Storyboard Arrows — How to Storyboard Camera Moves

Storyboard arrows are the de facto way to illustrate character and camera movement in a storyboard. They bring dynamism to a static image but they also become a bit of critical communication between the director and the crew, especially the camera crew. But for all their simplicity, there are still some general "rules" behind them you should know. Which arrows to use and how can they be used for more complicated movements? In this quick guide to storyboards arrows, we'll cover the basics so you can attack your next storyboard with an extra layer of professionalism and specificity.Continue reading Storyboard…

Motion Graphics Design Inspirations and Trends

Motion graphic design is an excellent visual storytelling tool utilized more and more often. They engage viewers and communicate ideas in a brisk yet captivating manner.With motion graphics, styles shift over time so it’s important to stay on top of trends. In this post, we’re going to go over a list of the biggest motion graphics trends of the last few years.Let's get started.Continue reading Motion Graphics Design Inspirations and Trends

What is a Zoom Shot and When You Should Use One

If you’re an aspiring cinematographer or director, you know that the camera is your primary storytelling tool. How you move the camera or how you frame a subject communicates intangible information to the audience. The zoom shot is just one of these techniques and adds a very particular and nuanced message. Knowing what this message is is critical to deciding when to use it. So, what is a zoom shot?Continue reading What is a Zoom Shot and When You Should Use One

Portrait Lighting Setup Guide — 8 Ways to Shoot Great Portraits

Taking a great portrait isn’t about having a quality camera and attractive subject. It’s not even about wardrobe or location. If you mess up the lighting in your portraits, post production won’t always be able to save you. How can you nail it each time? Whether you’re taking school pictures or are shooting athletes for an ad, knowing how to master portrait lighting setups will pay off big. Continue reading Portrait Lighting Setup Guide — 8 Ways to Shoot Great Portraits

What is a Supporting Character — And Why They Matter

While many films include archetypal supporting characters, these molds are a little worn out. The audience is getting smarter and more curious. They crave more than the all-too-familiar “mentor” or “sidekick” as a way to convey information or to push the protagonist forward. Watching to see what a supporting character is capable of by themselves and how they relate to the main character, is much more interesting. Writing supporting characters that build conflict creates much more dynamic on-screen relationships than tired old tropes. But before we jump into all of that, let’s answer what is a supporting character the best…

Zack Snyder’s Directing Style and Visual Style Breakdown

Any great director has fans and detractors, lovers and haters. But few filmmakers inspire division as extreme as comic book, movie maestro, Zack Snyder. Frivolous hack, or pop art genius? Stylist without substance, or masterful cinematic storyteller?Even Snyder’s critics admit that what he does well, he does better than anyone. Snyder's kinetic action sequences can pull viewers into a heightened, tone-rich fray. This guide to Zack Snyder’s directing style focuses on his on-screen wins and how he achieves them. We'll examine Snyder's techniques and see how he creates his undeniable visual mood and energy. Let's dive in.Continue reading Zack Snyder’s…

What is Stream of Consciousness Writing — Methods & Tips

As a writer, stream of consciousness may be fun to write but unenjoyable to read. Or for you, the reverse may be true. When talking about screenwriting, stream of consciousness may not be a method frequently used on the page but can be used and benefited from in the pre-writing process or even with visual elements on screen. This article will answer what is stream of consciousness writing by providing narrative examples and film examples, while also demonstrating another use of the method to help screenwriters (or any writer) connect to their best work. Continue reading What is Stream of Consciousness…