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Writing the Script
From Videojournalism: Multimedia Storytelling by Kenneth Kobre
Write for the Ear, not the Eye
Keep it simple and conversational
Let the pictures do the speaking.
Example- NOT: From watching his hard work at rehearsal, it is evident that Taylor is dedicated to the theater program.
BETTER: Taylor’s dedication shows… (video of Taylor)
Use the Active Voice
Active: Subject – Verb -- Object
Avoid the “to be” verb and use action verbs.
Example- NOT: The puppy was trained by Grace.
BETTER: Grace trained her puppy.
Use Ellipses to Mark Pauses
OK to pause to break up sentences.
Adds a dramatic emphasis. Let it breathe.
Example- NOT: Grace trained her puppy, but her parents learned lessons too.
BETTER: Grace trained her puppy…her parents learn lessons too.
Use Words to Introduce Characters
Use a line in the script to introduce important characters. Show introductory video of person
OK to use titles for ancillary characters.
When describing someone, title goes first, then the name.
Example: Trapeze artist Halley Smith shows off her…
Strength of Sentence is at the End
Final part of sentence has the most resonance.
Decide what you want to emphasize and put it at the end for maximum impact.
Example: NOT: In an instant, there was jeopardy for Peter’s dream.
BETTER: Peter’s dream was in jeopardy..in an instant.
Set up visuals. Don’t Describe them
Don’t describe what viewers can see for themselves.
Example: Story about a sheep dog whose rear legs are paralyzed, so he uses wheels for his legs while herding sheep
NOT: Duke uses a wheelchair to herd sheep.
BETTER: Duke goes to work for the cause.(over video)
SOT’s for emotion
Use SOT’s that are subjective, that give opinion or convey feeling.
Use narration for the facts.
NOT: Thirteen homes were destroyed and more were damaged…
BETTER: Even though we lost our home, we have a new appreciation for life.
Don’t Steal the Thunder from SOT’s
Set up the SOT so the character has the most powerful words.
NOT: Mary considers the damage minor, compared with losing someone she loves.
BETTER: Mary keeps everything in perspective. (Then let Mary tell how she is coping.)
Watch your Pacing
Keep the story moving along.
Pace stories in an appropriate and varied way. Moments of tension—quick lines. Moments of reflection – longer sentences with room to breathe.
Use short pops. Can even be everyday sounds. Door slamming, cash register sound, birds chirping
Other tips
Avoid clichés.
Use 3rd person narration. Stay objective.
Use analogies for large numbers. Example: bigger than three football fields.
Read it aloud before recording.