Writing For TV

 Writing for TV was definitely a challenge. I found myself having to constantly remind myself not to add too much description. Also having to match my script to visual shots was a challenge. You obviously don't want to completely distract the viewer from what you are saying but at the same time, you don't want to bore them to death. With the help of a visual aid, timing is also really important. Timing, vision and words must all become in sync. (Lamble 2011)

When it came to writing the script, my assignment partner and I became stuck on how to start. We weren't really sure if we should write a script first and then add images to it or if we should start editing first and then add some script in later. We decided to ask for some advice from Warren, one of the tech guys that has had a lot of experience in the media. He advised us that it would be a better idea to pick what grabs we wanted first and then write a script around that. After all, we didn't want to write a script and find that it's too long to fit into the package. It definitely helped doing my first video news story on blood. That way it was almost impossible to pick less serious cover shots. I think if I had of done the story on the RSPCA I probably would have found myself filming cute puppies and kittens which would have taken away from the potential seriousness of the story. The last thing I wanted was the lines between entertainment and news to be blurred.

References

Lamble, S 2011, News As It Happens: An Introduction To Journalism, Oxford, New York.