Setting & Description

Why is the first scene important? Well, because if the editor doesn't
like it, she'll stop reading. :)

Beyond that, the first scene should do a lot for the reader. It
should both establish the current situation and set up the need for
change. It should be intriguing, drawing the reader in and giving her
reason to keep reading. It should give a hint of the coming conflicts,
and maybe a starting point for the theme. It should introduce the main
character and the setting in a way that both explains and entices-- that
is, you want to give just enough information that the reader is intrigued
but not confused.

But too often, first scenes are either jammed full of so many details the
reader gives up.... or generic, like a dozen other opening scenes she's
read.

In any story, half of the information given to the reader is never spoken out loud. It's body language, and body language can tell your reader what your character is doing and how they feel about it.

So the same old reds and greens are giving you the blues. You want to make your settings more vibrant, but you just don't know where to start. Wake up, and open your eyes.

Color is everywhere, and it's the easiest way to add a little pizzazz to an otherwise bland description.