Shoot Your Shot! A Guide to Getting The Best Film Shot

September 24 2025, 5 min reading time

Creating a visually compelling film or television show begins with a well-planned shot list. Use these filming tips to plan your next project, helping you to experiment with different angles and techniques to find the perfect way to tell your story... afterall, the camera angle isn’t just about framing—it’s a storytelling tool!

Creating a visually compelling film or television show begins with a well-planned shot list. This list acts as a blueprint for your production, outlining the shots needed to tell your story. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or just starting, understanding camera angles and their impact on storytelling is key to creating high-quality content.

In this blog, we’ll break down a comprehensive shot list and provide camera tips to help you capture the perfect scene.

What is a Shot List?

A shot list is a detailed breakdown of every shot required for a scene. It includes information on the camera angles, movements, and framing, serving as a roadmap for directors, cinematographers, and camera operators. A well-organized shot list helps streamline production, save time on set, and ensure that nothing is missed.

Essential Shots for Film and Television

1. Establishing Shot

- Purpose: Introduces the setting or location of the scene.
- Camera Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture a broad view of the environment.
- Examples: A city skyline, a countryside landscape, or the exterior of a house.

2. Wide Shot (WS)

- Purpose: Shows the subject in full, along with their surroundings.
- Camera Angle: Position the camera at a distance to frame the subject from head to toe.
- Usage: Ideal for action scenes, establishing relationships between characters, or showing movement.

3. Medium Shot (MS)

- Purpose: Frames the subject from the waist up, focusing on body language.
- Camera Tips: Keep the subject centered and ensure a balanced background.
- Usage: Common in dialogue scenes or moments requiring emotional connection.

4. Close-Up (CU)

- Purpose: Highlights a subject's facial expressions or specific details.
- Camera Angle: Frame the face tightly, avoiding distractions in the background.
- Usage: Perfect for emotional moments or showcasing critical objects (e.g. a letter or key).

5. Extreme Close-Up (ECU)

- Purpose: Focuses on a small detail, such as an eye, hand, or an object.
- Camera Tips: Use a macro lens to capture fine details with clarity.
- Usage: Creates intensity or draws attention to an important element.

6. Over-the-Shoulder Shot (OTS)

- Purpose: Frames the subject from behind another character’s shoulder.
- Camera Angle: Position the camera slightly above and behind the shoulder.
- Usage: Common in conversations or confrontations.

7. Point-of-View Shot (POV)

- Purpose: Shows the scene from a character’s perspective.
- Camera Tips: Position the camera where the character’s eyes would be.
- Usage: Enhances audience immersion and understanding of the character’s experience.

8. Low Angle Shot

- Purpose: Makes the subject appear larger, stronger, or more intimidating.
- Camera Angle: Place the camera below the subject, looking up.
- Usage: Frequently used to emphasize authority or power dynamics.

9. High Angle Shot

- Purpose: Makes the subject appear smaller or more vulnerable.
- Camera Tips: Position the camera above the subject, looking down.
- Usage: Often used to depict weakness or isolation.

10. Tracking Shot

- Purpose: Follows the subject as they move through the scene.
- Camera Tips: Use a dolly, gimbal, or handheld rig for smooth motion.
- Usage: Ideal for chase scenes, character walks, or exploring environments.

11. Dutch Angle

- Purpose: Tilts the camera to create a sense of unease or tension.
- Camera Angle: Slightly rotate the camera so the horizon is not level.
- Usage: Often used in thrillers or dramatic moments to evoke instability.

12. Two-Shot

- Purpose: Frames two characters in one shot.
- Camera Tips: Use a medium or wide lens to ensure both subjects are clear.
- Usage: Effective for conversations or shared actions.

13. Insert Shot

- Purpose: Focuses on a specific detail within the scene.
- Camera Tips: Use a tight frame to isolate the detail.
- Usage: Highlights objects or actions that are critical to the plot.

14. Overhead Shot

- Purpose: Captures the scene from directly above.
- Camera Tips: Use a drone or crane for a clear top-down view.
- Usage: Perfect for choreography, battle scenes, or setting layouts.

15. Master Shot

- Purpose: Captures the entire scene from start to finish.
- Camera Tips: Use a static camera to ensure consistency.
- Usage: Serves as a backup and establishes spatial relationships.

Tips for Creating a Shot List

Start with the Script: Break the scene into beats and assign shots to each moment.
Think About Camera Movement: Consider how movement can add energy or focus to your shots.
Plan for Transitions: Ensure shots flow naturally into one another to maintain visual continuity.
Be Flexible: Leave room for adjustments on set based on lighting, space, or performance.

Why Camera Angles Matter

The camera angle isn’t just about framing—it’s a storytelling tool. The right angle can evoke emotion, reveal information, or shift the audience's perspective. By mastering angles and incorporating them into your shot list, you can elevate your filmmaking and deliver a visually engaging story.

Use these filming tips to plan your next project, and don’t forget to experiment with different angles and techniques to find the perfect way to tell your story. After all, the key to great filmmaking is knowing how to get the best shot!