Build a multi-shot list

A shot list turns a location into a sequence. For a short piece, four shots are usually enough: establish, approach, detail and exit.

A four-shot sequence

Vary the size and direction

• Do not cut from wide to wide; change the shot size.
• Keep movement direction consistent unless the cut is meant to surprise.
• Give each shot a clear start and end frame.
• Plan one shot that can be cut short if the schedule slips.

Keep the list practical

For each shot, note the location, the subject, the movement, the start/end frames and the risk. A list with four achievable shots is better than ten ideas that cannot be flown safely.

Why this works

A sequence is an argument. The establishing shot sets the context, the approach introduces the subject, the detail provides evidence, and the exit gives the viewer somewhere to go. Each shot earns its place.

Common mistakes

• Too many establishing shots. One is enough; move to the subject.
• No detail shot. The sequence stays abstract.
• An exit that repeats the opening. End on a new relationship or a wider context.

Try it yourself

Build a four-shot list for a thirty-second piece about downtown San Francisco. Fly each shot once and capture the poses. Success is four clips that could be cut together without repeating a frame.

Related guides

• Plan an event shot
• Write a one-page shot brief
• Composition and visual storytelling