Class #16: 3D Storyboarding (Stan Winston School Diary #13)

Before this class, I had never storyboarded. And, I had never animated or designed anything using 3D software. Guess what happened from all of that? Martians Take Belfast!, the short film I created from this lesson’s learning, is the first 3D animated work I have ever made. Prior to this, it was all 2D work. Awesomeness.

3D storyboarding is like 2D storyboarding, sort of.

What is different, as far as I can tell from not having taken the 2D storyboarding class yet: you have to pop in models of people/animals, structures, and any backgrounds. Use transparent 2D images if you like woven into the 3D!

The lesson is taught by Suicide Squad’s Andrés “Drew” Garcia-Price as a straight how to on any 3D program. He recommends AutoDesk Maya or Blender, and I can tell you a few professional FX people do use Blender. Don’t knock it because of the free software. Blender is like the Windows vs. Mac argument. You might like both or have a fav.

Playing around with 3D software if you feel confused by the video is OK because YouTube has plenty of tutorials on both programs, unofficially and officially.

“Why should I learn storyboarding?”

• To be a storyboard artist.

• To get well acquainted with 3D software as a future FX designer.

• To be a better film director. Storyboarding your own material, or collaborating with the storyboard artist(s) of your choice, is your goal.

“Can I watch your short film?”

Click play below and grab your popcorn!