I have decided to use to Twitter to share 100 daily animation tips.
These will mostly be for students looking to break into the industry, newer artists looking to get to the next level, or anyone looking for some animation insight.
These will mostly be for students looking to break into the industry, newer artists looking to get to the next level, or anyone looking for some animation insight.
I'm not writing these as the "Animation Commandments".
But as an animator and director these have worked for me.
If you have any animation questions along the way- ask.
But as an animator and director these have worked for me.
If you have any animation questions along the way- ask.
1) Animators typically rush through the bouncing ball exercise. Don’t!
Every principle you will use as an animator is represented in this exercise- spacing, timing, arcs, weight...
Mastering this will improve your animation.
#daily #animation #tip
Every principle you will use as an animator is represented in this exercise- spacing, timing, arcs, weight...
Mastering this will improve your animation.
#daily #animation #tip
2) Animation works due to a principle called “Persistence of Vision”.
Animators get work done through their “Persistence” and “Vision”.
Keep your eye on the prize. Work hard. And most importantly... Finish it!
#daily #animation #tip
Animators get work done through their “Persistence” and “Vision”.
Keep your eye on the prize. Work hard. And most importantly... Finish it!
#daily #animation #tip
3) When animating dialogue the least important part to me is what the mouth is doing. That’s why it is usually the part I animate LAST.
Thoughtful acting, gestures and facial expressions really do the talking.
#daily #animation #tip
Thoughtful acting, gestures and facial expressions really do the talking.
#daily #animation #tip
4) Resist the temptation to add movement in the early stages of your animation. Great animation is built on a foundation of SOLID POSES.
No amount of slick movement can save you from weak posing!
#daily #animation #tip
No amount of slick movement can save you from weak posing!
#daily #animation #tip
5) Whether animating in 2D or 3D I plan my shots with thumbnail sketches on paper.
I like using Post-Its so I can add or subtract poses, explore variations of a pose, or even rearrange the order. #daily #animation #tip
I like using Post-Its so I can add or subtract poses, explore variations of a pose, or even rearrange the order. #daily #animation #tip
6) Finished animation school and didn’t get a job? Keep working on new shots for your reel!
It took me a years to get into animation full-time. I know it can be discouraging, but use that to motivate yourself to keep at it.
I did and never looked back.
#daily #animation #tip
It took me a years to get into animation full-time. I know it can be discouraging, but use that to motivate yourself to keep at it.
I did and never looked back.
#daily #animation #tip
7) When animating digitally the software doesn’t create the result, YOU do. Push, pull, break, cheat, draw, redraw... do whatever it takes to make it work the way you want.
Remember, you are in charge. Don’t compromise!
#daily #animation #tip
Remember, you are in charge. Don’t compromise!
#daily #animation #tip
8) When reviewing demo reels I will often watch them with the sound turned off.
Make sure your animation is strong enough and clear enough that It works by the visuals alone.
#daily #animation #tip
Make sure your animation is strong enough and clear enough that It works by the visuals alone.
#daily #animation #tip
9) As a director I love working with animators who bring solutions- not problems.
Next time you think “I don’t know what to do here” make sure you’ve explored it enough. Then bring your ideas forward as options. #daily #animation #tip
Next time you think “I don’t know what to do here” make sure you’ve explored it enough. Then bring your ideas forward as options. #daily #animation #tip
10) Animation is often about what you DON’T move.
It may seem counterintuitive, but keeping a character still can make for the most moving performance.
#daily #animation #tip
It may seem counterintuitive, but keeping a character still can make for the most moving performance.
#daily #animation #tip
11) When starting a scene I set my brain to “Playtime”- thinking of ideas and possibilities, nothing is off limits.
Once I have a plan I switch my brain to “Worktime”. I COMMIT to the idea and every decision I make is about how to execute it on screen.
#daily #animation #tip
Once I have a plan I switch my brain to “Worktime”. I COMMIT to the idea and every decision I make is about how to execute it on screen.
#daily #animation #tip
12) When I want feedback on how to FIX animation I show an animator.
When I want feedback to see if the animation WORKS, I show my kids.
