Types of Storyboard Artist Jobs
Storyboard Artist roles span a spectrum of expertise and responsibilities, catering to various stages of film, television, and animation production. These creative professionals translate scripts into visual narratives, setting the foundation for the visual storytelling process. From entry-level positions to senior roles, each title carries distinct responsibilities that contribute to the creation of compelling visual stories.
Junior Storyboard Artist
An introductory role, perfect for newcomers to the industry. Junior Storyboard Artists work under supervision to sketch out basic scenes, learn the ropes of visual storytelling, and assist senior artists in refining storyboards.
Storyboard Artist
The foundational role in the storyboard department, responsible for converting written scripts into sequential art. Storyboard Artists collaborate closely with directors and writers to create the visual blueprint for productions.
Senior Storyboard Artist
With more experience, these artists lead storyboard creation for complex scenes and may oversee a team of junior artists. Senior Storyboard Artists contribute to critical decisions in the storytelling process and ensure continuity and cohesiveness in visual narratives.
Storyboard Supervisor
A leadership role that involves managing the storyboard team and ensuring that all artists are aligned with the director's vision. Storyboard Supervisors review all storyboards for consistency and quality, providing feedback and guidance to their team.
Lead Storyboard Artist
Often synonymous with Storyboard Supervisor, the Lead Storyboard Artist takes charge of the most crucial sequences and may work directly with top-level production staff to shape the project's overall visual style.
Storyboard Director
A senior position that oversees the entire storyboard department, ensuring that the visual storytelling aligns with the production's creative goals. Storyboard Directors have a significant impact on the final product and often have years of industry experience.
Concept Artist
While not a storyboard-specific role, Concept Artists are closely related professionals who design characters, environments, and other elements that define the visual style of the production, often working alongside storyboard artists.
Each title within the Storyboard Artist career path offers unique challenges and requires a specialized skill set. As artists progress through these roles, they gain a deeper understanding of visual storytelling and the opportunity to shape the narratives of diverse media projects.
Storyboard Artist Job Title Hierarchy
Junior Storyboard Artist
Storyboard Revisionist
Storyboard Trainee
Storyboard Assistant
Storyboard Artist
Storyboard Artist II
Visual Storyboard Artist
Freelance Storyboard Artist
Senior Storyboard Artist
Lead Storyboard Artist
Senior Visual Storyboard Artist
Storyboard Supervisor
Storyboard Director
Storyboard Team Lead
Head Storyboard Artist
Animation Director (Storyboard Focus)
Creative Director - Storyboarding
Director of Storyboarding
VP of Story & Art
Chief Storyboard ExecutiveTop Storyboard Artist Job Titles by Level
Entry Level Job Titles
Embarking on a career as a Storyboard Artist can be an exciting journey into the world of animation, film, and television. Entry-level positions in this field are crafted to introduce budding artists to the intricacies of visual storytelling, character design, and scene layout. These roles provide essential experience in understanding narrative flow and the collaborative nature of production work. Here are five common entry-level job titles for Storyboard Artists, each offering a unique opportunity to develop the skills necessary for a successful career in this creative industry.
Storyboard Revisionist
Storyboard Revisionists are tasked with refining and altering storyboards after the initial drafts. Working under the direction of more experienced artists, they make adjustments to scenes and sequences to better align with the director's vision, ensuring continuity and clarity in the storytelling process.
Junior Storyboard Artist
Junior Storyboard Artists begin their careers by working on smaller projects or specific parts of a larger production. They learn to translate scripts into visual sequences, creating the blueprint for the final product while gaining valuable insight into narrative pacing and shot composition.
Storyboard Assistant
Storyboard Assistants support lead artists by preparing materials, organizing files, and sometimes drawing rough sketches. Their role is crucial in maintaining the workflow and helping the storyboard department meet its deadlines.
Animation Trainee/Intern
Animation Trainees or Interns often have the opportunity to work in storyboard departments, where they can observe and assist with the storyboard process. This hands-on experience is invaluable for understanding the end-to-end production pipeline and the role of storyboarding within it.
