10 Tips in Planning a TV Commercial Shot List

A shot list is almost certain to come up at some point in the production of a TV commercial. If it doesn’t, then you’re either working with someone that’s never produced video before or they don’t really know what they’re doing–both are not ideal! Once the storyboard and script are prepared, the shot list will become the next big pre-production planning event to tackle.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Define Scene

First and foremost, before you produce the shot list for your commercial, make sure that you have defined each and every scene. Number them to keep them in chronological order.

2. Define Shot Number

Each shot for each scene will have a number, 1 to infinity. Make sure that you have properly numbered the scene, and the shot, so that when production begins you know what do tackle when.

3. Provide Location

Your TV commercial shot list should provide details on your location or the location of the shoot. If filming inside or outdoors that, too, should be noted.

4. Include Shot Description

What’s taking place in the shot? What should the talent be doing in front of the camera? This is your shot description.

5. Framing Details

How should the camera man be focusing the camera? Is it a wide shot? A pan shot? A close-up? Framing details set the stage for the style of lens that the camera man will require for the shot.

6. Action Details

Perhaps more is going to happen than what is included in the shot description? Those actions should be included under action details. Consider any action that you expect the camera crew to take or to be occurring in the view of the scene.

7. Proper Dialogue

What is being said or spoken of during the shot? Providing proper dialogue that will offer clues as to where the shot will start, and end, in reference to the script is important. Make sure you include this when planning a TV commercial shot list.

8. Talent Details

What do you expect the actors to do? Which actors will be required for the shot? Listing the actors will ensure that when planning the production, all necessary talent is present.

9. Props Info

Your TV commercial shot list should outline details on props. If you require a couch or a bird cage or dinner plate, these props should be included in your shot list. Be as detailed as you can here to ensure the best outcome in production.

10. Notes

Every great TV commercial shot list has a place to reference additional notes. This is where you will include things that are important to you such as a tone or style of a shot or added elements. If you want to be dark, note it. If you want to be dramatic, not it. Including notes is important!