Scene Dept.Shape the story in scenes
Break the production into scenes with titles, locations, and an outline of the intended action, tone, and story beats. Insert and reorder scenes as the structure develops.
Connect your screenplay to the shots that tell the story
For a short film, sketch, or scripted video, the story and the coverage need to work together. Develop your scene intentions in an outline, write the action and dialogue, then plan the shots that bring each moment to the screen.
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How it works
Write action and dialogue
Add screenplay elements directly to each scene. Enter who is speaking with their dialogue, and use action, parentheticals, and transitions where they help explain the moment.
Work with both views
Use desktop Split view to keep the outline and screenplay beside each other with synced scrolling. Open the formatted screenplay preview as you edit. These documents share scenes, but changes to one do not automatically rewrite the other.
Build coverage and shoot efficiently
Add shots directly to each scene and tag their camera, lens, location, talent, props, and gear. Group them into production setups without changing narrative order, then record capture status and editor notes on the shoot checklist.
Example: a reveal and a reaction
Outline the surprise you want the audience to feel. Write the action that reveals it and the character’s response. Attach a wide shot, a detail of the reveal, and a reaction close-up to that scene. You can film matching camera setups together while the screenplay keeps the intended sequence.
Questions about scripted / narrative production
How is this different from Presenter-led?
Scripted / Narrative centers on scenes, action, dialogue, and planned coverage. Presenter-led centers on a continuous spoken script with numbered paragraphs and supporting visuals. You can enable tools from both workflows in one project.
Is screenplay formatting automatic?
Yes. Scene Dept. formats the scene headings, action, characters, and dialogue you enter. You supply the writing; it does not automatically turn your outline into a screenplay. The separate Screenplay formatting guide explains preview, cover pages, and exports.
Can I plan pickups outside the script?
Yes. Use B-roll for independent extras and pickups. Those shots still have production requirements and can participate in setups and batch shoots.
Does changing production order rearrange my screenplay?
No. Shots stay attached to their scenes. Setups and batch shoots organize filming separately from narrative order.
Put it to work on your next production.
Start with a free public beta account. No invitation required.