Best Shot List Software

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Shot listing is both a creative and practical process. The first step is to read the script and decide how you want to shoot it. Make a list of those shots and add details like the shot size, camera movement, stunt requirements, VFX, etc. Then, when you're ready to schedule your production, order the shots in the most cost-efficient way, which is almost always not in chronological order.

A storyboard is a series of images in story order that illustrate the different shots in a given scene.

A shot list is a text-forward document that lists each shot along with technical details and estimated prep and shoot times.

As you read your script, think about what shots you would want to have in the finished scene. Then, all you have to do is make a list of those shots, with as many details as you want. 

Process-wise, shot listing a short film is no different than a feature film. You still need to choose and organize the shots you intend to get on set, ordered in the most cost-efficient shooting schedule.

There are two main functions of a shot list. First, it is how the director and their team decide on the shots ahead of production. This way, they can arrive on set with a plan and waste no time deciding what to do. Second, it helps the team create a shooting schedule that is both practical and cost-efficient. By bundling shots based on aspects such as location or time of day, precious time and money are saved.

No, in almost all cases, the most efficient shot list is never in narrative chronological order. This can be confusing at first, when you end up shooting the first and last scenes on the same day, for example. But time and money are critical in these productions, so shooting out of order is one way to minimize costs.