Once a screenplay goes into production, the director creates the shot list, which is a written list of the intended shots for each scene. The list describes important elements that necessary for a successful production. The major elements of the shot list include:
camera framing: What is the distance from the camera to the subject?
camera angle: The angle the camera is placed in relation to the subject.
script description: Written notations that are transcribed from the script into the shot list. Script notes assist the director in identifying the placement of the shot in relation to what is happening in the screenplay.
If a film’s budget is tight, the director is not likely to plan ambitious camera moves that require crane and/or dolly rentals.