How to Subliminally Suggest Camera Shots in a Screenplay

Screenplays should never have anything resembling a camera shot in the action descriptions. This can prove to be a burden for writers who distinctly have a vision for certain parts. Read this tutorial to learn how to trick directors and producers into thinking they are coming up with a shot when they are really coming up with it based on your writing.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

How to Subliminally Suggest Camera Shots in a Screenplay

1. Think of how you see the shot playing out. Know exactly what type of shot, how long, what blocking, and everything else that will comprise the shot.

2. Never write the title of the shot. A script should never contain the words: Close Up, Wide, Medium, Over the Shoulder, Overheard or anything that blatantly describes a camera angle.

3. Avoid using the phrases "we see" and "we move." They both sound like demanding instructions and that defies the subtlety we need to achieve here.

4. Express the actions of the camera through the descriptions of objects from different angles. For instance, to describe a tracking shot where the camera moves behind a person walking to the window, use descriptions that discuss how the back of his head blocks the sunlight as he inches closer to the window. That gives the director only one choice on how to show sunlight and have a character's head slowly block it out.

5. Go easy with this. Simple CU's, Wide Shots, and Medium Shots do not deserve this trickery. Only utilize this for shots that you feel need to be in the film.