What does storyboard mean?
A storyboard is a visual tool used to plan and organize a story or sequence of events, typically in the form of a series of sketches or images. It is commonly used in film, television, and other media to help creators visualize and refine their narrative. Storyboards can be simple or highly detailed, and may include notes, dialogue, and other relevant information. By creating a storyboard, creators can experiment with different pacing, camera angles, and shot sequences, making it an essential step in the production process. The term storyboard has become increasingly popular with the rise of digital media and visual storytelling.
A visual representation of a sequence of events, typically in the form of a series of sketches or images.
"The film director created a detailed storyboard to plan out the sequence of shots for the movie."
To create or use a storyboard.
"The filmmakers storyboarded the entire sequence before filming."
This usage is less common, but increasingly used in modern media production.
The plural form is used when referring to multiple visual representations or boards.
"The production team created several storyboards to compare different approaches to the scene."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of storyboard
The term storyboard originated in the 1940s, derived from the words 'story' and 'board'. It is believed to have been first used in the film industry as a physical board or panel used to display a sequence of images or sketches representing a story. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass both the physical board and the visual representation itself.
How storyboard is actually used
Storyboard can also be used as a verb, meaning to create or use a storyboard.