Multiple cameras can be added to the set. Cameras can be zoomed, craned, panned and tilted to specific focal lengths and distances, respectively. The screen is set up to represent a television studio control room. In Blueprint mode, users get a bird’s eye view of the set, allowing artists to generate a floor plan. One can move from the Blueprint view to the view of each camera on the set with a click of the mouse. Once the set and shot are final, stills can be recorded and saved. For even more detail, saved stills can be imported into a paint program and extra details can be added. Shots can be compiled into a slideshow with adjustable shot lengths.

There are multiple ways to present the storyboards once they are created. Scripts can be imported into the program and aligned with the corresponding shots. Finished boards can also be printed in grayscale or full color. In addition, the storyboards can be exported to Flash for posting on the Internet or to Powerpoint and/or Final Cut to be compiled into presentations.

Community Outreach
Another one of the advantages of the software is the helpful and dedicated community site, www.frameforge3d.com/community. The Website is a place for users to download free updates, add suggestions, ask questions and get their questions answered. In addition, improved objects or objects created through the building blocks in the program can be shared with other users. For instance, I posted that there wasn’t a brush in the library of objects. Within a few days, another forum member had constructed one and posted it for me to download. Innoventive Software moderators often help users with their needs. One user asked for a subway scene and soon one was ready to download.

Is It All Worth It?
So you may ask — how easy is the software to use? Any moderately computer-literate person will probably not even have to crack the manual to get started. However, the text provided with the software is very easy to follow, and explains the extent of what can be done quickly and efficiently. At first, it takes time to construct a set, especially if the set is very detailed. However, once your unique characters and sets are finished, the process moves much quicker and scenes can be pounded out in no time. Plus, any problem you may be having is usually answered in a timely fashion on the community site.

Imported scripts (left) can be aligned with finalized storyboards. Sets are easily constructed with drag-and-drop controls (right).

If you can’t draw, this program will give you the ability to create far better storyboards than you’d have using stick figures. For a smaller production, FrameForge 3D could be an essential tool for communicating between the director and other artists like the cinematographer and the art department. For students, I think the program can be an amazing teaching tool. It is an easy, cheap, hands-on way for students to learn the basics of filmmaking from lens to blocking out scenes. In turn, both independent filmmakers and students will save time and, ultimately, money by having shots and camera set-ups mapped out completely from camera height to lens choice before they even get to the location.