There is no better way to know if you are hitting the mark than seeing an honest reaction to your work. #daily #animation #tip
When I want feedback to see if the animation WORKS, I show my kids.
There is no better way to know if you are hitting the mark than seeing an honest reaction to your work. #daily #animation #tip
13) The eyes tell the story.
It’s where we look to learn what a person is feeling, thinking and how they’re relating to others.
Craft thoughtful animation of your character’s eyes and create a connection with your audience.
#daily #animation #tip
It’s where we look to learn what a person is feeling, thinking and how they’re relating to others.
Craft thoughtful animation of your character’s eyes and create a connection with your audience.
#daily #animation #tip
14) Keep a sketchbook with you. Draw from life, doodle from your imagination, thumbnail ideas...
Regularly using a sketchbook conditions your mind to observe the world around you, giving you
endless inspiration to draw from as an animator.
#daily #animation #tip
Regularly using a sketchbook conditions your mind to observe the world around you, giving you
endless inspiration to draw from as an animator.
#daily #animation #tip
15) I always strive to give my animation life and energy.
The best way I know how is to use a straight ahead animation pass.
I’ll plan my scene with poses- then use the poses as a guide to animate straight ahead through.
#daily #animation #tip
The best way I know how is to use a straight ahead animation pass.
I’ll plan my scene with poses- then use the poses as a guide to animate straight ahead through.
#daily #animation #tip
16) You can learn theory, and master technique, but the most important ingredient in animation is the joy of creating.
When you love the process of animating it shows in your work.
Unfortunately, the same is true if you find the work is drudgery.
#daily #animation #tip
When you love the process of animating it shows in your work.
Unfortunately, the same is true if you find the work is drudgery.
#daily #animation #tip
17) If you can name the 7 Dwarves you’re an animation fan.
If you can name the 12 Principles you’re an animator.
The 12 Principles of Animation are the tools of your trade.
Learn them.
Study them.
Practice them.
#daily #animation #tip
If you can name the 12 Principles you’re an animator.
The 12 Principles of Animation are the tools of your trade.
Learn them.
Study them.
Practice them.
#daily #animation #tip
18) When showing your animation reel don’t ask “Can I have the job?” Instead try “What is working? What can be better?”
Showing a recruiter the desire to improve speaks volumes. Plus, you may learn what they look for in a reel. #daily #animation #tip
Showing a recruiter the desire to improve speaks volumes. Plus, you may learn what they look for in a reel. #daily #animation #tip
19) Use STORY/CONTEXT to motivate your animation choices.
Eg. A character excitedly chasing an ice cream truck would have a very different run compared to that same character fleeing a zombie attack.
#daily #animation #tip
Eg. A character excitedly chasing an ice cream truck would have a very different run compared to that same character fleeing a zombie attack.
#daily #animation #tip
20) In animation sometimes LESS is more.
I’d elaborate, but that wouldn’t seem right.
#daily #animation #tip
I’d elaborate, but that wouldn’t seem right.
#daily #animation #tip
21) When you got a note on your work- EMBRACE it!
Often people get a note and regard it as a negative.
But, the most successful artists take the note on board and stop at nothing to make the scene between BECAUSE of the note.
#daily #animation #tip
Often people get a note and regard it as a negative.
But, the most successful artists take the note on board and stop at nothing to make the scene between BECAUSE of the note.
#daily #animation #tip
22) When animating don’t pose your character to LOOK like it’s doing something...
Actually MAKE the character do it.
When you apply this approach you can just FEEL it in the animation.
#daily #animation #tip
Actually MAKE the character do it.
When you apply this approach you can just FEEL it in the animation.
#daily #animation #tip
23) Reference is essential. But it should be just that- reference.
Absorb the material so that you understand it- the mechanics of movement, attitudes, etc.
Then use that understanding to craft your own unique performance.
#daily #animation #tip
Absorb the material so that you understand it- the mechanics of movement, attitudes, etc.
Then use that understanding to craft your own unique performance.
#daily #animation #tip
24) I don’t always get it right the first time- that’s why I take a few runs at my animation.
It’s often not until I get to the end of a shot that I really get a feel for what works and what doesn’t.
#daily #animation #tip
It’s often not until I get to the end of a shot that I really get a feel for what works and what doesn’t.
