Storyboard Assistant - Animation

The role of Storyboard Assistant only exists on certain types of production and can be a suitable entry level job. The work varies greatly depending on the requirements of the particular project, and on the Storyboard Artist's working methods.

In most cases, Storyboard Assistants clean up Storyboard Artists' rough drawings, ensuring they are on model (in style), preparing the panels for the next stage of production and generally assisting the Storyboard Artist. They may be asked to fill in background details, or to add secondary characters to panels where the Storyboard Artist may have indicated only part of the action.

Whether a storyboard remains in rough, or if it needs to be cleaned up, depends on the requirements of the particular production. For example, clean drawings are less likely to be required for a Computer Generated film, where tight drawings of a character may not be relevant; however, on a television project where all the animation is being produced overseas, it may be necessary to present the characters very accurately.

Storyboard Assistants may be required to scan the drawn panels into a computer in preparation for editing.


Responsibilities

Storyboard Assistants are responsible for either cleaning up existing panels, or for completing partly drawn panels, as directed by the Storyboard Artist or Storyboard Supervisor. They must deliver accurate work on brief and on time and, towards the end of a schedule, may work long hours.

Skills

Storyboard Assistants must be able to take direction and work as part of a team. Depending on the project, excellent drawing skills and the ability to adapt to a range of styles may be required. Knowledge of relevant software (e.g. Photoshop or various graphics and editing packages) may also be necessary.

Good communication and presentation skills are required in order to progress within the Storyboard Department. Storyboard Assistants must respect studios' working practices and discretion may be required if they are working on a confidential project. They must understand the disciplines required to produce clear story boards from which other people can work.


Qualifications/Experience

Entry level Storyboard Assistants are usually Art, Animation, or Film graduates, but opportunities may also exist for Runners with the appropriate talents to be promoted to Storyboard Assistant. When applying for a job, it is necessary to show a portfolio which demonstrates good drawing skills and a range of styles.

Show-reels or personal storyboards, which demonstrate a talent for storytelling and film structure, are also expected from Animation or Film graduates. Graduates from Art courses, such as Graphic Design or Illustration, need to concentrate on acquiring storytelling and film theory skills once they are working; however, employers may expect Animation graduates to already be able to demonstrate some understanding of these areas .

When these jobs are available, they are particularly suitable for people with a special interest in pre-production, who enjoy telling a story and hope to become a Storyboard Artist. Candidates without degree qualifications, but with the appropriate passion and a portfolio of good drawings, may also be considered for work at this level.


Storyboard Assistant - Animation