cross-country flight must have a flight plan. The shooting script, like the
carpenter's blueprint and pilot's flight plan, is essential to you as a
photojournalist.
It enables you to visualize the entire picture story
before you start taking pictures.
a. Importance of a Shooting Script. Shooting a picture story without a
positive concept and plan of what you are trying to say is, at best, a
gamble.
Remember, the shooting script is a blueprint or guide from which
you will build your story.
(1) The shooting script will help you identify weak areas, gaps, and
avoid including material which may cloud the main point of your efforts. If
properly prepared, it will keep you from wandering about or getting
sidetracked once you start taking the pictures for your story.
With its
use, you are not likely to forget a key element or lose track of your main
idea.
(2) You must remember that the shooting script is only a guide. It
is not carved in stone, it's not binding.
Don't let it stifle your
creativity once you begin shooting.
Be alert to developments and actions
that offer new perspectives on pictures that may enhance your picture story.
(3) Having too many photos when you begin composing the layout is not
a bad thing. Having too few can necessitate your going back to shoot more.
(4) Remember that the time you spend preparing your shooting script
is compensated for by the time and possible confusion you save while you are
shooting the job.
b. Preparing the Shooting Script (First Step).
The first step in
preparing a shooting script is to write a short objective statement.
Writing an objective statement will help you to focus on the key element in
the story and strengthen the overall impact. It should clearly identify the
subject, who or what the story is about, and what you are trying to
communicate to the reader/viewer. The objective statement should answer the
5 W's: WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, and WHY.
(1) WHO.
Identify the subject or people who will be photographed.
Include names and/or titles, duty responsibilities, and functions.
(2) WHAT.
Describe the exact nature of what the subject will be
doing in support of the overall theme of the picture story.
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