STORYBOARD ARTIST

A storyboard artist is the person who interpret scripts and sketched ideas in order to create storyboards. They work closely with the Director and, possibly, with the Scriptwriter, Producer, Client or Storyboard Supervisor, to visualise and tell the story.

Storyboard Artists illustrate the narrative, plan shots, and draw panels to demonstrate action and maintain continuity between scenes.

Above all else, storyboard artists must be able to tell a good story. To achieve this, they must be film literate, with a good understanding of layout, composition, sequential drawing and editing. They need to be able to work either independently or as part of a team. They should be able to take direction, and also be prepared to make changes to their work.

For certain projects Storyboard Artists need excellent drawing skills and the ability to adapt to a wide range of styles. They must be able to follow established designs and produce consistent work, drawn on model.

Good communication and presentation skills are essential. Depending on the project, basic computer literacy and familiarity with relevant storyboard software may be required.

A storyboard artist may have film background including formal art and drawing training, or may have other experience as it relates to film-making and production. A good understanding of the terminology used in creating films as well as artistic talents are required for the job.


Common work activities include: Listening to the directors verbal description of the scene and then sketching what it would appear like in reality.
Creating new and interesting ideas to the storyboard art to capture both the activity and the emotion of the scene.
Organizing and managing timelines to ensure all completed and submitted on schedule.
Revising, editing and modifying sketches as indicated by the director or creative team.
Implementing various computer programs to enhance the visual presentation of ideas for the scene or for effectively capturing the director's ideas for the shot.


Sources: http://www.jobprofiles.org/artfilm4.htm, http://www.skillset.org/animation/careers/article_4165_1.asp


STEVE BEAUMONT is an example of a storyboard artist. He has worked with, amongst others, Universal Studios, BMW, Playstation and Warner Brothers. I like his work because of his dynamic drawings and ability to keep it simple but also make it look good!

I have also made a schedule of my work on the Ident animation.
Here it is: