Screenwriter

A screenwriter, also called a scriptwriter, is a person who writes screenplays on which mass media such as television programs, films, video games or comics are based. It is generally a freelance profession, and no education is required, although there are programs and schools available that can help enhance your screenwriting abilities. Once you get established, you can choose to write screenplays based on a variety of genres and topics.

Education

It is important for new writers to develop a basic understanding of screenplays, dialogue, and the rhythm of a movie script. This requires research. Story Structure by Robert McKee and Screenplay by Syd Field are two excellent books to help you get started. You will also want to collect screenplays, especially those that are in the same genre you want to write in. For example, if you want to write a drama, collect as many drama scripts as you can find. You will also want to attend a writing class or enrol in a writing program. The University of Southern California offers an excellent screenwriting program (https://cinema.usc.edu/degrees/minor/screenwriting.cfm), as does Pace University in New York (https://www.pace.edu/dyson/academic-departments-and-programs/asds/?utm_source=REDIRECT&utm_medium=redirect&utm_campaign=redirect). It is important to start writing! Try writing a television spec script for a well-known TV show (write a new episode). If you are confident, trying writing something from scratch. It is important to keep writing, even if the dialogue isn’t working or the characters aren’t turning out in the way you hoped. First drafts of screenplays are usually weak, and they get better through rewrites. It is much easier to rewrite or rework an existing script than it is a blank page. After you’ve completed your script, give it to a few people whose opinions you trust to provide constructive criticism. You will then want to network to get your script to a producer or agent. Your script will not sell itself. It will take diligent networking to come across someone who will help you get your screenplay into the right hands.

Job Description

Screenwriters either generate original content or adapt content for the screen from material like books. The process begins by brainstorming ideas and then following it up with in-depth research. For example, if you intend to write a courtroom drama, you will need to research certain courtroom procedures that relate to your script. A screenwriter is required to create a shooting script as well as a dialogue script. This includes specific shots, camera angles, and lighting. The screenwriter may end up re-writing a script several times over the course of production, with suggestions from the directors and producers. Freelance screenwriters can work in any environment they want. They are the most common kind of screenwriters. Some work for television studios however, often on certain television programs for an extended period of time (usually as long as the program lasts).

Pros & Cons

Screenwriters make a very nice salary. In 2011, the average salary was $100 000. They can also work almost anywhere, as long as they have access to a computer. The best ideas may come to you at 2 in the morning while watching television. The profession also provides a variety of genres you can work in. You can write either riveting dramas or epic fantasies, whichever you personally prefer. You also have the opportunity to work as a freelance writer, giving you even more freedom to choose the jobs you prefer. The pay me be inconsistent however, especially if you work as a freelance writer. The lack of a bi-weekly pay check may be difficult for some people. There are salaried positions available but these usually require a college degree. Travel may be required for some interviews, and you may be required to create content within the specific requirements of certain clients, which can limit creative freedom.