The Magic of Storytelling
Since the dawn of time, storytelling has been an essential aspect of human development.
From the pictographs of cave dwellers to epic feature films, it documents who we are at that point in our evolution. Our hopes, dreams and desires, our moral and social code. Applying thoughtful storytelling to any production will keep the viewer engaged, but it’s not simply about the who, what, why, where and when.
The Art of Story
Strong storytelling takes us on a journey, with a clear beginning, middle and end. This journey is known as the story or narrative arc. It should be strong, simple and clear. It can be told in 30 seconds, 3 minutes, or 3 hours… but always contains the same elements; catch, hold, release.
Connecting on an emotional level, utilizing a character or situation most can relate with, helps the viewer adjust expectation and lower our natural defense. We’re pre-wired to anticipate the sales pitch or hesitate when viewing clearly self-serving content. Viewers don’t want to be told what to do, they want to be entertained. Telling a strong, relatable story does that.
The old saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” holds true. Through the magical visual medium of film and video, at an average 24 pictures per second, we can share volumes.
Story can also be conveyed with:
Added emphasis can be applied with proper timing, utilizing a dramatic pause or even silence, the music crescendo, a sound effect hit, fast paced edits, or slow dissolves. Every layer, every element, every frame should be carefully crafted to weave the overall fabric of story.
Storytelling Provides a Common Language
Engrained in the human condition, we crave understanding of who we are, where we come from, how we got here. We thrive on inspiration, hope, that vision of what could be and what will become. Storytelling provides that spark, illuminating pathways to new ideas, concepts and direction. Whatever story one wishes to share, it all starts with an idea. What do you wish to share, and how do you get there?
