Presenting information using a videotape usually involves putting together a number of short segments that make up a scene. Several scenes are then joined to convey specific messages. Videotape recordings, like any other medium, should be well planned if its message is to be effective. In order to take advantage of this compelling form of communication, designers such as yourself need to remember to appeal to both the aural and visual senses of your audience. Your design process can be aided through the use of a tool known as a storyboard.
What is a Storyboard? Why is a Storyboard Necessary? How do I Create a Storyboard?
Developed during the pre-production stage and used throughout the production and post-production stages, a storyboard is a series of diagrams that are used to depict the composition of a video segment. Each diagram consists of: a sketch of the video image; a brief description of the visual; notes for the camera operator; the details of the desired audio that will accompany the visual; and an estimate of how long the segment will be. The storyboard cards are then placed in order to provide the foundation for capturing the proper footage and for making the correct editing decisions. Here is an example of what a storyboard card might look like.
When sequenced, the storyboard diagrams should act as a guide for the production and post production stages of producing a video. Without a well defined storyboard collection, the director's job becomes unmanageable.
The storyboard becomes a valuable tool for everyone involved with the production. When the director, camera operator, talent, and editing team all have the same understanding of the goals of the video, a quality production becomes obtainable.
Creating a storyboard also allows the production team to experiment with different ideas and sequences before taping any segments. Individuals can sketch and explain their visions of what the flow of presentation should be. During the pre-production stage, adjustments can be made to the projections of the completed video, which will save valuable production and post production time. The production and editing teams do not need to guess as to what type of footage might be needed and how it might all fit together. If the proper segments are recorded, as called for by the storyboard, the editing process should flow smoothly.
The other advantage of having individual storyboard cards is that it can be re-shuffled into an order that will facilitate the production stage. Once the desired order of the segments are identified for the final product, the director can then rearrange the order of the cards to plan how to record each segment while minimizing the number of equipment and set changes.
In the Storyboard Template section, you can see what a storyboard might look like. Variations of this storyboard can be made to suit your needs, but should include these basic sections: sketch, video information, audio information, camera operation instructions, the time of the segment, and a segment number.
Functions
Basic Shot Selection