Taking your Script to Storyboard
Creating a live-action or animated film is a long and complex process, but - if all goes well - has a rewarding outcome. Using Storyboard That to plan your next film gives you an easy way to keep your project organized every step of the way!
Storyboarding has great potential for the filmmaking process. You can make plot drafts and character maps for planning, and use the traditional shot-by-shot storyboarding method for the actual filming.
Scripting That Idea
The first step towards making your film is to record your ideas with some pre-writing and planning. Think back to English class and pull inspiration and strong plots from topics like the hero's journey and plot structure. It can take multiple drafts to get the pacing, settings, characters, and plot just right.
Don’t be afraid to revise your work and then revise your revisions. This will lead to continually improved work.
What does a storyboard look like? We have some great templates to help you get started on your film. Make use of our character map template and plot diagram planner to flesh out basic ideas. Who are your characters? What do they care about? What kinds of decisions do your characters make? What is the main conflict in the story? What are the plot twists?
Storyboarding That Idea
The Benefits of Storyboarding Your Script
The next step is to take your written word and transfer it to a visual medium. The best practice for films (animations and commercials too!) is to use the script to develop a storyboard. Using imagery with the text can create a deeper and more immediate understanding of the desired result. This is also extremely helpful if you are working in a group and have others relying on your direction.
Since some people are visual learners, the storyboarding processes can better communicate your vision to those who respond best to pictorial instruction.
The Storyboarding Process
Now that you have decided to transform your writing into a storyboard script, it is time to begin the process.
Step 1: Begin Storyboarding
Take a look at your script and break it down scene by scene or shot by shot. Typically, people choose to make groups of 4-6 cells, to ensure large enough cells and nice placement on standard paper (8 ½ by 11 inches) when printed. Begin the storyboarding process by labeling your scenes, writing the directions, adding character dialogue, and placing imagery. Here is a breakdown of the parts of each cell.
Step 2: Lay Out Storyboards
Once you have gotten your script into a storyboard, the story should really start to come alive! Lay out the storyboard in order and check for accuracy, continuity, and so on.
Step 3: Revise Storyboards
Perhaps you are a miracle worker and can start shooting right away, but most people need to make revisions. Carefully look through the storyboards: add in camera motions, effects, background characters, music and lighting cues, and anything else that will help you, your investors, and your crew see your plan.
Now that you have a rough video storyboard laid out, it’s time to begin refining it and adding small details to make your storyboards pop! Check out our article about how to improve your storyboards!.
When your amazing storyboards are complete, use them to film your project. The storyboards should work like a step-by-step guide of how each shot should look, what is being said by characters, and any camera motions that need to occur. Using the storyboards to assist you in the planning process will make the actual filming and production much easier for everyone involved in the project.
How Tos about How to Take Your Script to Storyboard
How can I use storyboarding for group collaboration in the classroom?
Encourage teamwork: Assign students to small groups and have them collaboratively create storyboards for a shared script. This promotes communication and creative problem-solving.
Divide responsibilities among students for efficient workflow.
Assign roles: Let each student take on a specific task such as drawing, writing dialogue, or organizing scenes. This helps students focus and builds a sense of ownership.
Facilitate peer feedback to improve storyboards.
Organize feedback sessions: Have groups share their storyboards and constructively critique each other's work. Students learn to accept suggestions and refine ideas.
Incorporate digital tools for interactive storyboarding.
Use online platforms: Try digital storyboard creators to allow students to edit, move, and share scenes easily. This makes collaboration seamless and fun.
Present final storyboards to the class for shared learning.
Host showcase sessions: Invite each group to present their finished storyboards, explaining their creative choices. Students gain confidence and appreciate diverse perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Take Your Script to Storyboard
What is the best way to turn a script into a storyboard for classroom projects?
The best way to turn a script into a storyboard is to break your script down scene by scene, then sketch out key actions, character dialogue, and directions for each shot. Storyboard templates can help organize your ideas visually and make revisions easy.
How can storyboarding help K-12 students plan films or animations?
Storyboarding helps K-12 students visualize their ideas, organize story structure, and communicate clearly with their group. It encourages planning, creativity, and collaboration in film or animation projects.
Why is storyboarding important before filming?
Storyboarding is important because it acts as a visual guide for each scene, helping filmmakers plan shots, camera movements, and dialogue. It streamlines production and reduces mistakes during filming.
What are some easy storyboard templates for teachers to use?
Teachers can use character map templates, plot diagram planners, and shot-by-shot storyboard grids to help students get started. Many free and editable templates are available online.
How do you revise a storyboard to improve your film project?
To revise a storyboard, review each cell for clarity, add camera cues, background details, and dialogue. Refine scenes for accuracy and flow, and get feedback from peers before finalizing.
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