Pre-visualization comes in different forms. Here’s when to use each one (and when to just wing it).
What’s the Difference?
Shot list: A written breakdown of every shot you plan to capture. “Wide shot of office, Medium CU on talent, Insert of hands typing.” Text-based, fast to create.
Storyboard: Visual representation of each shot. Sketches or reference frames showing framing, composition, and camera movement. Takes longer, but communicates the vision clearly.
When You Need a Storyboard
- Complex camera moves: If blocking and choreography matter, draw it out
- VFX-heavy shots: Post needs to know exactly what you’re planning
- Client approval required: Some clients can’t visualize from text — show them pictures
- Large crew: Storyboards keep everyone aligned (DP, gaffer, AD, art department)
When a Shot List Is Enough
- Simple setups: Interview, product shots, basic coverage
- Experienced crew: Your DP knows what “medium CU, over-the-shoulder” means
- Tight timeline: You don’t have time to draw 40 frames
- Documentary/run-and-gun: You’re reacting to what happens, not scripting it
When to Skip Both
B-roll, behind-the-scenes, event coverage, anything where you’re capturing moments as they happen. A shot list would just slow you down.
How Detailed Should It Be?
Enough to keep you on track, not so much that it’s rigid. Good shot lists include:
- Shot number (for reference)
- Description (“Wide shot of kitchen, talent enters frame left”)
- Lens/framing (“24mm, wide, locked tripod”)
- Notes (“Wait for natural light, shoot at golden hour”)
Storyboards add:
- Framing sketch
- Camera movement arrows
- Lighting notes
Digital Tools
You don’t need to draw by hand. Tools like:
- Shot Lister: Mobile app for shot lists, syncs with your crew
- Storyboarder: Free tool by Wonder Unit, fast digital storyboarding
- Frame.io Camera to Cloud: Tag and organize shots on set in real-time
The Overhead
Creating detailed shot lists and storyboards takes time. Budget for it in pre-production. A solid plan saves time on set, but over-planning wastes time you could be using to solve real problems.
What We Do
Shot lists for almost everything. Storyboards only when the client needs visual approval or the project has complex blocking. And we always leave room to improvise — some of the best shots aren’t on the list.
Need help planning your next shoot?
Let’s talk. We’ll help you figure out the right level of pre-vis for your project.
