Published: April 15, 2025 | Last Updated: April 22, 2025
What is an Abby-Singer shot? Definition & Meaning
The Abby-Singer shot is the second-to-last shot of the day on a film set. It’s named after legendary assistant director Abby Singer, who called out “two more” to give crews a heads-up to start packing up. That warning helped save time and keep productions running smoothly.
Named after the assistant director who became a low-key legend, the Abby-Singer shot is all about timing and logistics. When the A.D. calls out “Abby Singer,” it signals the second-to-last setup. The crew knows there’s just one more to go before wrap, so they can start breaking down gear, prepping the next location, or just mentally checking out.
Why is it called the Abby-Singer shot?
Abby Singer worked as an A.D. and production manager from the 1950s through the ’80s, and he got a rep for calling out the second-to-last shot so crews could work smarter. His little ritual shaved minutes off daily, adding up fast on set. Eventually, people started calling that penultimate shot the “Abby-Singer.” It stuck. Today, it’s used across film, TV, and even commercials.
What does it do?
The Abby-Singer shot sets up a smoother finish. You don’t want a whole crew waiting while lighting and grip scramble to tear down gear. Calling out the second-to-last shot gives everyone a heads-up. Wardrobe can prep returns, transportation can line up vans, and the camera can start wrapping non-essentials. It’s a time-saver, especially on big setups where striking gear takes a while.
Even though it’s just a cue, it shapes the pace of the final hour. On low-budget shoots, it can mean getting out before paying overtime. On union sets, it can stop a long day from turning into a longer night. Either way, it keeps the shoot moving without wrecking focus.
What comes after the Abby-Singer?
The very last shot of the day is called the Martini Shot — like the drink you’re about to earn. The Abby-Singer signals that you’re almost there, so the Martini feels more organized, not rushed. When used well, it helps wrap cleanly and protects your last shot from being sloppy due to fatigue or miscommunication.
Why does it matter today?
Modern sets run on tight timelines and tighter budgets. Calling out the Abby-Singer shot still matters because it buys minutes without cutting corners. Shaving five to ten minutes per setup is huge even on smaller indie sets, where you’re juggling three locations in a day. It’s a blend of old-school crew culture and smart time management that still earns its place in modern workflows.
Who calls the Abby-Singer shot?
Usually, the 1st A.D. or sometimes the 2nd A.D. calls it out over a walkie-talkie or in person. It’s often just a simple “This is the Abby Singer” said loud enough for key departments. Even a camera op or director might say it in tighter teams if it hasn’t been communicated yet. It’s not about hierarchy—it’s about clarity.
Here’s more walkie-talkie film set lingo you must know.
Summing Up
The Abby-Singer shot is more than a trivia fact — it’s a working part of set culture that helps keep everyone sharp and ahead of schedule. It’s the quiet MVP of the call sheet. Born from habit, it became tradition. And if you’re on a shoot where the crew nails the Abby-Singer call? You’ll feel it — smoother wrap, sharper shots, and a well-earned Martini at the end.
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