Embarking on a career in screenwriting can be rough. With all the worries and self doubt, it can cause many to quit. If you’ve ever started anything, you know there are a few essential things that it requires of you to have. In this post, I’ll tell you 3 things every screenwriter needs to help them begin as a screenwriter.
1. Portfolio
Every artist on the face of the planet needs a portfolio. Portfolios provide a space on the internet that’s all about you and your work. Whether it’s your blogs or your social media links, it’s a one stop shop for people to see your stuff. It’s an organized way for people to easily look at your work. It helps serve as a form of passive advertisement. Many jobs ask for a portfolio when you apply. Having a portfolio allows you to leave a link on their job board profile and people can check it out.
2. Writing Samples
It’s one thing to say you’re a screenwriter, but it’s another thing to actually show it. Most gigs ask for work samples or a portfolio which they assume will have your work samples. Writing samples show what you can do and people using the samples can decide whether you’re right for the project. This is why it’s important to always be writing and honing your craft. The more you write the better you’ll be. You want to be able to put together a compilation of your best work in a scenario where you’re applying for a job or a gig.
3. Logline
In case you don’t already know, a logline is a short summary of your script in one or two sentences. It’s got to be catchy enough to intrigue people. If you ask for professionals for coverage or feedback on a script, they’re likely to ask for the logline first. You don’t want to be caught with your pants down. That’s happened to me both figuratively and literally; it’s not good. Be prepared and don’t look like an amateur. Loglines are a roadmap for your writing and can get people interested in your project. They can serve as pitches to suits and agents with very little time on their hands so they’re very useful in a time crunch.
When starting your journey as a screenwriter, these are the 3 things every screenwriter needs.
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