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Animation Storyboard Template

Use this template
Animation Storyboard Template, within the Milanote app

Visualize the outline for an animation project

Organize and validate the central concepts behind your next animation project with a storyboard. It's an ideal starting point to share your ideas and convey the narrative of your animation, scene by scene.

Map out the visuals, script, and animation details of each scene in one place. Document the camera angles, timings, characters, narrative, and dialogue so nothing falls through the cracks.

Milanote helps you create a visual plan for the entire production, spot missing pieces, and share concepts early to ensure everyone is aligned before moving on to an animation tool.

  • Explore ideas
  • Organize visually
  • Share with your team & clients
  • Gather feedback
  • Export to PDF

How to use this template

Whether you’re an animator, creative director, or a client, follow this step-by-step guide to learn the modern process of creating a storyboard in Milanote, a free tool used by top creatives.

This professional animation storyboard template is also the perfect format for creating a 2d animation storyboard, a 3d animation storyboard, and even an anime storyboard.

1. Start with an empty template

The Animation Storyboard template contains empty columns for the key parts of your story. Just drag and drop your images into each column and describe the actions to create an engaging storyboard in minutes.

Milanote animation storyboard template step01
How to do this in Milanote

  1. Create a new board for your storyboard.

    Create a new board

    Drag a board out from the toolbar. Give it a name, then double click to open it.

  2. Choose a storyboard template.

    Choose a template

    Each new board gives you the option to start with a beautiful template.

2. Map out the key scenes

When creating a storyboard, it’s crucial to know what story you’re telling. The best starting point is to break up the script or narrative you’ll be working from. Identify the key scenes and start to map them out on your storyboard.

Milanote animation storyboard template step02
How to do this in Milanote

  1. Update the column titles to match the key scenes.

3. Add images or sketches

Now it’s time to begin visualizing each scene. Some storyboard artists might begin sketching with a pen and paper first, but with modern storyboards you can collect reference photography, illustrations, screenshots, location shoots, and even motion from anywhere.

Milanote animation storyboard template step03
How to do this in Milanote

  1. Use the built-in image library.

    Use the built-in image library

    Search over 3 million beautiful, free photos then drag images straight onto your board. Powered by Pexels.

  2. Upload images from your computer.

    Upload a file or document

    Click the "Upload" button or just drag a file onto your board. You can add images, logos, documents, videos, audio and much more.

4. Describe what happens in each frame

While each frame is a static image, try to communicate how it's going to look and feel as a moving sequence. Describes the style, mood, and behavior of any characters. Consider how you'll transition from one scene to the next. Add details about the sound or voice-over to help your team imagine the emotion and drama you're trying to create.

Milanote animation storyboard template step04
How to do this in Milanote

  1. Add a note to describe each frame.

    Drag a note card onto your board

    Start typing then use the formatting tools in the left hand toolbar.

5. Share it with your team

When you're ready, invite your team to review your storyboard and share their feedback. This is the perfect moment to see how others interpret your vision for the story. It's also a great opportunity to make any final tweaks while in pre-production. Adjust the order of your frames or edit the content based on everyone's feedback.

Milanote animation storyboard template step06
How to do this in Milanote

  1. Share the storyboard with your team.

    Invite editors to your board

    Open the "Share" menu from the title bar of your board. Add email addresses of the people you'd like to collaborate with—they'll receive an invitation via email.

  2. Start a comment thread.

    Start a comment thread

    Drag out a comment from the toolbar on the left and place it on your board. Other editors can reply to your comment.

  3. Mention teammates to get their attention.

    Mention teammates to get their attention

    Type '@' in any text field to mention someone who has access to your board. They'll receive a notification and be able to respond to your comment.

Pro tip:

You can export your storyboard as a PNG, PDF, or even a Word document. This is an easy way to print your board, share it with clients, or convert it into a standard format that can be used in other places.

You're done!

Now that your storyboard is complete, you have a clear vision for your project! Remember, just as creativity and inspiration are constantly evolving, so are ideas. Come back and edit your storyboard when inspiration strikes.

You might find the following templates useful for your next creative project:

Start your Animation Storyboard

Visualize the outline for your next animation project

Start your Animation Storyboard

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