The director sends detailed descriptions and multiple visual references to the illustrator assigned to a particular scene. In this case, the above visual reference gives the idea of a bridge disappearing into heavy fog.

Image from “A Journey to Hope” by The Mill

An effective storyboard sketch suggests a clear point-of-view, identifies the main elements, and provides a concept to be developed over a few weeks. This sketch also establishes a motion path, and the intended moody vibe.

With each draft, new details emerge to be considered and confirmed by the director. Here, we see a rendering that shows vehicle spacing, and a cream colored line to mark where a more detailed shoreline will exist in the next rendition. The director gives detailed feedback until the illustration is complete.

A final draft unveils a suspension bridge stretching out at dusk over sparkling blue waters. Each layer has to be individually analyzed and additional frames painted with the future animation goals in mind. For example, as the cars move across the bridge, the road should reveal itself to the viewers. This marks a major difference between static illustration and motion-oriented illustration.