Reading Reflection #5
I’ve decided to write about the Cinematic Conventions, Thumbnail Sketches, and Hand-Drawn Storyboards by Austin Shaw because we have a storyboard due on Thursday (and I thought the subject was practical enough for me to actually use).
First of he explains something important, how you need to have film making knowledge to know which kind of drawing you are going to do (so that when your story is transferred to movie it is done smoothly). He gives us a series of typical shots. The wide shot (used as transition in narrative), the medium shot (distance transition), Close-Up Shot (emotional intensity), Low Angle Shots (accentuates monumental), High Angle shot (distance transition), Dutch Angle (apparition of the horizon, can create tension), Over the Shoulder (increases intimacy), Two shot (two figures, enhance interaction of visual elements within picture), the bird’s eye view (sweeping over the view shot, enhances dramatic effect).
It then introduces elements of cinematic principles. As the storyboard phase, you must consider what the audience will feel and think. The establishing shot is important to introduce a new narrative setting. The hero frame will define the motion within a frame (you must consider topography).
Thumbnail sketches are quick digital drawings that “explore the essential qualities of an image in a fast and loose manner”. It highlights how important narrative continuity is during the storyboard phase. All camera movements must be considered from frame to frame. Finally, he explains generally how a storyboard conveys idea about camera movement and narrative to the creative team. A storyboard can be vital to get a production team hyped over your project!