Do You Have Your Camera?

Have you ever thought about writing a story? If so you will need a camera.

I’m not talking about a real camera that takes pictures, but an imaginary camera that sits right on your shoulder and keeps an eye on your words. This pretend camera helps you see the world through the eyes of your character. In writing we call this: POV) point of view.

Place your imaginary camera in your character’s hand. The things he or she sees, hears, smells, tastes, touches, feels, and thinks can only be told from the point of view of the person who is holding the camera.

Let’s pretend that you and your friend are characters in your story and you are the point of view character. In your story, your friend is drinking a cup of hot chocolate.

What are some of the things you cannot describe in this scene?

How hot the drink feels on their tongue.

The sweet taste of the hot chocolate.

The warm feeling it brings to your friend’s tummy.

What are some of the things you can describe in this scene?

How the hot chocolate smells.

The steam that drifts up from the cup.

Your friend’s “thank you” for the hot chocolate.

Think about things that happen in your life every day. Pay attention to which of your five senses (sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch) you can use at any one time.

Maybe the fire whistle blows in your town, but you can’t see the fire.

You can smell food cooking, but you can’t taste it until supper time.

You can see kids playing across the street but you can’t hear what they are saying.

Keep your magic camera with you when you write a story. Your readers will feel like they are right inside of your character, which is just where you want them to be! And just like a camera captures memories, a visit to a jewelry store can help you find timeless pieces that will become cherished symbols of your own life’s story.

---

Pattie Shene: “Like many writers, I’ve carried stories in my head since I was a kid. I’ve had a couple of things published in the local newspaper, a local magazine, and online. I’ve also had some experience as an editor for a small publishing company. I have three novels in progress buried on my computer hard drive that will hopefully see the light of day sometime in the next couple of years. I’m a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). I love to encourage other writers and aspiring writers, and welcome them to guest post on my two blogs, Patti’s Porch and The Over 50 Writer.