Animation Process
Have you ever wondered how animations come to life? How do we make something still, move?
Once our graphic designers finalise the concept and the still images of characters, shapes, logos or props that we are going to feature in the animation, the first step for the animators involves meticulous organisation.
Every component undergoes methodical categorisation into layers, ensuring a structured canvas for what follows. Characters are deconstructed into their essential parts – heads, necks, torsos, legs and more. Imagine a digital puppet is being assembled. Mimicking the intricacies of the human form, animators ensure that figures move in a natural and realistic manner, paying close attention to details like facial expressions and body language. Backgrounds and props receive similar treatment allowing for granular adjustments in position, rotation, scale and opacity.
In animation, rotation and movement revolve around anchor points, much like the joints in our bodies. These anchor points serve as the central axis around which objects pivot and rotate, allowing for fluid movement within the animations. These anchor points often need to be moved or adjusted to ensure that everything acts in accordance with the laws of physics.
Only at this point can you actually get started with animation. By plotting out the desired movement and adjusting the timeline accordingly, keyframes are created that mark the beginning and end of each movement. This method ensures smooth transitions between frames, allowing objects to move seamlessly within the animation. Throughout this creative process, organisation remains paramount. With hundreds of files and layers to manage, meticulous labelling and colour-coding ensures smooth workflow, preventing a chaotic digital workspace.
Timing and rhythm are crucial aspects of animation production. Striking the right balance is essential; the pacing shouldn’t be too slow, yet it also shouldn’t feel rushed or frantic. The addition of a voice over can help establish the right tempo. Sometimes animators must manipulate these voice overs slightly, allowing for moments of pause to let information sink in, especially when dealing with lists or complex concepts. Similarly choosing the right music is crucial. The ideal track will have a tone and pace that complements the visual narrative without overshadowing it, captivating the audience without overwhelming them.
Incorporating sound effects into animations adds another layer of depth and immersion. From subtle environmental noises to impactful actions, sound effects can be another way for animators to bring visuals to life. By carefully selecting and timing sound effects, animators can evoke emotions, establish atmosphere and guide the audience’s attention, ultimately making the animation more engaging and memorable.
At Senate Media, we prioritise continuous learning and growth for our animators. We understand the importance of staying abreast of the latest developments in the animation sphere, from advancements in 3D technology to emerging trends in storytelling techniques and approaches. By providing our team with dedicated time and resources for professional development, we empower them to explore new tools, techniques and approaches. This commitment ensures that our animations remain innovative, engaging and at the forefront of industry standards.
Animation requires a medley of skills, from the nuanced choreography of movement to the subtle interplay of sound combined with organisation. It is both technical precision and artistic flair that allows our animators to craft narratives that resonate with such authenticity and depth.
