How can you create a media production shooting schedule that meets your needs?

1 Define your scope

The first step is to define the scope of your project. What is the genre, format, style, and length of your media production? What are the main objectives, messages, and audiences of your project? How much money, equipment, and personnel do you have available? These questions will help you determine the feasibility, complexity, and requirements of your project, and guide your decisions on how to shoot it.

2 Break down your script

The next step is to break down your script into manageable units. A script breakdown is a process of analyzing your script and identifying all the elements that need to be prepared, such as locations, actors, props, costumes, special effects, music, and sound. You can use a script breakdown sheet or software to organize and categorize these elements, and assign them a code or color. A script breakdown will help you estimate the cost, time, and resources needed for each scene or shot.

3 Create a stripboard

The third step is to create a stripboard, which is a visual representation of your shooting schedule. A stripboard is made of strips, which are cards that contain the information of each scene or shot, such as the code, number, location, duration, day or night, and cast. You can use a stripboard software or a physical board to arrange the strips in the order that you want to shoot them, taking into account factors such as availability, continuity, efficiency, and logistics. A stripboard will help you see the big picture of your shooting schedule and make adjustments as needed.

4 Make a shot list

The fourth step is to make a shot list, which is a detailed description of each shot that you want to capture in your media production. A shot list includes the shot number, type, angle, movement, duration, action, dialogue, and notes. You can use a shot list template or software to create and organize your shot list, and link it to your script and stripboard. A shot list will help you communicate your vision to your crew and ensure that you don't miss any important shots.

5 Use a call sheet

The fifth step is to use a call sheet, which is a document that informs your cast and crew about the details of each shooting day. A call sheet includes the date, location, contact information, weather forecast, schedule, scene or shot numbers, cast and crew names and roles, equipment and props lists, and safety and emergency instructions. You can use a call sheet template or software to generate and distribute your call sheet, and update it as necessary. A call sheet will help you coordinate your team and keep them on track.