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PART I INTRODUCTORY BEFORE taking up the study of photoplay writing, it is necessary to know what the photoplay is and something of the business in general. This brief division will give the student a survey of the field and some knowledge of studio needs and methods. It is not intended to be complete and exhaustive. This, if properly done, would constitute a volume in itself, and those who are interested are referred to works dealing with this subject alone. It should be borne in mind, however, that too close a study of production from books is more apt to be hurtful than helpful. A thorough and mtimate practical knowledge of the studio is helpful, but it must be gained through constant presence in the studio and not merely from a few visits. Unless one knows thoroughly the methods of work there is danger that a half knowledge will'work against the best efforts of the author. The study of photoplay acting in so- called schools will not be helpful in the slightest degree and, unless the student has actual employment in the studio, it is best not to make an exhaustive study of production methods, but to con- centrate upon the writing of good plays. It is not for the author to worry as to the precise manner in which an effect is to be produced. It is his duty to indicate the effect desired and to leave the rest to the director and his camera staff. CHAPTER I IXTRODUCTION BEFORE taking up the study of the technique of the photoplay, learn clearly what technique is. Technique is not, as many sup- pose, the code of rules for mechanical form. That is a part of technique, but by far the least important. The manner of writing down music is a part of the technique of composition, but the same notation is employed for the jingling song of the street and to ex- press the musical thoughts of master minds. Both look alike, but prop- erly interpreted, one shows the work of a genius and the other that of a charlatan. Both look alike, but only one is a masterpiece. 2. It is precisely the same with photoplay. Any person of average intelligence can quickly master the simple rules of form and prep-