A storyboard template is only useful if its panels already ask the right questions. Blank rectangles waste time — panels with shot-size, lens, duration and audio footers turn a sketch into a shootable board.
Template panel counts
| Panels | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | Quick visual sequence, one joke, simple insert | Will not hold a 30s spot |
| 8 | Short commercial, product demo | Good for social media ads |
| 12 | Most 15–30s commercials | Cut beats before adding panels |
| 16 | 30s spot with coverage | Standard production board |
| 24 | Dialogue scenes, music videos, short films | Pair with an animatic |
Footer fields on every panel
Every CineoBoard template includes these fields below each panel:
- Scene number and shot code
- Shot size (WS / MS / CU / ECU)
- Lens and camera movement
- Duration in seconds
- Audio (dialogue, VO, SFX, music)
- Notes (VFX, legal, product placement)
Aspect ratio
Set 16:9 for most film and YouTube content, 9:16 for Shorts and Stories, 1:1 only if the buy is actually square. Changing ratio after you draw is a recrop, not a template.
How to use these templates
- Pick a panel count and layout above
- Open the template in Storyboard Creator
- Drop illustrated scenes and characters into each cell
- Fill the shot footers as you block
- Export PDF for the crew or share a live link
Printable vs. digital
Printable PDFs work for on-set reference. Digital boards in CineoBoard let you rearrange panels, swap characters and update shot notes in real time. Start with the PDF if you prefer pen and paper, then move to the editor when the sequence gets complex.
FAQ
Are these storyboard templates free?
The templates are free to open and use. CineoBoard offers a free 6-cell board. Full Creator is $4.99 for the first 30 days, then $11.99/month.
Can I print these templates?
Yes. Every template exports to PDF for printing. The PDF includes all footer fields.
Do you have blank storyboard templates?
Yes. Open any template above and clear the panels to get a blank grid with the footer structure intact.
What is the best storyboard template for beginners?
Start with the 8-panel template. It holds enough beats for a simple sequence without overwhelming new storyboard artists.