Visual Development Artist
Visual Development Artists at the entry level work on conceptualizing and designing characters, environments, and other elements for animation projects. While not exclusively focused on storyboarding, this role develops an artist's understanding of the visual language that is essential for effective storytelling in storyboards.
Mid Level Job Titles
Storyboard Artists play a pivotal role in the pre-production phase of animation and film projects, translating scripts into visual sequences that serve as a blueprint for the production team. As they progress to mid-level positions, Storyboard Artists are expected to have a strong grasp of storytelling, cinematography, and character development, along with the ability to collaborate effectively with directors and other departments. Below are five key mid-level job titles for Storyboard Artists, each representing a significant step in their career growth.
Storyboard Artist
Mid-level Storyboard Artists are responsible for creating detailed storyboards that visually narrate the script. They must convey the essence of the storyline, character motion, and camera angles, working closely with the director to ensure the vision for the project is accurately depicted.
Storyboard Revisionist
Storyboard Revisionists play a crucial role in refining storyboards. They make adjustments based on feedback from directors, producers, and other team members, ensuring that the storyboards align with the evolving vision of the project. Their work is essential for maintaining the quality and continuity of the visual story.
Assistant Director (AD) - Storyboard
As an Assistant Director in the storyboard department, this professional supports the director by overseeing the storyboard creation process, managing timelines, and ensuring that the storyboards meet the project's creative objectives. They often act as a liaison between the storyboard artists and the director.
Storyboard Supervisor
Storyboard Supervisors oversee the storyboard team, providing guidance and feedback to artists. They ensure that the storyboards are consistent with the project's style and narrative. This role requires strong leadership skills and the ability to maintain a cohesive vision across multiple sequences.
Visual Development Artist - Storyboarding
Visual Development Artists specializing in storyboarding focus on the look and feel of the storyboards. They work on character designs, backgrounds, and color scripts in the early stages of production to establish the visual language and mood for the storyboards that follow.
Senior Level Job Titles
Embarking on a career as a Storyboard Artist can be an exciting journey into the world of animation, film, and television. Entry-level positions in this field are crafted to introduce budding artists to the intricacies of visual storytelling, character design, and scene layout. These roles provide essential experience in understanding narrative flow and the collaborative nature of production work. Here are five common entry-level job titles for Storyboard Artists, each offering a unique opportunity to develop the skills necessary for a successful career in this creative industry.
Storyboard Revisionist
Storyboard Revisionists are tasked with refining and altering storyboards after the initial drafts. Working under the direction of more experienced artists, they make adjustments to scenes and sequences to better align with the director's vision, ensuring continuity and clarity in the storytelling process.
Junior Storyboard Artist
Junior Storyboard Artists begin their careers by working on smaller projects or specific parts of a larger production. They learn to translate scripts into visual sequences, creating the blueprint for the final product while gaining valuable insight into narrative pacing and shot composition.
Storyboard Assistant
Storyboard Assistants support lead artists by preparing materials, organizing files, and sometimes drawing rough sketches. Their role is crucial in maintaining the workflow and helping the storyboard department meet its deadlines.
Animation Trainee/Intern
Animation Trainees or Interns often have the opportunity to work in storyboard departments, where they can observe and assist with the storyboard process. This hands-on experience is invaluable for understanding the end-to-end production pipeline and the role of storyboarding within it.
Visual Development Artist
Visual Development Artists at the entry level work on conceptualizing and designing characters, environments, and other elements for animation projects. While not exclusively focused on storyboarding, this role develops an artist's understanding of the visual language that is essential for effective storytelling in storyboards.
Director Level Job Titles
Director-level roles in Storyboard Artistry are marked by creative leadership, advanced storytelling skills, and a significant impact on the visual narrative of projects. These positions demand a mastery of visual communication, an understanding of cinematic techniques, and the ability to guide teams towards a cohesive vision. Here are five prominent director-level job titles for Storyboard Artists who are looking to advance their careers beyond senior roles but are not yet at the VP level.
