How Can I Learn Animation?
What Is Animation?
Before we go into the intricacies of how modern animation began, it’s best to first answer the question “what’s animation?”. Animation is the art of combining static images together in a sequence to give the illusion that they’re moving.
You can choose to either draw animated graphics by hand or use computer-generated images (CGI) to bring objects and characters alive.
You can create the illusion of movement by drawing the same image multiple times with very small differences between each. When the images are merged into a single sequence, the tiny differences fool our brains into believing that they are moving.
Animations are typically either two-dimensional (2D),(3D), or both. Although 2D was the traditional method of animation, 3D was possible with modern technology. It is still quite common to see 2D animations in advertising, marketing, and entertainment, as a deliberate stylistic choice.
Types of animation
Let’s first explain that animation can be used to describe a range of techniques for adding movement and motion to images or inanimate objects. Although there are many other techniques, these are the ones designers consider most effective.
Traditional hand-drawn animation
1. Traditional animation — Each frame must be created individually and then run in a sequence for the illusion of movement. This is the historic root of animation. But animators discovered more modern techniques due to their time and cost.
2. 2D vector-based animation — More advanced software can support traditional animation. Although the principle is the exact same, Flash and other vector animation tools can generate many of the frames based on animators’ input.
3. 3D animation (CGI), a new approach to animation where computers create all the imagery, and animators input movement and angles. CGI animation can be compared to traditional animation and puppetry. Instead of focusing on animating the movements, the animators will leave the visuals to the computer.
4. Stop motion — Individual frames of real objects are captured by manipulating them and taking photos. It is also known as claymation. But it can be used with many other things, as you’ll see below. Although it’s as expensive and time-consuming as traditional animation, the end results often have an exclusive and valuable look.
Design by Agnes design
Your goals, brand personality, budget, and style preferences will all play a role in the style that you choose. While a stop motion explainer video can help your brand stand apart from other generic videos, a stop-motion interface for your website may not.
Now you should be able to see how animation can help your business. You may even have some plans on how to use it. Learn more about types of animation video marketing by checking out our ultimate guide!
However, the animation is only half the battle. The animation must be of high quality. Disney animators in the golden age of animation can give advice on creating quality animation.
