Here is an example of a storyboard. These 24 cards show the shots that could be taken for producing an instructional video that would teach a 16 year old how to parallel park a car. Please notice the varying shot selection and the utilization of transition shots. This example also tries to show how a scene uses certain features of the editing system, such as freeze frame, slow motion, and titling. Notice in this storyboard that the secondary (PCM) audio is almost used entirely throughout the sequence. There are also notes on controlling certain background sounds so that they aren't too loud. And finally, examples of possible computer generated graphics are shown.
1 Title screen
Use of a computer generated graphic for a title screen. Music starts from black then cuts to a shot of the title screen.
2 ELS of city
Use of an establishing shot to help the viewer identify the setting of the scene.
3 LS of downtown
Another establishing shot, this time a long shot as opposed to an extra long shot.
4 LS of car
An attempt to (pan) transition the viewer from the setting to a specific subject -- the narrator.
5 CU of narrator
Cut transition into this shot is complemented by a change in shot selection from a long shot to a close-up shot.
6 LS of car
The audio containing the narration was taped as a continuous segment so that the cuts between the scenes would not have conflicting background audio, such as a siren from an ambulance. By adding this audio back to the master tape on the secondary audio track, the sound can remain intact.
7 CU of frustrated driver
A freeze frame close-up shot to emphasize the frustrated feeling.
8 XCU of stop sign
Planned additional audio sound--a horn to capture the viewers' attention.
9 LS of another car pulling into same spot with ease
This sequence can be taped right after the previous parking scene since the editor will allow for insert or program editing to incorporate the two previous shots anywhere in the final sequence.
10 Graphic Insert of steps to parallel park
Black transition to put a distinct break between the different scenes. The black usually lasts for only one second.
Also, an attempt to use a computer generated graphic.11 MS of student driver w/puzzled look
Again, a black transition out of the shot to tell the viewer that a drastic change in scene is about to take place.
Black can be recorded right after the shot is cut by covering the lens and resuming the recording for another second or so. Black transition can also be taken from any recorded black and edited into the sequence.12 LS of step 1
A zoom out transition is used to provide a different way of showing an establishing shot.
13 MS of step 2
From inside of the car, a different perspective--the driver's point of view.
14 MS of step 3
Another different type of shot to continue the sequence.
15 MS of step 4
Same shot type, but different angle.
16 CU of student smiling
Close-up shot to show expression.
17 Graphic Insert - Review step 1
These next 5 images of computer generated graphics are not animated so are treated as 5 different shots.
18 Graphic Insert - Review step 2
And since these computer generated graphics don't include an accompanying audio, we must add our narration so that the viewer gets the full audio and visual effect.
19 Graphic Insert - Review step 3
Similar to #17, & 18.
20 Graphic Insert - Review step 4
Similar to #17, 18, &19. These 5 seconds short shots help to keep the video moving along.
21 Graphic Insert - Finished position
Similar to #17, 18, 19, & 29. This card was added once it was realized that there wasn't any finished parking graphic. This meant that the following cards had to be re-numbered.
22 LS of complete sequence of parking
Although this shot is placed later in the sequence, it still was recorded soon after the two previous parallel parking scenes downtown.
There was a short delay so that the shot would look a little different with different cars in front and in back.23 CU of driver smiling
Fade out transition to bring closure to the video going into the credits.
24 Credits
Using video converter devices, we again are able to use computer generated graphics in our video. We could also have printed this on a color printer and used the video camera to record this image to tape.
Common Errors