- TITLE THIS BLOG POST: Visual Story Structure Research
- PLACE A CREATIVE COMMONS IMAGE RELATED TO THE PROJECT FROM WORDPRESS.ORG/OPENVERSE AT THE TOP OF THE POST
- FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS IN THE:
- Read CINEMATOGRAPHY The Visuals and the Story by Bruce Block (PDF)
- Study each component and look for examples in films
- Review the Visual Story Template (PDF)
- Use the Story Visual Intensity Structure Scene Worksheet (PDF) to plan out the Visual Story component
- Use the Story Visual Intensity Structure Film Worksheet (PDF) to plan out the complete production
- REVIEW THESE POST EXAMPLES:
- Coming Soon!
- DELETE ALL OF MR. LE DUC’s INSTRUCTIONS DETAILED ABOVE AFTER COMPLETING THEM
Seven Visual Story Components
Cue | Notes |
Space: Shallow shots convey calmness. Dutch angle portrays something is wrong. Emphasize longitudinal planes. Stage objects perpendicular to the picture plane. Dolly in and out. Separate with contrast. Wide angle, telephoto lens. | |
Line and Shape: Movement in a predictable pattern vs noticeable pattern in unpredictable movement. Squint (linear motif). Light emphasis. Intentional staging. Linear motif storyboard. Simplify. | |
Tone: Grey vs. black and white. Portrayal of dichotomy with lighting. Emphasize objects with tone. | |
Color: Orange and teal are two most favorite film colors. Lens filters. Magic hour (when the sun is below the horizon). | |
Movement: Background affects complexity. Contrast from background. Where character is facing/body language. | |
Rhythm: Pillars and picket fences create rhythm. Background structure. Sequential similar shapes create a montage. | |
Summary
Use light and dark lighting to show a split decision.
Resources
- Mr. Le Duc’s Blog with numerous examples and further details
- Read The Visuals and the Story by Bruce Block (PDF)
- Visual Story Template (PDF)
- Story Visual Intensity Structure SCENE Worksheet (PDF) to plan out the Visual Story component
- Use the Story Visual Intensity Structure FILM Worksheet (PDF) to plan out the complete production
- Advanced Storyboard Template Explained
- Blocking Planning Guide (PDF)
- Blocking and Acting Worksheet (PDF)
- 5 Stages of Blocking Worksheet (PDF)
- Light Settings and Set-Up Worksheet (PDF)
- Camera Operation and Control
- Lens Operation and Control
- Audio Deck Operation and Control
- Acting Operation and Control
- Blocking Operation and Control
- Lighting Operation and Control
- Editing Operation and Control