How can you write for different camera angles in a TV script?

1 Know the basics

Before you start writing for different camera angles, you need to know the basic terminology and conventions of script formatting. Camera angles are usually written in capital letters, followed by a colon, and placed on a separate line before the dialogue or action. For example:

INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

ANGLE ON: JOHN, sitting on the couch, watching TV.

JOHN

What a boring show.

You can also use abbreviations, such as CU (close-up), MS (medium shot), WS (wide shot), ECU (extreme close-up), EWS (extreme wide shot), etc. However, you should avoid overusing them, as they can clutter your script and limit the creativity of the director and cinematographer. Use them only when they are essential to your story or character.

3 Vary your angles

Writing for different camera angles can also help you create variety and contrast in your scenes, and avoid visual monotony. You can use different angles to change the pace, mood, and focus of your scenes, and to create transitions, suspense, or surprises. For example, you can use a wide shot to show the whole scene, then cut to a close-up to reveal a detail or a reaction. You can use a low angle to show a character's dominance, then switch to a high angle to show their downfall. You can use a moving or tracking shot to follow a character's movement or action, then cut to a static or still shot to show the result or consequence.

4 Balance your angles

While writing for different camera angles can be fun and creative, you also need to be careful not to overdo it. Too many camera angles can confuse or distract your audience, and make your script look like a shot list or a storyboard. You also need to respect the continuity and logic of your scenes, and avoid angles that are impossible or impractical to film. You should always remember that your script is a blueprint for your TV show, not a final product. Your main goal is to tell a compelling story with clear and concise words, not to dictate every camera angle. You should leave some room for the interpretation and collaboration of the director, cinematographer, and editor, who will bring your script to life on the screen.

5 Study the examples

One of the best ways to learn how to write for different camera angles in a TV script is to study the examples of other successful TV shows. You can read the scripts of your favorite shows, or watch them with the subtitles on, and pay attention to how they use camera angles to enhance their storytelling. You can also analyze how different genres, styles, and tones affect the use of camera angles, and how they create different visual languages and effects. You can also look for online resources, such as blogs, podcasts, or videos, that offer tips and insights on scriptwriting and camera angles.

6 Practice your skills

Finally, the most important tip on how to write for different camera angles in a TV script is to practice your skills. You can start by writing short scenes or exercises, and experiment with different camera angles. You can also rewrite existing scenes from other TV shows, and try to change the camera angles to create a different effect or meaning. You can also ask for feedback from other writers, directors, or cinematographers, and learn from their suggestions and critiques. By practicing your skills, you will develop your own style and voice, and become more confident and proficient in writing for different camera angles in a TV script.