Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Timing Charts • Clean Up • Sequence

Establishing Shot

Term from Animation Storyboarding industry explained for recruiters

An Establishing Shot is a wide, opening view that shows where a story takes place. It's like giving the audience a bird's eye view of the location before zooming in on the action. In animation and film storyboarding, it's usually one of the first drawings that sets up a new scene, showing important details like time of day, location, and overall atmosphere. Think of it as the "Where are we?" shot that helps viewers understand the setting before the specific action begins.

Examples in Resumes

Created detailed Establishing Shot sequences for animated feature film opening scenes

Developed Establishing Shots and environment layouts for television series storyboards

Collaborated with directors to design impactful Establishing Shot compositions for animated shorts

Typical job title: "Storyboard Artists"

Also try searching for:

Storyboard Artist Layout Artist Animation Artist Visual Development Artist Background Artist Concept Artist Scene Planner

Where to Find Storyboard Artists

Online Communities

Professional Networks

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach designing establishing shots for different animation styles?

Expected Answer: A senior artist should explain how they adapt their approach based on the project's style - whether it's 2D, 3D, or stop-motion, and how they consider factors like mood, audience, and story requirements.

Q: How do you mentor junior artists in creating effective establishing shots?

Expected Answer: Should discuss teaching methods for composition, perspective, and storytelling elements, plus how they help others develop their skills while maintaining production schedules.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you work with directors to achieve their vision for establishing shots?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process of receiving feedback, making revisions, and collaborating with directors to create shots that serve the story while meeting technical requirements.

Q: What factors do you consider when designing an establishing shot?

Expected Answer: Should discuss elements like time of day, weather, mood, character placement, and how these choices affect storytelling.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What makes a good establishing shot?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic principles of composition, perspective, and how establishing shots help orient viewers to a new scene.

Q: How do you use reference materials when creating establishing shots?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of gathering and using reference images, photos, and other materials to create accurate and convincing establishing shots.