previsualize
Picture it beforehand
To previsualize is to form a mental image of something before it exists or before encountering it.
Photographers and filmmakers previsualize shots—imagining framing, lighting, and composition before picking up a camera: She spent weeks previsualizing the opening sequence.
The term emphasizes deliberate imagination as preparation, distinct from merely anticipating or expecting.
Picture in thought
- imagineForm mental pictures
- conceptualizeForm a mental picture
- pictureVisual depiction of something
- foreseePredict future events
anticipate · project · contemplate · ideate · conceive · forecast · predict · expect
Planned visual sequence drawings
- sketchHasty informal drawing
- mockupPreliminary design representation
- wireframeEdge-only geometric model
- draftPreliminary version of text
thumbnail · layout · rough · comp · animatic · blocking · staging · moodboard
Planning before creation begins
- blockingImpeding forward progress
- sequenceOrdered succession of elements
- VFXDigital film effects
- cinematographyMotion picture visual craft
director · edit · pacing · composition · framing · coverage · animatic
Interpretive depiction or performance
- simulationImitation of real processes
- CGIDigital movie imagery
- UnrealGame development middleware
- MayaAncient Mesoamerican people
Uncertain possible event
- chessStrategic board game
- what-ifHypothetical scenario query
- simulationImitation of real processes
- rehearsalPre-performance practice session
envision
Picture in thought
- imagineForm mental pictures
- conceptualizeForm a mental picture
- pictureVisual depiction of something
foresee · anticipate · project · contemplate · ideate · conceive · forecast · predict · expect · prepare
storyboard
Planned visual sequence drawings
- sketchHasty informal drawing
- mockupPreliminary design representation
- wireframeEdge-only geometric model
draft · thumbnail · layout · rough · comp · animatic · blocking · staging · moodboard · prototype
preproduction
Planning before creation begins
cinematography · director · edit · pacing · composition · framing · coverage · animatic
rendering
Interpretive depiction or performance
- simulationImitation of real processes
- CGIDigital movie imagery
- UnrealGame development middleware
contingency
Uncertain possible event
- chessStrategic board game
- what-ifHypothetical scenario query
- simulationImitation of real processes
previsualizeimprovise
Perform without preparation
wing it · ad-lib · extemporize · play it by ear · shoot from the hip