What is the purpose of a storyboard in video production?

The purpose of a storyboard in video production is to visualize the narrative structure. A storyboard serves as a visual planning tool where scenes are illustrated in sequential order, providing a framework for how the story will unfold. It incorporates sketches or images that represent various shots along with notes about movements, dialogue, and actions to convey the flow of the narrative. This helps directors, cinematographers, and other crew members understand how to piece together the story visually before the actual filming begins. The clarity that a storyboard provides can enhance collaboration among the production team and ensure that the final product aligns with the intended vision.

The other choices pertain to different aspects of production but do not capture the primary function of a storyboard. Listing production costs relates to budgeting, outlining crew roles pertains to the logistical organization of the team, and analyzing the target audience focuses on marketing strategy. None of these functions aligns with the core purpose of visualizing and planning the narrative structure that a storyboard provides.