Music Video Script Template
Music Video Script Template
Music videos may not have much in the way of dialogue or plot, but they still require a script. An AV script will allow you to have a comprehensive idea of what your video will look like before you get to set.
With StudioBinder’s AV script writing software, you can create a blueprint for your project without having to worry about formatting headaches.
How to make a music video script
No two music videos look the same, but there is a relatively standardized AV script format you can take to make sure your shoot runs smoothly. We’ll be using StudioBinder to illustrate each step, but this is the universal process for using any music video script template.
Steps in this guide
Step 1
1. Develop your idea
As we said, music videos can look extremely different. Once you know the specific type of music video you're creating, you can add a description on the tone and direction while refining the script's structure to suit your needs.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Add a description to guide the entire creative process.
- Build segments and banners to create a structure.
Step 2
2. Transcribe the lyrics
In the left hand “audio” column, you’ll want to include lyrics or musical cues. Split these up in accordance with different visuals, or based on the structure of the song (like chorus, verse, etc.).
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Use italics or bold to indicate different sounds.
- Add hyperlinks to sections of the song.
Pro Tip — In the edit, you may decide to go in a different direction. But by having visuals written out for each section of the song, you can guarantee that you’ll have enough to make a video.
Step 3
3. Write out the visuals
In the right-hand “visuals” column, describe the imagery that complement the song. This includes character actions, choreography, and other visual elements such as shot size, camera angles, and camera movement. Think of it as a sort of shot list or, if you want to be more detailed, a storyboard.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Use hyperlinks to reference footage or inspiration.
- Import images into the image column.
Step 4
4. Note timing
Timing is everything when it comes to a music video. Usually, you’re locked into the timing of the song. So for each section of the script, write down how long that segment of the song is.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Add durations to each row.
- Check the total duration tallied automatically at the bottom of the script.
Pro Tip — Sometimes a band may want a prelude before the song begins, or an interlude where the song cuts out. Make sure you’re on the same page about when and how long those moments may be.
Step 5
5. Share with collaborators
You’ve got an invigorating script for a music video, but there are other people you’ll need to run it by, like the artist, their management, and your own collaborators. It’s time to share the script for their thoughts.
How to do this in StudioBinder
- Share the script with a view only link.
- Add collaborators who can insert comments.
- Resolve comments when they are addressed.
Conclusion
Music video script completed
Congrats — after you’ve done these five steps, your script is complete! Time to start jamming out on set.
The music video script template is only one of StudioBinder’s many templates. Check out our entire collection of AV script templates.
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