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Shot editor + 9 shot types

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Occasionally you need to specify a shot (e.g. "close-up on J. Doe's hand", "wide aerial"). Script Studio's Shot editor lets you embed shot markers for the director / DP to see.

Slima Script Studio Plan view as a visual reference; shot markers are inserted in Write view

When to use shot markers

Traditionally, scripts don't specify shots — that's the director / DP's job. But sometimes:

  • Key close-up (CU) emphasising something
  • POV shot emphasising a character's view
  • Aerial / wide to establish a scene
  • MATCH CUT for visual connection

These shots carry story meaning, so the writer can mark them.

Common shot types

Shot type Use
CU (Close-Up) Emphasise expression / object
ECU (Extreme Close-Up) Eyes / detail
MS (Medium Shot) Waist up
MCU (Medium Close-Up) Shoulder up
WS / LS (Wide / Long Shot) Full body / environment
EWS / ELS (Extreme Wide / Long) Landscape
OTS (Over-the-Shoulder) Two-character dialogue
POV (Point of View) What a character sees
INSERT Object close-up; see Insert Shot

Adding shots in Write view

Usually inline in a Description line:

SCENE 7 / INT. LIGHTHOUSE COTTAGE / NIGHT

J. Doe flips through a stack of old photos.

CU - PHOTO OF FATHER
A black-and-white photo: his father in front of the lighthouse.

He sets the photo down.

Or toolbar "Insert Shot" → pick shot type + description.

Shot marker vs Insert Shot element

Related but different concepts:

Shot marker Insert Shot element
Position Within description Standalone paragraph
Layout Inline caps All caps + indented block
Use Subtle direction Prominent cut to object / detail

See: Description / Transition / Insert Shot

Caveat

Overusing shot markers makes the script feel like a "shotlist" rather than a screenplay — generally discouraged in screenwriting circles.

Reserve shot markers for:

  • Shots carrying significant story meaning (CU emphasising antagonist's eyes; POV showing protagonist's blind spot)
  • Moments where visual humour / suspense requires it
  • Shots already discussed with the director and agreed to be in the script

For everyday shot design, leave it to the director / DP.

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