Free practical guide · Crew
How to keep a simple continuity log
Keep relevant visual and action details organised for the next take and the edit.
Follow the five steps below and use the matching free worksheet to record the decisions. Adapt the process to your project, crew and agreed production procedures.
Five practical steps
Step 1
Identify the take
Record the scene, shot and take reference using the production’s numbering system.
Step 2
Record matching details
Note action, props, wardrobe and dialogue details that need to carry across shots.
Step 3
Use clear references
Add permitted reference photographs with a matching identifier.
Step 4
Communicate changes
Tell the relevant department about differences before the next setup.
Step 5
Prepare the handover
Keep editorial notes and continuity references organised and accessible to the authorised team.
Original teaching example
A fictional dialogue scene
In take 2 the character holds a mug in the left hand and places it beside a red folder. Record the hand, mug position and action timing, with a permitted reference photograph matched to the scene and take.
This fictional example illustrates the process. It does not describe a Cineview client project or replace confirmed instructions for your shoot.
Before you share the plan
- Check the date, version and responsible contact.
- Separate confirmed details from open questions.
- Use consistent scene, shot or file references.
- Give actions a named owner and realistic deadline.
- Share only the personal information each recipient needs.
Ask the relevant department lead to check practical details. Keep older copies clearly marked and tell recipients when a revision changes something they need to act on.
Download your working document
Record details that need to match between takes and setups. The printable PDF and editable Word file are free, without sign-up. Word files also open in Apple Pages.
Plan your studio shoot
Explore film studio hire, photography studio hire and the equipment list. Planning documents are optional to share with Cineview. Contact the studio with your space, dates and equipment requirements.
Send this free resource to a colleague, your production team or a WhatsApp group.
Use and attribution
You may adapt our original worksheets for your own production planning. Keep the website credit when sharing an unchanged template. These educational resources are not legal, financial or safety advice. Film titles, story frameworks and third-party videos belong to their respective rights holders. Cineview Studios is not affiliated with those publishers, and inclusion does not imply endorsement.
References are provided so you can compare approaches and form your own view. Check the rights to any photographs, scripts, music or other material you put in a production. Protect personal information when sharing crew and cast documents.