Director of Storyboarding
The Director of Storyboarding leads the storyboard department, setting the visual storytelling standards and ensuring that all storyboards align with the director's vision and the project's narrative goals. They are responsible for guiding the storyboard artists and reviewing their work to maintain consistency and quality throughout the production.
Art Director (Storyboards)
An Art Director specializing in storyboards focuses on the aesthetic and stylistic elements of visual storytelling. They work closely with the Director of Storyboarding to develop the project's visual style and ensure that each frame effectively conveys the intended emotion and narrative pacing.
Director of Visual Development
Responsible for the overall visual direction of a project, the Director of Visual Development collaborates with storyboard artists, concept artists, and production designers. They establish the visual language and ensure that the storyboarding process supports the project's artistic vision from concept to final execution.
Animation Director (Storyboards)
The Animation Director with a focus on storyboards oversees the translation of storyboards into animated sequences. They ensure that the storyboard artists' work is feasible for animators to execute and that it results in fluid and compelling animation that enhances the storytelling.
Creative Director (Storyboards)
While overseeing the creative aspects of storyboarding, the Creative Director ensures that all visual elements serve the story effectively. They work across various departments to align the storyboards with the narrative, audio, and animation, fostering a collaborative environment where the storyboard artists' work is integral to the project's creative success.
VP Level Job Titles
Ascending to a VP-level position as a Storyboard Artist reflects a significant shift from hands-on creative work to strategic oversight within the animation, film, or gaming industries. Individuals in these roles are expected to guide the creative vision, manage large teams of artists, and ensure that the storytelling aligns with the broader business and production goals. Here are five prominent VP-level job titles for Storyboard Artists, each representing a critical role in shaping the narrative and visual direction of a company's projects.
Vice President of Creative Development
This title signifies a senior role where the individual is responsible for overseeing the creative development of all projects. They work closely with directors and producers to ensure the storyboarding process aligns with the creative vision and is executed effectively across all productions.
VP of Animation and Storyboarding
Focusing on the intersection of animation and storyboarding, this role involves leading both departments to create cohesive and compelling visual stories. The VP of Animation and Storyboarding ensures that storyboard artists and animators collaborate effectively to bring the narrative to life.
VP of Art and Design
This role is centered on the overall visual and artistic direction of a company's projects. The VP of Art and Design oversees the storyboarding artists as well as the design teams to ensure consistency and quality in the visual storytelling across all media.
VP of Production
While not exclusively a storyboard artist role, the VP of Production has a significant impact on the storyboarding process as they oversee the entire production pipeline. This includes ensuring that the storyboarding phase is well-integrated and serves the production's timelines and objectives.
VP of Story and Franchise Development
This executive role focuses on the broader narrative development of a company's intellectual properties. The VP of Story and Franchise Development works to ensure that storyboarding contributes to the long-term storytelling strategies and the expansion of the company's franchises across various platforms.
How to Advance Your Current Storyboard Artist Title
In the dynamic realm of animation and film, advancing your title as a Storyboard Artist in 2024 means honing your visual storytelling, technical skills, and collaborative abilities. Here are pivotal tips to propel your career and transition into more senior Storyboard Artist roles.
Master Visual Storytelling Techniques
As a Storyboard Artist, your primary role is to convey the narrative visually. Refine your understanding of cinematography, composition, and pacing to create compelling and coherent storyboards that resonate with directors and enhance the storytelling process.
Enhance Technical Proficiency
The industry's tools are constantly evolving. Elevate your technical skills by becoming proficient in the latest storyboard software and digital tools. This technical agility can set you apart and make you an invaluable asset to any production team.
Build a Diverse Portfolio
A versatile portfolio showcasing a range of styles, genres, and mediums can demonstrate your adaptability and creativity. Continuously update your portfolio with your best work to attract attention from top studios and secure more advanced positions.
Cultivate Effective Communication Skills
Storyboard Artists must effectively communicate ideas to a variety of stakeholders. Develop your ability to present storyboards and articulate your vision clearly to directors, animators, and other team members to ensure your concepts are understood and appreciated.
