What is Script Writing?

A production script is a word document that outlines and describes your video project. In other words, it helps establish the purpose and process of your upcoming video. For a more official definition, Wikipedia describes script writing as a document that outlines every aural, visual, behavioral, and lingual element required to tell a story. Planning and preparing for a production project is a lot more work than many realize. This is why an effective script that outlines your project will inevitably help you produce a quality video. In order to understand this process a little further, I’ve broken script writing down into two elements

The Story Structure.

The structure pertains to the actual story itself. No matter what channel you’re using, if you want to promote an effective video, it needs to incorporate a storyline. Some questions you can ask are: What happens in the beginning and what is the plot or purpose? How is the plot relevant to brand objectives or consumer needs? What type of conflict do you want to portray and how do you plan on overcoming it?

Organizing actors, happenings, expressions and outcomes also play a large part in the clarity of your production. Similar to a box office hit, short videos need to make sense. Also known as a “screenwriting,” this process forces you to organize your media presentation in story form so that it causes an emotional response or reaction by the audience. Once you solidify the storyline, you”ll want to expand on the action within.

The Visual Action.

A production’s visual action overview is one of the most overlooked aspects of script writing. Although most video projects incorporate a script, some wait to determine the video’s elements until the day of the shoot. There is no right or wrong way, but if you’re just starting off, then I’d recommend mapping out every scene beforehand. This is where you literally narrate movement, attitudes, actions, and dialogues.

You’ll want to describe interactions in detail to reassure your message is getting across. Furthermore, this is where you go into detail about, camera angles, lighting, scene moods, locations, and other varying factors. Meshing all of these variables together forms an effective script writing process. As you can tell, this is completely different from any other form of content – and far more complex. Instead of telling a story like a blog, you’re now showing your audience the story by using an effective script. Expanding on the visual shots beforehand will definitely give you an advantage.

The Benefits of Script Writing for Video Production.

As aforementioned, your production script is essentially the blueprint of your video. Planning ahead reassures your ability to get your vision across in an effective manner. Aside from a thorough strategy, a professional script writer also makes sure the cast feels and acts out the script instead of just reading their lines. They have a keen ability to communicate with the cast and understand how certain viewpoints and angles improve audience perception.

Having solid leadership that ensures cohesion will eliminate excuses or error on production day. A strong process also allows directors to be more direct and critical throughout filming. The main benefit of a good script writer, is that they’re able to guide you through the process while paying attention to the fine details that can inevitably distract viewers from the video’s purpose.

Writing Out a Video Script is Bigger Than Producing Something “Cool”.

Here are some of the main advantages of hiring a creative director to write your production script.

1. Strategic Writing. Hopefully this blog has helped you understand the amount of strategic detail that goes into video production. When media is speaking to a specific audience or relaying a certain brand, this is essential. Not only is a story needed, but it needs to tie into the brand or audience’s values. Most script writers have advertising and marketing experience, so this comes natural to them and they’re able to communicate in a number of ways effectively. Let’s remember that a script isn’t written to be read, it’s written to be performed.
2. Less Time Filming. As most projects, improved planning creates a better process. This is even more true in the production realm. Preparing contingencies for weather help avoid setbacks while a thorough projection establishes cohesion. A script writer understands all of the things that can go wrong as well as every scenario that needs to be planned for. Quality production creates a seamless process with less stress and more action throughout filming day. This gives the business owner more time to focus on other aspects of the company that require their attention.
3. Creative Outcome. Experienced copywriters tend to have a knack for telling good stories. After all, this is their profession. Hiring someone to write your script not only saves you time, but creates a peace of mind that everything is under control. An understanding of the process increases one’s ability to be more creative and produce something that’ll engage, or catch the eye of ideal consumers.
4. Less Money Spent. When filming a video, you not only have to consider the time it takes, but the amount of money you pay everyone involved. Investing a little more on the front end to establish an outline projection sets the parameters of the project and ensures you don’t go over them.
5. More Money Earned. This is border line common sense. A professional production script will allow you to develop and promote a higher quality video with a more substantial message. The better your storyline resonates, the more trust you generate towards your brand. Entertaining users creates a sense of intrigue that leads to store visits and potential loyalty.
6. Production Satisfaction. Not only will a written script improve the video quality, but it creates a positive experience for everyone involved. A poorly planned video project can create a lot of stress or frustration quickly. Taking the time to ensure everyone is on the same page and everything is mapped out relays a sense of professionalism that’s appreciated. Not only will participants look forward to working with you again, but they’ll respect the amount of preparation you placed in the project so they could experience a peace of mind.

Concluding the Script Writing Process.

Content and copywriters have a passion for what they do. Not only do they understand how to position brands so their audience is reached, but they understand all of the work that goes into an effective presentation. If you’re on the fence with hiring a production script writer then consider the ramifications of avoiding one. Creating a video is an expensive project, but promoting low quality media can be brand damaging. Either way, good luck with your process and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.