#daily #animation #tip
25) Make sure characters SEE a thing before they react.
In real life it can take several seconds before something registers. Delaying this can make the reaction all the funnier.
#daily #animation #tip
In real life it can take several seconds before something registers. Delaying this can make the reaction all the funnier.
#daily #animation #tip
26) A secret to generating QUALITY animation?
It’s quantity.
Develop the habit of producing regularly by...
1) Picking a fun idea and keeping it short.
2) Setting a deadline- and STICKING to it.
3) Repeating steps 1 & 2
#daily #animation #tip
It’s quantity.
Develop the habit of producing regularly by...
1) Picking a fun idea and keeping it short.
2) Setting a deadline- and STICKING to it.
3) Repeating steps 1 & 2
#daily #animation #tip
27) People ask me “What do I put in an animation portfolio to make it good?”
My answer: “You make a good portfolio once you start taking work OUT”
Once you have created a lot of material it allows you to choose from your very best work- and cut the rest
#daily #animation #tip
My answer: “You make a good portfolio once you start taking work OUT”
Once you have created a lot of material it allows you to choose from your very best work- and cut the rest
#daily #animation #tip
28) Use every detail in your animation to emote with- even something as small as an EYE BLINK.
Nervous characters tend to blink a lot and quickly.
If a character is confident they blink slower and less often.
And if they DON’T blink- be afraid.
#daily #animation #tip
Nervous characters tend to blink a lot and quickly.
If a character is confident they blink slower and less often.
And if they DON’T blink- be afraid.
#daily #animation #tip
29) During dialog when a character stops talking they shouldn’t stop acting.
People are either in their head THINKING of what to say next or they are ACTIVELY listening to the other person.
Remember- acting is reacting!
#daily #animation #tip
People are either in their head THINKING of what to say next or they are ACTIVELY listening to the other person.
Remember- acting is reacting!
#daily #animation #tip
30) Animation is like telling a joke. It’s all about ‘set up’ and ‘pay off’.
If I want to animate a fast/frenetic action I’ll make sure to set it up with a quiet moment first.
My favourite way to set up actions is to use CONTRAST.
#daily #animation #tip
If I want to animate a fast/frenetic action I’ll make sure to set it up with a quiet moment first.
My favourite way to set up actions is to use CONTRAST.
#daily #animation #tip
31) I love animating HANDS.
They express so much so much about your character...
Are they fidgety? Are they dexterous? Are they clumsy?
Mind how hands move, gesture and handle objects in your animation.
#daily #animation #tip
They express so much so much about your character...
Are they fidgety? Are they dexterous? Are they clumsy?
Mind how hands move, gesture and handle objects in your animation.
#daily #animation #tip
32) As an artist who has ADD I sometimes find it a struggle getting down to work.
To keep my concentration on animation I eliminate distractions- No YouTube, Podcasts or iPhones.
Do what you gotta do to keep your focus on your work!
#daily #animation #tip
To keep my concentration on animation I eliminate distractions- No YouTube, Podcasts or iPhones.
Do what you gotta do to keep your focus on your work!
#daily #animation #tip
33) You don’t have to be good.
At first you want to do amazing animation. The danger is you can psych yourself out of even starting.
If that’s you then start SMALL and start BAD.
The most important thing is to do something- then you can improve on it.
#daily #animation #tip
At first you want to do amazing animation. The danger is you can psych yourself out of even starting.
If that’s you then start SMALL and start BAD.
The most important thing is to do something- then you can improve on it.
#daily #animation #tip
34) A cartoon character’s teeth chatter when they are cold- we’ve see it hundreds of times.
Do the work and search for better acting choices that are unique to the character in your animation.
Avoid using tired CLICHES.
#daily #animation #tip
Do the work and search for better acting choices that are unique to the character in your animation.
Avoid using tired CLICHES.
#daily #animation #tip
35 A) Got CREATIVE BLOCK?
Try working in a different medium.
I’m not adept at animating in clay or charcoal or markers on cels- so it frees me up to just be PLAYFUL with it.
Like this cool EMBROIDERED animation in the pinned tweet by @AlexisDraws
#daily #animation #tip
Try working in a different medium.
