How to Make a Storyboard for a Music Video

The storyboard is a visual draft of a story; in this case, the story is set to music. The music dictates the visuals used in the video, thereby telling the story; or else the music supports the visuals, which means the story is already told and the music supplements the story. Either way, the storyboard provides a sketch of the flow of the audio and video. Storyboards are not set in stone and can be revised as needed. Here are a few guidelines to get you on your way to creating a storyboard for a music video.

Things You'll Need

• Printer
• Lyrics
• Music
• Storyboard form
• Computer
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Print the lyrics of the song to understand what is being said (see Resources below).

2. Listen to the music to determine the tempo, beats and rhythm.

3. Download and print plenty of copies of the blank storyboard form (see Resources below).

4. Listen to the music again to document time codes, in minutes and seconds, for changes in the music, changes in rhythm and/or the playing of minor instruments.

5. Sketch a scene on the storyboard according to a change in the music.

6. Review the storyboard with the music to ensure the visuals and music relay the intended message.

7. Draw arrows from one scene to the next and write the type of transition you will use between each scene.

8. Present the storyboard to a third party for feedback

Tips & Warnings

• Have an idea of the video’s intended message. If illustration is a challenge, write the concept of the scene in the storyboard. Video transitions on downbeats can provide additional impact.

• Brainstorm freely. Use photos, videos and text liberally throughout your video. Allow enough time to leave the storyboard and return to it with a fresh perspective.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Additional information about Storyboards can be found here.
• Print out storyboard forms here.
• Find music lyrics here.