U-Save Scripting
Scripting your video project takes many aspects of the project into consideration.
Anticipated Length
The anticipated length of a production depends on several factors:
- Commercials
- Infomercials
- Kiosk and Trade Shows
- Speaker Support
- Corporate Image
- Website Development
- Training & Education
- Open Format
The Tempo of the Production
The tempo or mood of the video production should be stated as part of the script and where/if the tempo changes throughout the production, these changes must be noted. Where music is to be used as part of the production, the music should be selected before the final phase of production starts.
The tempo can be set and controlled in several ways:
- Strictly controlled by the text of the production - Many information driven productions do not depend on music to drive the point or goal of the production. These productions are "dry" but require the viewer to concentrate on the information given rather than draw on the emotions through the use of music.
- Strictly Music - Music drives the entire production using visual imagery driven by the tempo. This method usually requires an emotional attachment/involvement by the viewer.
- Mixture of text and music - Music is used to alter the tempo of the production while the text gives information to the viewer.
Continuity
When writing a script it is imperative that continuity be maintained. Avoid breaking the chronology (order of events) unless a special effect is being used.
Major Components of a Script
There are two major components to a video script:
- Body Text - can be used to describe the intent of the production where visuals only "drive" the production, and the actual script of the production including the transcription of any interviews used in the production.*
- Visuals - Reference video clips and graphic components and their relationship to the body text.
Scripts are generally divided into two columns, the left is reserved for visuals while the right is reserved for the body text referencing the video component in the left column, whether it be video, graphics, or animation.
* Caution should be used to be conservative in the use of text in a script, You must remember that there needs to be adequate video to cover the length of the text. Also remember that video productions are visual and therefore references to scenes or objects may require that they be visually represented.