What is a shot list and what is its role in preproduction?

• A. A list of cast members and their call times.
• B. A detailed catalog of planned shots with camera angles and movements; guides production and ensures coverage and pacing.
• C. A budget outline for set construction.
• D. A script synopsis.

Answer: (B)

Translating the script into a concrete, camera-focused plan for filming. A shot list is a detailed catalog of planned shots that specifies how each moment will be captured—camera angles, shot sizes, movements, and sometimes lens choices. In preproduction it acts as the visual blueprint for the shoot, guiding the director and cinematographer and the whole crew on what to shoot, the order, and how each shot will contribute to coverage and pacing. It ensures that all important actions, reactions, and transitions are planned so editors have sufficient material to assemble the scene smoothly and maintain rhythm. It also helps with scheduling and coordination across departments since everyone knows what the camera will do in each setup. The other options describe separate documents: one lists cast members and call times, another outlines costs for set construction, and another is a script synopsis; none provide the camera-specific, shot-by-shot plan that a shot list offers.