The Ultimate Guide to a
TV Commercial Call Sheet

Creating an effective TV commercial call sheet is the cornerstone of professional video production. It’s the single document that translates your creative vision into an actionable, logistical plan. At IRPR Agency, with our base in Pune's bustling Hinjewadi tech park and creative studios in Koregaon Park, we've refined our call sheet process over 500+ campaigns to ensure absolute clarity for every stakeholder, from the client to the grip department.

The first step is gathering all foundational information. This includes the confirmed script, shooting schedule, location permits, and full cast and crew lists with their specific roles. For a TV commercial, this also means integrating brand guidelines and any mandatory legal disclaimers. Our production team in Kharadi specializes in synthesizing this data into a clear, hierarchical format that prioritizes the most critical information—call time, location, and scene details—at the very top.

Next, populate the call sheet with meticulous detail. The schedule should break down the day into segments: crew call, first shot, lunch, and estimated wrap. Location information must be exhaustive, including GPS coordinates, gate codes, and parking instructions for areas like Magarpatta or Baner, where access can be complex. We include a 'Notes' section for special requirements, such as child talent regulations or specific lighting setups for product shots, which is crucial for our FMCG and tech clients.

A professional TV commercial call sheet template, like the free one we provide, includes visual aids. Attaching storyboard frames or reference images next to the scene description eliminates ambiguity. For complex shoots, we add a 'Day Order' page that lists scenes in the sequence they will be shot, not the script order, optimizing for location and daylight. This level of planning is why brands from Hadapsar to Viman Nagar trust IRPR for stress-free, efficient productions.

Finally, the call sheet is a living document. It must be distributed 24-48 hours before the shoot and a 'call sheet update' email must be sent for any last-minute changes. At IRPR Agency, we use a combination of digital tools and printed copies to ensure everyone, from the director to the runner, has the latest version. This rigorous approach to the humble call sheet is what separates a good commercial shoot from a great one, ensuring your brand's message is captured perfectly on time and on budget.