Do you love to tell stories? A screenwriter creates scripts for commercials, television programs, films and/or stage productions. A screenwriter must be able to develop characters and plot accompanied by convincing dialogue. Many schools offer courses in scriptwriting for television, movies and theater, and there are countless workshops available in which to learn, discuss and network with other industry people.
Education Requirements:
Education and training don't necessarily make you more employable and seminars and workshops can be expensive, but both put you face to face with other industry folk and help with your networking. What matters ultimately is the commercial viability of a script. Take advantage of free screenwriting resources on the Internet, read books on screenwriting and study produced screenplays. Read, read, read! Build up your writing resume, explore internships and take jobs as a writer’s assistant. Building and maintaining a network of contacts is necessary and can be invaluable for getting a script read.
Job Prospects:
Screenwriting is highly competitive and relatively few attain positions of renown. Nevertheless, there is an inexhaustible market for new, creative screenplays that target a specific audience. Getting a job as a script coordinator on a TV series gets you in the writer's room and can lead to freelance scripts, story editing and a possible staff job in the future.
Earning Power:
Screenwriters in the WGC (Writers Guild of Canada) have their wages protected by guild rates. According to the Guild, the screenplay fee for 2003 was $45,450. The fee for an animated children’s TV script is approximately $3,000 and increases as you get into live action, with the biggest payday in live-action prime time content.