Seek Feedback and Collaborate
Progressing in your career often involves learning from others. Actively seek constructive feedback on your work and be open to collaboration. This can lead to improved skills, new perspectives, and stronger professional relationships that are essential for career advancement.
Network and Stay Informed
The animation and film industries are tightly knit communities. Network with other professionals, attend industry events, and stay informed about the latest trends and techniques. Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities and higher storyboard artist titles.
Similar Storyboard Artist Careers & Titles
The role of a Storyboard Artist is a unique blend of visual storytelling and cinematic planning, essential for pre-visualizing the narrative of films, television shows, and commercials. As a Storyboard Artist, you have the opportunity to expand your creative horizons and enhance your career by exploring related fields that value your ability to visualize stories and communicate ideas effectively. These alternative or complementary careers not only offer new challenges and experiences but also allow you to leverage your existing skills in different contexts, potentially leading to career advancement and personal growth.
Concept Artist
Concept Artists are the visionaries who create the initial visual representations of characters, environments, and other elements within a project. Like Storyboard Artists, they translate narrative elements into compelling imagery. Advancing to a Concept Artist role can be a natural progression, allowing for more creative freedom in defining the look and feel of a project.
Animation Director
Animation Directors oversee the animation process, ensuring that the final product aligns with the director's vision. Storyboard Artists who excel at visual storytelling and have a keen understanding of animation may find this role a fitting advancement, as it requires a similar skill set but with added leadership responsibilities.
Illustrator
Illustrators create visual representations for books, magazines, and other media, often requiring a strong narrative element. The transition from Storyboard Artist to Illustrator can be seamless, as both roles demand a high level of creativity and the ability to convey stories through images.
Art Director
Art Directors are responsible for the overall visual style of a production. They work closely with Storyboard Artists and other members of the art department. Moving into an Art Director position can be a significant step up, as it involves guiding the visual narrative and managing a team to create a cohesive aesthetic.
Screenwriter
Screenwriters craft the written narrative for films and television. A Storyboard Artist with a talent for writing and a deep understanding of visual storytelling could consider a career as a Screenwriter, where they can bring stories to life from the page to the screen, influencing the project from its inception.
FAQs about Storyboard Artist Titles
How do Storyboard Artist job titles vary across industries?
Storyboard Artist job titles often reflect the media or production focus. In animation and film, you might see 'Feature Storyboard Artist', indicating work on full-length features. Television often uses 'TV Storyboard Artist', suggesting a pace suited for episodic content. In advertising, titles like 'Commercial Storyboard Artist' are common, highlighting a knack for persuasive, short-form storytelling. Video games may employ 'Game Cinematic Storyboard Artist', requiring an understanding of interactive narrative flow. Each industry molds the Storyboard Artist role to fit its storytelling medium, maintaining the essence of visualizing scripts while diverging in the nuances of genre, format, and audience engagement.
Are there any emerging job titles for Storyboard Artists that are gaining popularity?
Certainly, the field of Storyboarding is evolving with new titles such as 'Virtual Reality Storyboard Artist', focusing on immersive storytelling for VR experiences. 'Interactive Storyboard Artist' is another emerging role, specializing in creating storyboards for interactive media like video games and mobile apps. Additionally, 'Transmedia Storyboard Artist' reflects the growing need for artists adept at visualizing narratives across multiple platforms, from films to digital content. These roles highlight the industry's expansion into new media and the increasing importance of versatile storytelling techniques.
Which Storyboard Artist job title has the highest salary potential?
In the realm of Storyboard Artists, those with titles like 'Lead Storyboard Artist' or 'Storyboard Supervisor' typically have the highest salary potential. These positions involve overseeing the storyboard department, mentoring junior artists, and ensuring the visual storytelling aligns with the director's vision. The increased compensation reflects their advanced expertise, leadership responsibilities, and pivotal role in the pre-production phase of animation or film projects, which can significantly influence the project's narrative and pacing.
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Storyboard Artist Work-Life Balance
