How do I get an image to flash onto the screen for a split second?

[Aldenard]

Like in horror movies, where somethign will flash for just a second. How do I write that into a screenplay?

[StephieM]

My first response would be...if you're not the director, don't worry about it.

But, if you feel it would add to your script, I would go with something like...

A flash of Dracula's FACE, ghostly white with coal black eyes.

or

The moon glimmers briefly on a an AXE as it raises over Jessica.

It's hard to say without knowing the circumstances surrounding it.

Steph

[scripter1]

Steph's pretty much got it.

Write it exactly the way it would appear on the screen.

Remember Steph, the director is using the script as the blueprint. You can't just leave certain things out. Some times you can, sometimes you can't.
In the case of a horror script these kinds of flashes of action set up the most suspensful moments of the film. They are what make us jump in our seats.
If they are lacking in the script then the story will seem to be lacking true horror or suspense moments.

Aldenard, give us some more details of what you want to do.