Question:
How do I market?
Conference
Writers' conferences are great places for writers to network—and networking can help you in many ways. Screenwriting conferences are not limited to Southern California. Whether or not your region has a screenwriting conference, attend other types of writers' conferences. Go and network with all types of attendees—not just writers, and not just decision makers (because you never know who might help you in the future).
Festival
Sure, film festivals are about screening great—or at least interesting—films, but the best ones have special events for attendees—panel discussions on screenwriting, for example. No matter the film festival you attend, look for all chances to professionally exchange contact information with (hopefully) industry professionals, and also other aspiring screenwriters. Network! Self-promote! Self-promote! Network!
Volunteer in the Industry
One way to connect in film is to volunteer in the industry. Help promote your local film festival or writer's conference. Search for opportunities in indie filmmaking (where any compensation is often deferred) in your area. You will meet people. If you do a great job, you can easily stay connected to anyone you meet. A connection made at a festival could lead to an introduction to a producer, for example. Who knows? Get out there and try!
Competition
Screenplay competitions can give you the chance to see how your writing fares against that of other new writers—often thousands. Some competitions put the winners' work before industry eyes. When comparing competitions, research for those that give you the best potential reward for your time, money (spent on entry fees and materials), and genre, and only send your best work. A good place to start your research is Done Deal, which maintains a list of screenwriting contests.
Find a Writers' Group
Egos can be tough to tolerate. And groups of artists often present significant ego-related challenges. Still, wading through a sea of egos to discover the best writers' group for your personality has the potential to improve your writing, help you make friends, and get you connected to potential future screenwriting opportunities. If you cannot join a group near you, search the Internet for kindred spirits.
Screen Writing Frequently Asked Questions
How do I follow screenplay format?
How do I dream up a movie idea?
How do I obtain representation?
Do I have to move to Hollywood?
How do I make a story believable?
How do I add direction to dialog?
How do I get input on my writing?
How do I stay focused on my writing?
What is important to remember regarding creativity?
How do I get into screenwriting?
Do I need to rewrite after my first draft?
What is the upside of the writer´s life?
How do I keep the audience´s attention?
What will I write for Hollywood?
What shows may educate me about screenwriting?
How do I write shots and camera angles into my scripts?
What is my role as a screenwriter?
What would I offer Hollywood as a screenwriter?
How do I use writing to get into acting?
How do I keep the reader reading?
How do I indicate voiceover, or off screen dialog?
Where can I see movies or shows made from good scripts?
How do I give copyright notice?
How do I keep readers interested?
What festivals should I attend?
Where else can I learn more about screenwriting?
Where can I find exposure for my writing?
An agent has asked me to write a "Blurp/Logline" about my screenplay. What is a Blurp/Logline?
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| Sherril Steele-Carlin |
