putting lens type as well. I create my own for choreo scenes.
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I may use this for my short film if that's OK, Mario Leone.
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Absolutely. And you know if I’m able to help you. We can do a zoom together. I’d love to help you out. You retain creative control. I support you.
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What an amazing offer, Mario Leone. It may be a while but I will certainly keep you in the loop. Thank you so much. What a gent.
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Thank you for sharing. I love the attention to details.
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That’s my style. I look for opportunities to make things more creative along the way. I think Bob Ross called them. Happy accidents..
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Learned a lot here, thanks for sharing!
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Great to know
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Great share, Mario Leone!