For many professional video production companies, a storyboard can be such an important step because it helps to map out the entire video before filming even begins. Those thumbnail images can help to visualize the shots and camera angles you will need, as well as help to determine the pacing of your video.
Additionally, storyboards can be very helpful when it comes time for the editing process by serving as a guide for what footage should be used where. In this article, we’ll break down some importance of the storyboard so you understand why this step plays such a crucial role in your video production.
What Exactly Is A Storyboard?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, we should first define what a storyboard actually is. A storyboard is a series of images that depict the shots and scenes of your video. They are often created with stick figures or crude drawings to help communicate the sequence and flow of the visuals, as well as how they will be staged.
More often than not, storyboards are hand-drawn because the process of creating one is very similar to how we would imagine a movie in our heads. Most directors and video production professionals will sit down with pen and paper first, then bring this storyboard to life through the filming process.
That said, in today’s digital world, you can create storyboards using tools. So, even when you don’t have a lot of drawing skills, you can still map out your video using the software.
Why Use A Storyboard?
Now that we know what a storyboard is and why it’s important, let’s explore some specific reasons why you should create one for your next video production:
1. Give Everyone A Clear Vision
An effective storyboard helps to provide the entire team with a clear and accurate picture of what your video will look like before filming even begins. Whether you are working with actors, lighting experts, or editors, every member should know exactly how the visuals will be presented in advance so there is no confusion during production.
This way, everyone involved knows what the final product is supposed to look like and there are no surprises in the editing room. Additionally, a storyboard can be used as a guide for actors or anyone else who needs specific information about their role in the video.
2. Save Time And Money
A well-constructed storyboard can help to speed up the production process by ensuring that everyone is on the same page. This way, you’re not wasting time trying to figure out what needs to be done during filming and can focus on getting the shots that you need.
In addition, a storyboard can also help to avoid costly errors. For example, if you map out your video in advance and find that there is no way to capture the footage you need within budget, this can help prevent any miscommunication or surprise when it’s time to edit.
3. Make The Workflow Smoother
A storyboard can help to streamline the workflow for your entire video production. By having a clear plan of action, you can avoid any wasted time or confusion on set.
Additionally, if you’re working with a team of people who are not all in the same location, a storyboard can help to keep everyone on track. This is especially important during the editing process when you need to piece together footage from different sources.
4. Ensure The Video’s Quality
It’s no secret that a well-designed storyboard can help to ensure the overall quality and production value of your video. This is because it allows you (the director) to think through every shot and make decisions about how they will be filmed, lit, and edited before any footage has been captured.
This way, you’re not making any last-minute changes in the editing room that can compromise the overall look and feel of your explainer video.
5. Get Feedback
One of the best things about a storyboard is that it can be used as a way to get feedback from others. By sharing your storyboard with your team or even potential clients, you can get an idea of what they think about your video and whether or not it meets their expectations.
This early feedback can be helpful to identify any mistakes before it’s too late, so you can adjust accordingly.
6. Plan Better
In addition, a storyboard can help you develop your video’s overall concept and theme. Instead of diving right into the production process with little or no planning, this step-by-step guide will ensure that every element is in place from start to finish.
For example, if you’re creating a video about a specific process, you can map out the different steps and how they’ll be presented in your video. This way, you’re not guessing what will work or trying to come up with ideas on the fly.
While storyboarding is not a requirement for all video productions, it can be an extremely helpful tool if used correctly. By taking the time to create a storyboard, you can ensure that your video looks and feels professional from start to finish.
Wrapping Up
This article is to help businesses out there who want to jump on professional video production for their video marketing campaigns. Bottom line, a storyboard is an essential tool for every well-thought video production as it helps to ensure the final result will meet the standards of you and your team.
Twitter: @breadnbeyond
Email: andre@breadnbeyond.com
LinkedIn: Andre Oentoro