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Tips for producing a video and creating a storyboard

‌Designing a good video is no easy task and requires a lot of advanced thought and planning. We have put together a guide of helpful tips to assist you in the planning of your video through to the creation stage of your storyboard.

Step 1) Equipment required

With advancement of phone technology, you now have excellent camera capabilities at your fingertips. You can now storyboard, create high quality audiovisual content and edit, all on your mobile device.

• Camera Phone

• Tripod

Tips when using your mobile device for video creation

• Enable the grid application on your phone to guide your visuals

• Always clean your camera lens before use

Do not overexpose   

Get permission

Permission is required for anyone who is identifiable in your videos, please seek written permission for anyone who appears in your video to ensure the content can be used.

Suggested Apps

Image Source: www.mojo-manual.org‌

Step 2) Finding your story 

• Understand the audience you are creating the video for
• Have a theme and a purpose for your video
• Bring the viewer on a journey so they understand your story

Step 3) Finding a great visual location

 Finding great visuals is one of the most critical parts of video production as video is all about the visual aspect. Excellent background visuals increase viewership numbers and have longer retention levels.

1. Know your story to ensure the location is fit for purpose
2. Explore until you find the right location
3. Visit the location at a similar time to your planned shoot to avoid any unexpected background obstruction, loud sounds or lighting issues
4. Take photos from different angles and make notes about the location
5. Decide where you will set up
6. Check environment and weather conditions 

Google street view is an excellent tool for scouting locations if you are unable to visit prior to a shoot. 

Video on finding the right location 

Step 4) Audio

Sometimes you only get one chance at capturing audio and therefore it is extremely important to capture it right. Here are some helpful tips:

1.  Use a microphone where available
2. Test your equipment first
3. Monitor your audio results
4. Be aware of background noise
5. Watch out for wind disruption

Step 5) Shot types and angles

 Depending on your video the shot types and angles will differ, once you have decided on a story explore the different options suitable for your video. Check out this website (Mojo Manual) to explore the different shot types and angles.

Video on shot types
Video on shot types and angles 

Step 6) Plan your shoot sequences

Beginning, middle and end! Be conscious that you need to get your story across to your viewers and bring them on a journey.

1. Know your sequences
2. Opening shot should be visually strong and should establish your scene
3. Get cutaways and close ups of any subject matters

A helpful video on planning a shoot sequence

Step 7) Creating a Storyboard

Storyboarding is the process of creating a visual script of planned scenes ahead of producing a video. Storyboarding is a crucial part in the video creation stage.
This has many benefits including:

• Getting to visualise your project before shooting
• Reduced footage as you only shoot what is required
• In advance you establish any difficulties that may arise
• Saves time on editing & overall provides a better-quality video 

Online Storyboard creator
Printable Storyboard templates
Helpful video on creating a Storyboard