Scriptwriting and Storyboard

Script Treatment

Once the concept is established and the research is complete, it is time to write the script. First write an outline and then a script treatment, which is a condensed version of the script that describes what will be seen and heard. The script treatment gives a chronological rundown of the prospective script, detailing information on the setting, plot, characters, and dialogue. Have the treatment approved before moving on to the final script.

Example of treatment.

Format

Write the final script and storyboard.

• A storyboard is a visual script that shows what the key scenes will look like. It helps you envision the video before you create it.

Example of storyboard.

• The script should address audio and video elements. There will be two columns. The left side is for video and the right side is for audio. On the audio side, write what will be said. On the video side describe the visuals.

Straight selling rarely works in corporate videos. Here are several ways to make the video more entertaining.

• In the right way-wrong way demonstration a character uses a machine incorrectly and then does it again the right way.

• For a training script, a step-by-step demonstration can be effective. This can be reinforced by using slow-motion, close-ups, and scripted questions from characters playing learning-employee roles.

• Note: In an actual demonstration, the entire procedure can be rather lengthy. To keep the audience's interest, do the beginning of the procedure and then use a montage or b-roll, go to the final step. Another alternative is to show "before" and "after" shots, and then explain what procedure was used.

Script Approval

Some production companies have writers that will develop the script, but the best tactic may be to write the script yourself since you are most familiar with the subject area. Then, review the script with the production company. This way, both parties know what is expected of them. Obtain any necessary approvals on the script before proceeding to production.

Example of a video production script.

Seeking a Production Company

Choose a production company. Evaluate the prices, but also check out the extras like the number of duplications, animations and graphics you are given. Look for a production company that has references, demo reels, or samples of their work.

Crews

For a simple video, the crew will include a producer/director, camera operator, and an audio person. For a more complex video, you may need a production assistant, make-up artists, grip, lighting directors, and others. The producer/director can be someone from your company if that person has the skills to direct. If not, you will have to rely on a production company. Good producers/directors know a lot about the subject matter and have strong creative vision. They are quick thinkers and understand the technical aspects of the production.

Production Process

Try to choose a production company that can handle the entire production process: shooting, editing, and duplicating. It can be more expensive to hire a production company for production, an editing company for editing, and a duplication company for duplication.

Try to find a company that can add time codes to your tape. A time code is the time at which a clip starts and ends on tape. For example, 01:08:20, is 1 hour: 8 minutes: 20 seconds. Time codes are recorded in hours, minutes, seconds, and sometimes, frames. This allows you to edit or find a shot you are looking for without viewing the entire tape over and over again. Producers can go straight to the clip they need quickly.

Quotes

Obtain several quotes. Most of the planning should be done before calling the production company because quotes depend on what you intend to do. Be prepared to ask the production company the following questions:

• What kind of experience do you have? Ask for demo reels, pamphlets and brochures about the company, references, and Web site address.

• What do they specialize in?

• Are there any extra charges? Extra charges can include, taxes, tapes, mileage, and travel expenses. Note: If you make changes to the project that require additional work, expect extra charges to apply.

• What will they need from you? They may need someone from your company to be answer questions, coordinate approvals, and schedule shoots.

The production company may ask you some of the following questions to determine the price:

• How many shooting locations will there be
• How long will the video be
• Who will write the script
• Do you need an on-camera talent or will you do voice-overs
• Will you need extra graphics or animations
• Who is the target audience

Types of Cameras

The price also depends on the type of camera used (MiniDV or Beta SP). Many production companies have their own opinion on which is better. The majority use Beta SP, but there is little difference in the quality of the video. Mini DVs, however, are smaller cameras and have excellent battery life. The Mini DV is better for a production that requires a lot of movement and a lot less expensive than Beta SP. Ask the production company which one it uses and ask them to explain why.

Talent

The production company can provide the talent, or your company can recruit one. The talent can be a weatherization technician, program manager, or anyone else who knows a lot about the subject. You will need to familiarize the talent with the script.

Content updated on 12/11/2009