Shot editor + 9 shot types
Lectura de 4 min
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.
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.
Related
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