Use a storyboard for filming

Why a storyboard?

Answer: It helps you visualise and get shots edited into the best sequence for continuity.

The two types of storyboard

1. At the treatment stage, when preparing a script, it can assist in visualising the whole script (if not too long) or some parts of the
story or documentary. Use ready printed layouts or make your own sheets.

2. After you have got it all into the can a storyboard is useful for getting it into the best order for the fmal edit. Using squared A4 sheets divided into 3 by4 proportions to represent frames just big enough to sketch

After shooting

2. After you have got it all into the can a storyboard is useful for getting it into the best order for the final edit. Using squared A4 sheets divided into 3 by4 proportions to represent frames just big enough to sketch the shots whilst in still mode on the camcorder and numbered in the order as shot. You don't have to be good at drawing. Use diagrammatic pictures. Figures can be in stick form. (I like to use coloured pencils.)
 
 

It’sa he lp to have the drawings on thin cards and juggle them around to get the shot order sorted out, especially where sequences require to be broken down in order to allow the story to flow. Especially in action shots:
L/S-M/S-C/U-BCU etc.


A good example of a storyboard used at the treatment stage was the club film 'A Canal Reborn'. In this case, I made over 80 drawings, which were shown at a club meeting. Quite an extreme example!

Juggle The Shots