Build A Shot List Template For Every Recurring Format On Your Channel

Most channels rely on a few repeating formats. Reviews, tutorials, breakdowns, vlogs, challenges, behind the scenes. Yet many shoots still run on memory. That is how you end up missing cutaways, detail shots or reaction angles you really wanted. Shot list templates give each format a default plan so you can focus on performance instead of trying to remember everything.

TL;DR

For each recurring format, write a reusable shot list that covers intros, main beats, details and safety shots. Print or load it on your phone and tick as you go.

Map your main recurring formats

Start from what you already make often.

List the formats that appear on your channel at least once a month.
Give each one a simple name, such as review, tutorial or storytime.
Pick one or two core formats to start with, not everything at once.

These are the formats that deserve their own templates.

Break each format into sections

Sections make shot planning easier.

For a review, sections might be intro, overview, key features, test, verdict and call to action.
For a tutorial, sections might be hook, result preview, step by step, recap and next step.
Write these sections in the order your videos usually follow.

Each section will get a short list of typical shots.

Define must have shots for each section

Must haves are the shots you always miss when you forget them.

For each section, list shots like main angle, key detail close ups and context b roll.
Add any cutaways that help you cover mistakes or reduce jump cuts.
Mark absolute essentials with a symbol so you notice if they are missing.

The aim is to cover your bases, not to plan every frame.

Add safety and backup shots

Safety footage saves bad takes.

Include a few neutral shots, such as hands, environment or simple reactions.
Note at least one backup angle for the main talking position.
Add a short reminder to grab ten to fifteen seconds of room tone for audio fixes.

These extras give you options in the edit.

Turn lists into a simple checklist layout

Checklists make templates usable on set.

Put format name at the top, sections as headings and shots as tickable lines.
Keep the whole template on one page if possible.
Use plain language so you can scan it quickly while you are busy.

You can keep this as a PDF, note or printed sheet.

Use templates during real shoots and refine

Reality will show you what is missing.

Bring the template to your next shoot for that format and tick as you go.
After the edit, add any useful shots you wished you had and remove ones you never use.
Repeat this for a few rounds until the template feels tight and realistic.

Your goal is just enough structure to feel safe.

Practical checklist for shot list templates

List your main recurring formats and choose one or two to start with.

Break each chosen format into simple sections that match your usual flow.

Write must have and safety shots for each section in plain language.

Turn the plan into a one page checklist that is easy to scan on set.

Use the template on a real shoot, then adjust it based on what you missed or never used.

Create and refine templates for other recurring formats as they prove themselves.

When you build a shot list template for every recurring format on your channel, you remove a lot of mental load from shoot days. You free up attention for performance and story instead of worrying about whether you remembered everything important.