In the world of visual storytelling, storyboards can be a director and cinematographer's best friend. They're little boxes, which you draw your camera angles and theorize shots inside.

Today, we delve into the essentials of storyboard creation, offering you a comprehensive checklist that serves as your guide through this creative process.

Sound good?

Let's get started.


A Comprehensive Storyboarding Checklist

Storyboard

'Jurassic Park' storyboards

Paramount

Creating a storyboard is an essential step in visual storytelling, whether for film, animation, advertising, or any other visual medium. Here's a checklist to keep in mind before starting your storyboards:

  1. Understand the Story or Concept:
    • Read and comprehend the script or narrative.
    • Identify key scenes, moments, and emotions.
  2. Define the Purpose:
    • Determine the storyboard's objective (e.g., pitching, pre-visualization, etc.).
  3. Research and Inspiration:
    • Collect reference materials (images, videos, artworks).
    • Seek inspiration from similar works.
  4. Choose a Format:
    • Decide on the storyboard layout (traditional panels, digital, etc.).
    • Select an aspect ratio relevant to your medium (film, TV, online content).
  5. Plan Shots and Angles:
    • Decide on camera angles and perspectives.
    • Consider wide shots, close-ups, and cutaways.
  6. Sketch Thumbnails:
    • Create quick, rough sketches to plan composition and flow.
    • Focus on basic elements like framing and action, not details.
  7. Think Cinematically:
    • Consider lighting, color, and depth.
    • Plan transitions and movements.
  8. Character and Environment Design:
    • Sketch key characters and settings.
  9. Dialogue and Annotations:
    • Include dialogue or script excerpts where necessary.
    • Annotate for camera movements, sound effects, and timing.
  10. Feedback and Collaboration:
    • Share your storyboard with team members for feedback.
  11. Organize and Sequence:
    • Ensure scenes are in logical order.
    • Pay attention to pacing and rhythm.
  12. Technical Considerations:
    • Plan for any special effects or complex animations.
  13. Prepare for Presentation:
    • If presenting the storyboard, practice your pitch.
  14. Review and Finalize:
    • Double-check all elements for consistency and clarity.
    • Make final adjustments based on feedback and your own review.

Remember, a storyboard is a tool for visual planning and communication. It should clearly convey your vision for the story.

Now, go get to work.