Researching an occupation

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David Kalver

Member
Does anyone have any advice on researching an occupation? such as lingo? but not even certain words, complete phrasing and the context in which its used.

Ive been watching alot of crime related films and the writer reflects the words and phrasing of various occupations, such as CSI, ATF, Hell Im sure most people her couldn't tell me the difference between a 'cop' and an officer, or detective etc let alone write as one. Its not so much dialouge im confused about as it is knowing certain situations. Situations that had you of known, would have triggerd alot better ideas.

Ive been down to my local police station and asked if I can interview someone about their work and the avaliable positions and had a few numbers but god knows what I can ask that will give me enough know how.:huh:
 
After you write it, bring it to an appropriate person (or people) and have them make suggestions of how to change it.
 
Thats kinda what I have planned, Know what the 'aim' of the scene is and what needs to be coverd within that scene first then fill in the details after. Its just annoying because you cant really just come up with any small talk, or use any of these roles as an advantage to the story unless you know the ins and outs of their job and how it fits in.
 
David Antony said:
Does anyone have any advice on researching an occupation? such as lingo? but not even certain words, complete phrasing and the context in which its used.


Ive been down to my local police station and asked if I can interview someone about their work and the avaliable positions and had a few numbers but god knows what I can ask that will give me enough know how.:huh:
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Call some of your local PD's and see if they have a ride-along program. LA County Sheriff used to have those. You'll learn a lot. It's atually a fun thing to do.
 
Go to the WGA website. They have a link under "writer resources" which will give you info on how to get in touch with all kinds of professionals (cops, FBI, psychologists, doctors etc), who are willing to help screenwriters with their work. I have used this a few times. One guy at a particular law inforcement agency was super helpful & I still email him whenever I need to pick his brain about anything I'm writing that involves crime. We are now on a first-name basis!
It's a great resource - better than just cold-call emailing a professional because at least you know from the outset that these guys are already willing to help.
Good luck!
 
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