I’m not adept at animating in clay or charcoal or markers on cels- so it frees me up to just be PLAYFUL with it.
Like this cool EMBROIDERED animation in the pinned tweet by @AlexisDraws
#daily #animation #tip
36 B) For what it’s worth... working with new mediums this way led me to create characters for a series idea I had.
And that pitch ended up getting optioned.
#daily #animation #tip
And that pitch ended up getting optioned.
#daily #animation #tip
36) I don’t just make my acting choices arbitrarily in animation.
When planning a scene try to get your character to motivate the acting. Do this by asking...
Who are they?
How do they feel?
What do they want?
#daily #animation #tip
When planning a scene try to get your character to motivate the acting. Do this by asking...
Who are they?
How do they feel?
What do they want?
#daily #animation #tip
37) Shoulders are key to crafting expressive body poses.
They have a huge range of movement in real life and are often underused by newer artists.
I like to think of shoulders as the ‘eyebrows’ of the torso.
#daily #animation #tip
They have a huge range of movement in real life and are often underused by newer artists.
I like to think of shoulders as the ‘eyebrows’ of the torso.
#daily #animation #tip
38) Everything your character does in a scene must be done with a PURPOSE.
Even if your character is “doing nothing” decide HOW they do nothing.
Don’t just have your characters die on screen or do random movement ‘just to keep it moving’.
#daily #animation #tip
Even if your character is “doing nothing” decide HOW they do nothing.
Don’t just have your characters die on screen or do random movement ‘just to keep it moving’.
#daily #animation #tip
39) Struggling to think of an idea for an animation test?
Keep it simple.
It’s not WHAT the character is doing that needs to be clever- it’s HOW they do it. Focus on performance!
#daily #animation #tip
Keep it simple.
It’s not WHAT the character is doing that needs to be clever- it’s HOW they do it. Focus on performance!
#daily #animation #tip
40) Squash & Stretch is one of my favourite tools to use in animation.
Though it usually demonstrated to exaggerated extremes on ‘cartoony’ characters it should absolutely be used for ALL styles of animation.
Study how much S&S there is in real life.
#daily #animation #tip
Though it usually demonstrated to exaggerated extremes on ‘cartoony’ characters it should absolutely be used for ALL styles of animation.
Study how much S&S there is in real life.
#daily #animation #tip
41) Squash & Stretch like a PRO.
Pushing the S&S in your poses isn’t always the reason it makes your animation feel gloopy or rubbery.
It is usually because you are staying in it for too many frames.
S&S works best when you FEEL it rather than SEE it.
#daily #animation #tip
Pushing the S&S in your poses isn’t always the reason it makes your animation feel gloopy or rubbery.
It is usually because you are staying in it for too many frames.
S&S works best when you FEEL it rather than SEE it.
#daily #animation #tip
42) Feedback on your work is essential for your growth- but only if it’s from reliable sources.
Friends & family will be too nice bc they don’t want to hurt your feelings.
Instead seek critiques from trusted instructors, mentors or industry professionals
#daily #animation #tip
Friends & family will be too nice bc they don’t want to hurt your feelings.
Instead seek critiques from trusted instructors, mentors or industry professionals
#daily #animation #tip
43) Whether animating as a pro or on personal projects- work in STAGES and seek approval at EACH STEP.
I always get sign off at the Ideas stage, Thumbnails, Blocking, Roughs through to Final- ensuring that everything READS CLEARLY and is ENTERTAINING.
#daily #animation #tip
I always get sign off at the Ideas stage, Thumbnails, Blocking, Roughs through to Final- ensuring that everything READS CLEARLY and is ENTERTAINING.
#daily #animation #tip
44) As the animator it’s your job to direct the viewer’s attention to where YOU want them to look on screen.
Our eye is drawn to MOVEMENT- so use motion in your animation with intent and purpose.
#daily #animation #tip
Our eye is drawn to MOVEMENT- so use motion in your animation with intent and purpose.
#daily #animation #tip
45) The beautiful thing about animation is- there ain’t just one way to do it.
It’s not a matter of learning formulas! It’s about knowing HOW things move and your ability to CARICATURE it- the way that only animation can.
