What a Storyboard Artist Actually Does for Your Production
A storyboard artist translates a script or a director's vision into a sequence of visual panels, shot by shot. On a well-run production, those boards become a shared language between the director, DP, AD, and department heads. Before you spend money on locations, lighting rigs, or talent, the boards let you stress-test shot lists, identify continuity problems, and communicate complex action or visual effects sequences to people who have not read every draft of the script.
Beyond traditional panel-style boards, many New York storyboard artists also offer animatics, which add basic movement and timing to the panels, giving you something closer to a rough cut before production begins. For commercials and branded content, animatics are often standard deliverables that agencies and clients expect to review before a shoot is approved.
What to Look for When Hiring in New York
New York has a deep pool of storyboard talent, drawn from its advertising, film, animation, and editorial industries. When you are evaluating candidates, look for these qualities:
- A portfolio that matches your format - narrative film boards read differently from fast-cut commercial boards or visual effects breakdowns.
- Experience working under production schedules, not just personal projects. A storyboard artist on a professional shoot needs to turn panels quickly, often incorporating director notes on the fly.
- Clear communication and the ability to take feedback. The best artists iterate fast without losing the visual logic of a sequence.
- Familiarity with the tools your production uses, whether that is Photoshop, Storyboard Pro, or even clean hand-drawn boards, depending on your workflow and budget.
Rates for Storyboard Artists in New York
Rates in New York vary depending on the scope of the project, the artist's experience level, and whether you are hiring union or non-union. Storyboard artists typically quote either a day rate or a per-panel rate. Day rates for experienced artists in New York are typically higher than in many other US markets, reflecting both the cost of living and the density of high-budget commercial and advertising work in the city. For straightforward projects, newer artists may offer more accessible rates, while seasoned artists with advertising or studio feature credits will sit at the higher end of the range. Always clarify what the rate includes, how many rounds of revisions are expected, and whether animatics are a separate line item.
How NeedaCrew Helps You Find the Right Person Fast
NeedaCrew is a US and Canada marketplace built specifically for film and TV crew hiring. Every crew member on the platform is verified, so you are not sorting through cold leads. You can post your project with the details that matter - format, timeline, rate, and location - and connect directly with storyboard artists who are available and based in or near New York.
If you are a producer or production coordinator ready to staff your next project, post your project on NeedaCrew and start hearing from qualified storyboard artists today.
If you are a storyboard artist looking for your next gig in New York, join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get discovered by productions actively hiring.