#shotlisting

The number one rule to remember when creating and labeling the shotlist is to shoot out by angles first. Unfortunately, you will find that trying to shoot a scene that is not handheld/steadicam in chronological order will take WAY TOO MUCH time. Every time you change an angle, you're looking at either an art or lighting reset. It's easier to change the lens than it is to change the lighting, so shoot out your angles first.

The second rule to remember is to be as specific as you can be. You're the DP. You're the director. Tell me what you want and how you want it as much as you can visualize so I can arrange for the proper rigging to happen. I have no problem with a long steadicam through two hallways into a bedroom, but I will need to know that's what you're looking for so art department can dress and lighting and sound can set their equipment and PAs can make sure those pathways are free of equipment and non-scene people. You see? There's more to film than just you. You have a team and the more detail you give the team ahead of time to prepare, the better the result. That's not to say you won't come across shots on the spot that you'd love to have, but it gives us a better idea of where you will be and gives us more room for spontaneity. 

The third rule to remember is... do not use the letters "I" or "O" because they look like 1's and 0's on the slate.

The fourth rule is... don't do this without your AD. They will help keep it focused.