#daily #animation #tip
It’s not a matter of learning formulas! It’s about knowing HOW things move and your ability to CARICATURE it- the way that only animation can.
#daily #animation #tip
46) The animation industry is a team sport. So be GOOD to work with!
Whether you are in school or a studio- share, help and encourage each other.
My favourite artists are also my favourite PEOPLE. #daily #animation #tip
Whether you are in school or a studio- share, help and encourage each other.
My favourite artists are also my favourite PEOPLE. #daily #animation #tip
47) On animating dialog: I have noticed that when spoken inflections go up or down in pitch I tend to accent my character up & down to match.
This might apply to the whole character or just their facial features.
It’s not a rule- but an observation.
#daily #animation #tip
This might apply to the whole character or just their facial features.
It’s not a rule- but an observation.
#daily #animation #tip
48) When plotting out your poses remember that it’s the spaces between the poses where animation happens.
For broad actions put a lot of space between poses giving your character somewhere to go.
Cluster poses close together for subtler actions.
#daily #animation #tip
For broad actions put a lot of space between poses giving your character somewhere to go.
Cluster poses close together for subtler actions.
#daily #animation #tip
49) I treat animation like going to the gym.
At first it can be a hard to push yourself and when you aren’t ‘feeling it’ you’ll want to bail...
But, if you keep at it, it does get easier- and you will be able to look back and see PROGRESS.
#daily #animation #tip
At first it can be a hard to push yourself and when you aren’t ‘feeling it’ you’ll want to bail...
But, if you keep at it, it does get easier- and you will be able to look back and see PROGRESS.
#daily #animation #tip
50) Looking for inspiration?
Study different styles of animation than you’re used to watching.
Pay attention to the different approaches to character, timing, design, animation technique and problem solving.
It can be surprisingly eye opening!
#daily #animation #tip
Study different styles of animation than you’re used to watching.
Pay attention to the different approaches to character, timing, design, animation technique and problem solving.
It can be surprisingly eye opening!
#daily #animation #tip
51) Always put a bit of yourself in your characters. Draw on your personal experiences and instincts when animating.
People connect with and remember performances that are unique and true. Avoid doing it the way you’ve seen before- do it YOUR way.
#daily #animation #tip
People connect with and remember performances that are unique and true. Avoid doing it the way you’ve seen before- do it YOUR way.
#daily #animation #tip
52) Failure is ok!
When animation is not working it can be frustrating. But stop and ask WHY it isn’t working.
Is it the pose?
The timing?
Not enough anticipation?
Animation is a series of passes on a scene with constant evaluation and adjustments.
#daily #animation #tip
When animation is not working it can be frustrating. But stop and ask WHY it isn’t working.
Is it the pose?
The timing?
Not enough anticipation?
Animation is a series of passes on a scene with constant evaluation and adjustments.
#daily #animation #tip
53) Pay attention.
Hours spent at your desk are important. But so is stepping away and actively watching people (and yourself) in real life.
Part of being an animator is observing the world around you. Animation is a performance that caricatures life!
#daily #animation #tip
Hours spent at your desk are important. But so is stepping away and actively watching people (and yourself) in real life.
Part of being an animator is observing the world around you. Animation is a performance that caricatures life!
#daily #animation #tip
54) In dark times animation can be a light.
Throwing yourself into the work can be transcendent- that experience you get where you forget about time & space and just create. It’s FLOW
And when you just can’t- watching your favorite anim provides an escape
#daily #animation #tip
Throwing yourself into the work can be transcendent- that experience you get where you forget about time & space and just create. It’s FLOW
And when you just can’t- watching your favorite anim provides an escape
#daily #animation #tip
55) On Demo Reels:
When recruiting I look for SCENES, not EXERCISES.
A walk cycle is an EXERCISE. It shows an understanding of body mechanics.
Using the knowledge from an exercise to create personality & an entertaining performance- that’s a SCENE.
#daily #animation #tip
When recruiting I look for SCENES, not EXERCISES.
A walk cycle is an EXERCISE. It shows an understanding of body mechanics.
Using the knowledge from an exercise to create personality & an entertaining performance- that’s a SCENE.
