Many newbie screenwriters use times of day other than DAY or NIGHT in their scene headings.
It looks unprofessional.
DUSK and DAWN are not used in spec scripts by beginning screenwriters unless the kiss by sunset is essential to understanding the story. Filming exteriors with this light is just too expensive because the window of opportunity is so short.
Using the scene heading to help the reader understand when exactly in the day the scene takes place, is really cheating. How do you SEE the difference between MORNING and LATE MORNING on the screen? If the viewers can’t tell, the reader shouldn’t either. If it is essential to the story, present this information visually or in dialogue. The audience won’t see your slug line after all.
If you found this tip useful, check out the Screenplay Checklist, an A-Z of commonly made mistakes by aspiring screenwriters.
Once you have written your screenplay, make sure you keep the reader hooked by eliminating all the errors that would distract from an enjoyable experience.
Check this 12p. list of errors and annoyances to perfect your spec screenplay.
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Karel Segers wrote his first produced screenplay at age 17. Today he is a story analyst with experience in acquisition, development and production. He has trained students worldwide, and worked with half a dozen Academy Award nominees. Karel speaks more European languages than he has fingers on his left hand, which he is still trying to find a use for in his hometown of Sydney, Australia. The languages, not the fingers.
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