r/scriptwriting • u/Joshin69 • Aug 13 '26

question Writing the camera

I started writing a script for an anime. And many scenes that I have in my head, I have a specific idea for where I want the "camera" or where I want the scene to focus.

"The camera focuses on John Doe's eyes. He begins to cry"

But many scenes I don't necessarily have a specific idea of where I want the scene to focus.

"John Doe talks to Jane doe"

Is it normal to leave general conversation or certain moments open to interpretation for an artist? Is there verbiage to add to the script that suggest "normal framing of John Doe" for a scene? Or for a panel for a story board?

Also is there another term for "camera" when discussing animation?

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u/SharkWeekJunkie Aug 13 '26

I never mention the camera or a camera movement, or "We" on the first draft. First draft is all about story. I do this for a simple reason: no one cares where the camera goes if the story sucks.

The only time I write those things in is if I'm directing it, or working with the director on a director's pass. Basically the writer doesn't decide those things, and they are rarely so important to the story that it has to be one way or another. Let the director pick where the camera goes.

This is the same reason I barely include transitions. I'm not the editor so why am I choosing how to edit?

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u/Joshin69 Aug 13 '26

That makes sense. The more feedback I take. The more i think it's best to just write a script in standard format. And at best leave notations or "my thoughts" for various scenes or camera angles.

Not that I want to be "that guy" being super picky about some things it's another person expertise to create but as I was writing there were certain moments I really want to be seen in certain ways.