#daily #animation #tip
56) A lot of us are working from home now.
When your dining room table doubles as your office it can be tough to separate work from home life.
Do your best to keep to SCHEDULED WORK HOURS. Work during those hours, and shut it down when the day is done. #daily #animation #tip
When your dining room table doubles as your office it can be tough to separate work from home life.
Do your best to keep to SCHEDULED WORK HOURS. Work during those hours, and shut it down when the day is done. #daily #animation #tip
57) Yesterday’s tip was harder for me to follow than I expected.
I am a night owl- I tend to get into the flow at night.
If this is you, recognize when you are getting overtired and stop. It is better to come at it fresh the next morning vs groggy.
#daily #animation #tip
I am a night owl- I tend to get into the flow at night.
If this is you, recognize when you are getting overtired and stop. It is better to come at it fresh the next morning vs groggy.
#daily #animation #tip
58) Of course, every scene I animate I want to make the best it can be.
But when you try to make a thing perfect it can paralyze you.
Remember, each scene is a stepping stone to the next.
Doing the work today will make you better tomorrow.
Keep steeping!
#daily #animation #tip
But when you try to make a thing perfect it can paralyze you.
Remember, each scene is a stepping stone to the next.
Doing the work today will make you better tomorrow.
Keep steeping!
#daily #animation #tip
59) When presenting ideas to a client/director go with 3 unique takes.
LISTEN to why they chose one over the others. It is as important to know what they like as it is to know what they don’t... and why. #daily #animation #tip
LISTEN to why they chose one over the others. It is as important to know what they like as it is to know what they don’t... and why. #daily #animation #tip
60) A hobbyist will do their art when inspiration strikes them.
A pro does their art everyday, whether they feel inspired or not.
If you want to be a pro, start by treating your approach to your work like a pro... and do it!
#daily #animation #tip
A pro does their art everyday, whether they feel inspired or not.
If you want to be a pro, start by treating your approach to your work like a pro... and do it!
#daily #animation #tip
61) During this time of isolation keep creating your art.
But I also encourage all of you to do that silly, different, weird idea that you would normally put off with a busy schedule.
Animation is amazing- use it to put your voice in the world.
#daily #animation #tip
But I also encourage all of you to do that silly, different, weird idea that you would normally put off with a busy schedule.
Animation is amazing- use it to put your voice in the world.
#daily #animation #tip
62) “You’re not supposed to animate drawings. You’re supposed to animate feelings.”
-Ollie Johnston
A great quote that reminds us what the animator’s job is.
The goal is to create a thinking, feeling, living animated character.
You do this by...
#daily #animation #tip
-Ollie Johnston
A great quote that reminds us what the animator’s job is.
The goal is to create a thinking, feeling, living animated character.
You do this by...
#daily #animation #tip
63) Set goals for your career.
The first step is figuring out where you want to go in animation.
Once you know that you can start to create your own path to get there.
#daily #animation #tip
The first step is figuring out where you want to go in animation.
Once you know that you can start to create your own path to get there.
#daily #animation #tip
64) Have time to catch up on some reading?
I recommend “The Animator’s Survival Kit” by Master animator @RWAnimator
Many people own this book, but few actually READ it. The illustrated examples are amazing- but the real wisdom can be found in the text.
#daily #animation #tip
I recommend “The Animator’s Survival Kit” by Master animator @RWAnimator
Many people own this book, but few actually READ it. The illustrated examples are amazing- but the real wisdom can be found in the text.
#daily #animation #tip
65) On Demo Reels: Is it ok to have swearing?
It’s up to you what you want to include on a reel. But remember- going for cheap laughs using questionable material will hurt your chances more than help.
Recruiters look for good animation. Period.
#daily #animation #tip
It’s up to you what you want to include on a reel. But remember- going for cheap laughs using questionable material will hurt your chances more than help.
Recruiters look for good animation. Period.
#daily #animation #tip
66) There’s a musicality to timing. So I will sing or do sound effects when timing out animation.
I’ll describe a character’s moves like “Bum-bum-bum-Boing..... BOOF!”
Also, if you record yourself you can use the audio in your timeline to animate to.
