Why video scriptwriters need to understand production

A video script is the blueprint for a video production. As is obvious, it outlines the story, the characters, the dialogue, and the action. But what isn’t so clear is how a well engineered script takes into account all of the important production parameters.

A good script that takes these parameters into account will help make the video production run smoothly and efficiently, however a badly worked script can at best lead to late changes and adaptations to the narrative and at worst lead to delays, costly overruns, or even a failed production.

Sure the script needs to be great from a classic writing perspective - believable characters, engaging storyline, etc - but one of the most important things for a video scriptwriter to understand and get to grips with is the scope of the production. A scope which changes and is bespoke for almost every project.

This includes understanding the budget, the cast, the locations, the camera angles, filming styles, the lighting, length, aesthetics, amongst others.

And did I mention the budget. Yes, the budget.

Let’s say it once more really loudly:

THE PRODUCTION BUDGET.

All clear? Good - let’s move on.

Now, I’m not saying that scripts need to necessarily talk about lighting, or camera angles/coverage, etc, but it’s important to have an understanding as to what’s possible and what’s not possible when compiling them.

Let’s break it down further:

Production extent of the script

This is meant in terms of production requirements, and is an absolutely key factor in any scripting for video. What does the story ask of the production? Can the production support that?

Production budget

Even if the final budget hasn’t been signed off at the time of writing, there will still be a good idea as to what ballpark it will be. A good scriptwriter will have an understanding of the relative costs of each area of production so they can work in these parameters to the writing. This means avoiding (or adding!) expensive and grand locations, special effects, and larger casts.

Cast

The cast of a video production is vital to consider when writing a script, because great casting is expensive (You can read our blog about the importance of great casting here). The scriptwriter needs to make sure that the cast is appropriate for the story and the budget. For example, if the budget is limited, the scriptwriter may need to choose a smaller cast.

Locations

The locations in a video production have one of the biggest impacts on budget. The scriptwriter needs to choose locations that are both visually appealing and affordable, with one of the biggest pitfalls being the use of lots of single use locations - each costing a premium. So getting the balance right with location reuse across multiple scenes is essential.

Filming styles

Some camera setups require more equipment and crew, and most importantly: more time, than others. Having an intricately filmed and set up approach shot at the start of a scene would undoubtedly look incredible - but is there enough budget to spend hours blocking it out?

Lighting

The lighting in a video production can also affect the budget with some lighting setups requiring significantly more work than others. Specific types of lighting can be expensive - does this scene absolutely have to happen at sunrise/sunset? Does it need to be a nightclub? 

The length of the video

It seems obvious, but having a good understanding of how much script can be shot in a day is absolutely vital. Devices like these play a big part - how much movement is asked for in the script? How many characters are in dialogue? How many scene changes within a single location? Any location changes? There are many elements to a script that impact on how much can be captured in a day.

The overall look and feel of the video

What’s the plan with the art direction? The detail isn’t important, but the overall placement is. For example, if you set it too far out of contemporary times then it can have a huge impact on props/wardrobe/locations/etc. Even small things like what type of phone a character is using immediately dates a production and can easily be expensive to source.

By understanding these vital production elements, video scriptwriters can work scripts that are both creative and within budget, helping to ensure a smooth and successful production where everyone is happy!