Professional film sets run on checklists. Pilots use them, surgeons use them, and filmmakers should too. Here’s every checklist you need.

Pre-Shoot Checklist (Night Before)

  • Batteries charged (camera, audio, lights)
  • Memory cards formatted and tested
  • Audio gear tested (record 10 seconds, play back)
  • Camera settings configured (frame rate, resolution, codec)
  • Lenses cleaned
  • Shot list printed or loaded on device
  • Call sheet sent to cast/crew
  • Food/water packed or ordered
  • Backup drive packed

Camera Pre-Flight (Before First Shot)

  • Frame rate set (24fps for cinema)
  • Shutter speed set (1/50)
  • White balance set and locked
  • Focus mode set to manual or locked AF
  • Picture profile selected (Log if available)
  • Audio input confirmed and levels checked
  • Recording format confirmed (4K, codec)
  • Test recording — play it back, check image and audio

FrameCoach walks you through this camera setup process, ensuring nothing is missed.

Scene Coverage Checklist

  • Master/wide shot (full scene)
  • Medium shot on each character (full scene)
  • Close-up on each character (full scene)
  • Reaction shots (both characters)
  • Insert shots (hands, objects, environment)
  • B-roll of location
  • Room tone (30 seconds of silence)

End of Day / Wrap Checklist

  • Review footage from final setups
  • Back up all footage to two drives
  • Charge all batteries overnight
  • Clean and store gear
  • Note any unfinished shots for next session
  • Send thank-you messages to cast/crew

Use Apple Notes, Google Keep, or any simple checklist app to run through these on set. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s not forgetting the basics while you’re focused on creative decisions.

More in our Filmmaker Tools hub.