Film Call Sheet Template
Value of a Film Call Sheet
Coordinating cast and crew on a film set — from call times to locations and departments — can be a major logistical challenge. That’s why using a well-structured film call sheet template is just as critical as a script breakdown or shot list when prepping your production.
To walk you through the process step-by-step, we’ll be using StudioBinder’s film call sheet software. That said, the principles outlined here apply universally—whether you’re using call sheet software or a downloadable Word, PDF, or Excel version.
Steps in this guide
Step 1
1. Add your shoot day info
The top portion of your call sheet for film template should include key production details: project title, production company, and contact info for key crew such as the 1st AD, unit production manager, or department heads.
In the middle or sidebar of your film call sheet template, be sure to add day-specific info like:
- Shoot Date
- Crew Call Time
- Weather Forecast
- General Schedule (e.g., call times, shooting start, meals, estimated wrap)
Whether you're using a film call sheet template Word file or a cloud-based system, this layout keeps everyone aligned.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Insert the logo of the production company on any project.
- Weather details update automatically based on location and date.
- Schedule agenda items and timing as needed.
Step 2
2. Enter location details
For a video production, the shoot location is crucial info for crew and talent. In this section, location details include:
- Location Name
- Location Address
- Parking Details (especially if parking is different from the shoot location)
- Location Notes (include a contact person if necessary)
- Nearest Hospital (ensure it has a 24-hour emergency room)
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Add locations manually or choose from previously used locations.
- Add detailed info for each location.
Step 3
3. Set the shooting schedule
Next comes the video shooting schedule for that particular day. This includes:
- Shot numbers
- Shot descriptions
- Talent
- Location
- Number of shots
- Indoor or Outdoor
- Estimated start times
- How long each shot is expected to take
While optional, providing an additional schedule for the following day—containing the same details—gives the talent and crew a helpful heads-up and is always appreciated, especially on bigger photoshoots.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Arrange set ups as needed using the drag and drop feature.
- Add an advance schedule for the next day's shoot.
Step 4
4. Add your talent and crew
This section is for listing your models' names, roles or poses, model ID numbers, status (SWHF), pick-up times if special transportation is needed, separate call times for hair & makeup, and call times to be on set.
Talent Statuses on a film call sheet are labeled as such:
- SW — starts work (first day)
- W — continuing work
- WF — finishing work (last day)
- SWF — starting and finishing work (only one day)
- H — holding for work, available but not working that day
Crew information is listed in a separate section, including names, roles or departments, and their specific call times. The crew grid is usually organized by departments which is convenient for larger photoshoots that involve different teams for camera, wardrobe, and make-up.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Auto-populate the cast from the shooting schedule and manually make adjustments if needed.
- Auto-populate your crew details from Project Contacts.
- Adjust crew info such as status and call times directly on the call sheet.
Step 5
5. Add department notes
This section is for adding department-specific notes, including props, set design, wardrobe, makeup, special effects, camera gear, and more. Different types of photography will entail unique requirements for different departments, so these notes help keep everything organized.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Manually add notes on the call sheet or automatically from tagged elements in a photoshoot treatment.
Step 6
6. Distribute and track the call sheet
Once the call sheet is finalized, it's time to get it into the hands of your collaborators and stakeholders. In commercial photography or editorial photography, clients may want to be on set as well. This is where a simple PDF call sheet is great to send to everyone that needs to be on set.
Ideally, all recipients should confirm they have received the call sheet for the photoshoot. Ask them to reply to the call sheet email or text/call the lead photographer or producer of the shoot to confirm.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Send call sheets via email or text message.
- Message all recipients of a specific call sheet simultaneously.
- Track call sheet status for each recipient.
- Identify and fix bounced emails.
Conclusion
Call sheets are sent
Congratulations, your call sheet is now sent! Want to dive deeper into photoshoot preparation? Don't miss our articles on how to storyboard photography, photography genres, and more. Prepare yourself for your next photoshoot!
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