Last Updated 3 months ago
Definition
The Abby Singer (or Abby Singer Shot) refers to the second-to-last shot of the day on a film or television set. It’s a traditional piece of production slang that signals to the crew that the end of shooting is near. This term comes from the name of a famous 1st Assistant Director who would warn the crew of the last two shots before moving on or ending the day. This originated from working in early television, where the crew would constantly be on the move throughout the day.
By announcing the Abby Singer, the Assistant Director helps departments prepare for wrap-out while maintaining efficiency and morale.
Origin of the Term
The phrase comes from Abby Singer (1927–2014), a respected 1st Assistant Director and Production Manager who worked extensively in television from the 1950s through the 1980s.
- The Habit: Singer would warn crews of the “next-to-last shot” so that grips, electrics, and camera assistants could begin packing gear or arranging for a company move while the final setups were still being filmed.
- Practical Purpose: Early television shows often had multiple company moves in a single day. Knowing they were on the second-to-last setup gave crews a valuable head start.
- Legacy: Singer’s time-saving practice became standard industry language, cementing the “Abby Singer Shot” as part of film set vocabulary worldwide.
How It’s Used Today
- When the 1st AD or director calls, “This is the Abby Singer!”, it signals there are two shots left in the day.
- Departments begin:
- Packing unnecessary gear.
- Returning unused equipment.
- Organizing carts, trucks, and staging areas.
- Preparing for either wrap or a company move.
- The announcement also serves as a morale booster—crew members know the end of the day is near.
Related Term: The Martini Shot
The Martini Shot immediately follows the Abby Singer.
- Abby Singer Shot: Second-to-last shot.
- Martini Shot: Last shot of the day—so named because “the next shot will be out of a glass.”
These two terms are often called out together, creating a rhythm that keeps the crew focused during the day’s final moments.
Why It Matters
The Abby Singer tradition highlights the Assistant Director’s role in communication and efficiency:
- Time Management: Gives departments a head start on wrap without slowing production.
- Crew Morale: Lets everyone know the finish line is in sight.
- Cultural Legacy: What started as one AD’s smart time-saving habit has become a lasting piece of film industry culture.
For many crew members, hearing “This is the Abby Singer” sparks both relief and renewed energy to finish strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Abby Singer?
Abby Singer was a veteran 1st Assistant Director and Production Manager known for his efficiency and leadership. He worked on classics like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, St. Elsewhere, and Hill Street Blues.
Do all productions use the term?
Yes. The Abby Singer is universal film set lingo, used on union and non-union productions around the world.
Is the Abby Singer always called out?
On most professional sets, yes. Even if the AD doesn’t announce it, many crew members will informally call the second-to-last shot the “Abby Singer.”
What comes after the Abby Singer?
The Martini Shot, which is the very last shot of the day.
Related Terms
- [Martini Shot] Final shot of the day.
- [Assistant Director (AD)] The department responsible for scheduling and communication.
- [Working as a 1st Assistant Director]
- [Working as a 2nd Assistant Director]
- [Company Move] When production shifts location during the same day.