#daily #animation #tip
I’ll describe a character’s moves like “Bum-bum-bum-Boing..... BOOF!”
Also, if you record yourself you can use the audio in your timeline to animate to.
#daily #animation #tip
67) On Line Of Action:
A lot of artists build their poses with a LOA (which is good!).
But, then they move on to the next step and forget about LOA.
Always keep building & strengthening LOA in your poses/actions as you go through the animation process.
#daily #animation #tip
A lot of artists build their poses with a LOA (which is good!).
But, then they move on to the next step and forget about LOA.
Always keep building & strengthening LOA in your poses/actions as you go through the animation process.
#daily #animation #tip
68) There’s a belief that full animation (on 1s) is always better. But is it?
Spider-Verse expertly used a mix of 1s & 2s depending on the situation. Using adjusted frame rates in the animation to show a character as super (on 1s) or struggling (on 2s).
#daily #animation #tip
Spider-Verse expertly used a mix of 1s & 2s depending on the situation. Using adjusted frame rates in the animation to show a character as super (on 1s) or struggling (on 2s).
#daily #animation #tip
69) Question: How do you get opportunities in the animation industry?
Answer: You do the work when no one is watching.
Then you will be ready when someone is looking.
#daily #animation #tip
Answer: You do the work when no one is watching.
Then you will be ready when someone is looking.
#daily #animation #tip
70) Everything you animate should move in ARCS.
Arcs can be big or small, subtle or exaggerated, but unless you are animating something mechanical, arcs should be there.
If something is looking off in your animation- track the arcs!
#daily #animation #tip
Arcs can be big or small, subtle or exaggerated, but unless you are animating something mechanical, arcs should be there.
If something is looking off in your animation- track the arcs!
#daily #animation #tip
71) On animating funny:
We laugh when something violates the way we think it should work & it’s done in a non-threatening way.
Animation is great for doing this! Strive to make animation that is uniquely funny- not just like everything else you’ve seen.
#daily #animation #tip
We laugh when something violates the way we think it should work & it’s done in a non-threatening way.
Animation is great for doing this! Strive to make animation that is uniquely funny- not just like everything else you’ve seen.
#daily #animation #tip
72) Did your demo reel get rejected?
Try asking what you could do to improve your reel for next time.
Then actually DO what is suggested.
When people reapply to studios we often do track candidates and note whether reels progress... or not.
#daily #animation #tip
Try asking what you could do to improve your reel for next time.
Then actually DO what is suggested.
When people reapply to studios we often do track candidates and note whether reels progress... or not.
#daily #animation #tip
73) Deadlines... They’re a reality in animation.
But a deadline isn’t the time when you first submit your work- it is when the work is meant to be COMPLETED.
Hand in your shot ahead of the deadline- your directors will love you! #daily #animation #tip
But a deadline isn’t the time when you first submit your work- it is when the work is meant to be COMPLETED.
Hand in your shot ahead of the deadline- your directors will love you! #daily #animation #tip
74) I see animation kind of like a math equation that I have to solve.
As in, you have your CHARACTER x their GOALS + their ENVIRONMENT = an entertaining performance
And just getting the answer isn’t enough. You need to show your work. #daily #animation #tip
As in, you have your CHARACTER x their GOALS + their ENVIRONMENT = an entertaining performance
And just getting the answer isn’t enough. You need to show your work. #daily #animation #tip
75) Every scene in a film/show has a purpose.
If you don’t know what that scene is meant to convey ask your Director. Remember, as an animator, it is your job to know.
Do not start your scene until you know the who/what/where/when/why/how!
#daily #animation #tip
If you don’t know what that scene is meant to convey ask your Director. Remember, as an animator, it is your job to know.
Do not start your scene until you know the who/what/where/when/why/how!
#daily #animation #tip
76) If your LIP SYNC has an unnatural, poppy look it may be because you are keying the jaw opening and closing on every syllable.
The jaw needs about 4 frames for each move open or closed.
The majority of lip sync can be done without even moving the jaw.
#daily #animation #tip
The jaw needs about 4 frames for each move open or closed.
The majority of lip sync can be done without even moving the jaw.
