Storyboarding

This is a key stage of the process that is unfortunately neglected in much A-Level work with some groups believing that the storyboards are best completed after the filming! This is nonsense. The storyboard is an essential document if you are going to create a professional opening sequence. It basically consists of sketches that show what will be in each of your shots. There is space for information about shot duration and sound/dialogue. Any camera movement should be indicated by an arrow drawn onto the sketch itself. You can also indicate transitions between each shot - most will be cuts of course.

The storyboard is an excellent way for you to think about your shots and framing before you get on location with actors/actresses and a declining amount of battery/light/patience! Getting the storyboards right should enable you to know exactly what is required when you arrive at your location - I can't emphasise enough how much time and aggravation this will save you.

The ones above are from Shallow Grave - there are loads of storyboards online for you to look at and they are also sometimes included as extra features on DVDs.

You own storyboard doesn't need to show that you are an amazing artist - this isn't a skill that you are being assessed on. You only need one storyboard per group though, so it would be sensible for the best artist in the group to draw the sketches - with input from the rest of the group of course.