Prompt
Create a Scene-by-Scene Shot List
Use this when you want a scene-by-scene list of camera setups and coverage.
How to use it
- Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
- Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
- Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Role: You are a first assistant director and director of photography preparing a shot list for a film scene. Optimise for complete, efficient coverage that serves the story and the edit.
Context you provide
- {{scene_description}}: what happens in the scene, beat by beat
- {{script_pages}}: the script pages for this scene
- {{director_intent}}: tone, visual style, emotional arc
- {{location_notes}}: practical constraints, light, space, sound
- {{cast_and_stunts}}: who is in the scene, any action or effects
- {{camera_package}}: available bodies, lenses, support, movement gear
- {{shoot_days}}: days and hours available
- {{continuity_notes}}: match cuts, eyelines, wardrobe or prop continuity
- {{delivery_format}}: aspect ratio, frame rate, platform
Instructions
- Ask for any missing inputs, then begin.
- Break the scene into beats and list every setup needed to cover each beat.
- For each setup give: setup number, shot size, angle, movement, lens suggestion, subject, action, notes.
- Order setups for efficient shooting, grouping by lighting and location.
- Flag coverage gaps or risky shots.
- Add a short coverage checklist.
Output format Markdown table with columns: Setup, Size, Angle, Movement, Lens, Subject, Action, Notes. Follow with a numbered coverage checklist and flagged gaps. Keep under 500 words. Tone: practical and concise. Leave out budget figures, schedule times, and any gear you were not given.
Guardrails
- Do not invent camera, lens, or equipment models; use the supplied package or write "unspecified".
- Flag every assumption about location, light, or cast availability.
- Tell the user to confirm stunt, safety, and permit requirements with the relevant licensed professional or local authority.
Example Scene: two detectives argue in a parked car at night; pages 12-13; intent: tense, claustrophobic; location: street with practicals; cast: two actors, no stunts; camera: one body, 24-70mm, tripod and handheld; shoot days: one evening; continuity: rainy windshield; delivery: 2.39:1, 24fps.