What is a Storyboard?

Storyboard

A storyboard is a visual plan that maps out how a video, advert, animation, or film will look before it is produced. Think of it as a comic strip for your project. It shows each scene frame by frame including what the audience will see, what they will hear, and how the scenes will transition.

Storyboards help creators to:

• Organise their ideas

• Visualise the flow of a story

• Plan camera angles, shots, and transitions

• Save time and money by spotting issues before filming

They are used widely in digital media, advertising, education, film, and animation. For example, if you are planning a 30 second advert for a new gaming channel a storyboard can help you break down how to introduce the streamer, showcase exciting gameplay, and finish with a strong call to action.

Example Apps to Create Storyboards

Today you do not need to be a professional artist to make a storyboard. There are several apps and platforms that make it simple to drag, drop, and design your frames. Here are a few to try:

1. Canva

Canva Storyboard Templates Easy to use with pre made storyboard templates. Great for beginners and students. You can add images, icons, and even collaborate in real time with others.

2. Storyboard That

Storyboard That a popular web app built specifically for making storyboards. Offers characters, scenes, and objects you can drag into each frame. Widely used in schools and education because it is simple and fun.

3. Milanote

MilanoteDesigned for creative professionals Milanote lets you visually organise your ideas on an infinite canvas. You can add images, text, sketches, and even link in reference material. Perfect for mood boards as well as storyboards.

4. Boords

BoordsAn online tool for teams working on animation film and adverts. Includes timeline features script integration and easy frame reordering. Exports to animatics which are moving storyboards for more advanced planning.

5. Storyboarder by Wonder Unit

Storyboarder (Free Download)A free open source software for drawing storyboards. Allows you to sketch quickly time scenes and export to video editing software. Great for creators who like drawing their own frames.

Why Use a Storyboard?

Whether you are a student planning a Digital Media project a teacher preparing an educational video or a content creator planning your next YouTube or TikTok advert a storyboard is your blueprint. It helps you stay organised work collaboratively and bring your ideas to life more effectively.