Storyboards

What is the purpose of a storyboard?

A storyboard involves planning shots in order to gain an in depth understanding of the shots that will be then filmed. This is a vital process as it prevents filming being delayed due to time needed to plan what the shot should contain. It also provides each group member with awareness of what the finished music video will involve. This therefore assists the production process and reduces the risk of faults. Individual ideas were combined with the ideas of the other group members in order to create the group storyboard. Creating this required an in-depth understanding of the narrative. Therefore every frame had to be discussed in detail. The storyboard shown below outlines the camera, shot, location, lighting, actors, dialogue, sound and editing. As well as textual evidence of having planned each scene, images have been used to prevent misinterpretation of the ideas.

How did you use your primary and secondary research that you carried out, to plan your music video?

The research that was carried out involved a questionnaire consisting of 10 questions; both open and closed. The questionnaire was handed out to 40 individuals around the age of the target market. 5 questions were also asked to 5 individuals which participated within the vox pops. The questions were open which encouraged qualitative data, similar to an interview. This allowed us to gain informative answers which gave us an insight into the needs of the target audience and how their expectations of the genre can be met. The research conducted provided information regarding elements that could be included in order to enhance the video's impact on the audience. The research was discussed and then incorporated into the narrative and into the storyboard. For example, the majority of participants preferred a music video to feature a motif which is simply a reoccurring image or concept. In the storyboard, cards were involved as a motif due to their connotations such as a game which can be linked to a relationship.

How did you and your group storyboard your music video?
All the potential elements were discussed which allowed the ideas to be considered to see which ones were worth incorporating into the music video. Many discussions were carried out prior to creating the storyboard. During the stage of initial planning, varied ideas were shared amongst the group and then evaluated in terms of their strength as well as faults. Once most aspects such as iconography, costume etc. were decided upon and all group members were aware of the narrative, a storyboard was created. The process was made easier after the music video was discussed as all members of the group expected a similar outcome. The storyboard is therefore a combination of ideas provided by al members.

How did you share the responsibility?

Within the group, in regards to the ideas incorporated into the storyboard, input was equal. However the storyboards itself were created by two of the four members; me and Lauren Vale. Each shot was discussed in order to get a clear idea of the order of the shots. I was predominantly involved in sketching the shots whilst Lauren wrote down a brief description as well as information regarding the lighting, costume, shot type etc. Sharing responsibilities allowed all group members to feel involved and regarded. The storyboard also enabled the group to have a clear vision of the expected music video.

Did you follow your storyboards, or did you make changes?

The storyboard was mostly followed which made the filming process easier due to being able to follow a plan. However the storyboard consisted of the most significant shots and so when filming, many more had to be filmed due to the duration of the song. The footage reflects the storyboard but some changes are evident. This is due to watching the footage providing the group with more ideas regarding how its visual appeal could be heightened.