Plan the story in pictures
Storyboarding turns a script into a sequence of images that show how a scene could appear on screen. It helps the filmmaking team explore ideas, communicate clearly and prepare for filming.
You do not need to be an accomplished illustrator. Stick figures, simple shapes and clear notes can communicate a shot effectively.
The role
A storyboard artist works with the director and other production departments to plan how a story will unfold visually.
Each panel represents a proposed shot or moment. It can show the framing, character positions, important action and camera movement. Notes explain details that a drawing alone cannot convey.
Storyboards help the team discuss creative choices and identify practical needs before arriving on set. They provide a shared plan that can adapt as the production develops.
Core skills
- Breaking a script into visual moments.
- Choosing shot sizes, framing and camera angles.
- Showing character movement and screen direction.
- Communicating camera movement with arrows and notes.
- Maintaining continuity between shots.
- Considering pacing and the order of images.
- Collaborating with the director and camera team.
- Revising ideas to suit locations, equipment and available time.
Suggested practical workshop: One scene, six shots
Choose a simple action, such as someone entering a room, discovering an unexpected object and deciding what to do next.
Draw six storyboard panels that communicate the scene without dialogue. Experiment with wide shots, medium shots and close-ups. Beneath each panel, note the action, any camera movement and important sound.
Share the sequence with another participant. Can they understand what happens and where the characters are? Revise any unclear panels, then use a phone or camera to try filming the sequence where practical.
What you could take away: A six-panel storyboard and an understanding of how shot choices shape a viewer’s experience.
This is a proposed workshop. Dates, venues and participation arrangements will be announced when confirmed.
Get involved
Interested in visual storytelling? Register your interest in storyboarding, whether you enjoy drawing, photography, directing or simply imagining how a scene could look.