#daily #animation #tip
77) Here’s a tip to help you not overdo the jaw movement in lip sync.
Say the line of dialog out loud while resting your jaw on your hand. You will actually be able to feel how often your jaw opens and closes.
It’s usually half what you’d expect.
#daily #animation #tip
Say the line of dialog out loud while resting your jaw on your hand. You will actually be able to feel how often your jaw opens and closes.
It’s usually half what you’d expect.
#daily #animation #tip
78) On incorporating notes into your animation:
Don’t make the note look tacked on. Instead, weave it into the shot as seamlessly as possible.
The trick is to make a revised pass feel like it was your first pass.
#daily #animation #tip
Don’t make the note look tacked on. Instead, weave it into the shot as seamlessly as possible.
The trick is to make a revised pass feel like it was your first pass.
#daily #animation #tip
79) Consider the TEXTURE of movement in animation.
Beginners tend to use the same timing between poses over & over- resulting in animation that feels repetitive & inorganic.
PLAN a variety of quick & slow moves & holds. Mix it up and give it texture.
#daily #animation #tip
Beginners tend to use the same timing between poses over & over- resulting in animation that feels repetitive & inorganic.
PLAN a variety of quick & slow moves & holds. Mix it up and give it texture.
#daily #animation #tip
80) Key Poses vs Breakdowns.
KEY POSES are like the poles of a tent- the bones of a shot, the structure.
BREAKDOWNS are like the fabric draped on those poles.
They define HOW things move between the Keys- the arcs, trajectories, and spacing.
#daily #animation #tip
KEY POSES are like the poles of a tent- the bones of a shot, the structure.
BREAKDOWNS are like the fabric draped on those poles.
They define HOW things move between the Keys- the arcs, trajectories, and spacing.
#daily #animation #tip
81) Exaggeration is another principle of animation I love using.
But, to use it well you need to understand how the action, emotion or movement happens in REALITY!
Then you know exactly HOW to caricature an expression, push arcs or play with timing.
#daily #animation #tip
But, to use it well you need to understand how the action, emotion or movement happens in REALITY!
Then you know exactly HOW to caricature an expression, push arcs or play with timing.
#daily #animation #tip
82) Average animators ask for INSTRUCTIONS
“Do a pose that looks like this”
Great animators ask for DIRECTION
“She is feeling betrayed here”
How to show that is animator’s job- draw on your life experience, reference and instincts to craft a performance.
#daily #animation #tip
“Do a pose that looks like this”
Great animators ask for DIRECTION
“She is feeling betrayed here”
How to show that is animator’s job- draw on your life experience, reference and instincts to craft a performance.
#daily #animation #tip
83) Generally, the bigger the action I’m animating the more pronounced I make the ANTICIPATION.
Meaning I make the antic more exaggerated &/or hold it longer.
In a lot of cases setting up what is about to happen is more important than the action itself.
#daily #animation #tip
Meaning I make the antic more exaggerated &/or hold it longer.
In a lot of cases setting up what is about to happen is more important than the action itself.
#daily #animation #tip
84) Draw from other disciplines besides animation.
I have a background in hockey and music.
Hockey taught me about physicality and team.
Music taught me about rhythm and timing.
Look for other areas of your life to draw from when you animate.
#daily #animation #tip
I have a background in hockey and music.
Hockey taught me about physicality and team.
Music taught me about rhythm and timing.
Look for other areas of your life to draw from when you animate.
#daily #animation #tip
85) What is my favourite show I’ve worked on?
My answer is always ‘the one I’m working on now’
Whether big or small, professional or personal, each project you have the privilege of working on is an opportunity to put something great in the world.
#daily #animation #tip
My answer is always ‘the one I’m working on now’
Whether big or small, professional or personal, each project you have the privilege of working on is an opportunity to put something great in the world.
#daily #animation #tip
86) Where do I put a BREAKDOWN pose?
Find the exact middle between your two KEY poses... then DO NOT put it there.
Use Breakdowns between 2 Key poses to...
-describe ARCS
-FAVOR in or out
-ELABORATE an action
BDs are the poses between the poses.
#daily #animation #tip
Find the exact middle between your two KEY poses... then DO NOT put it there.
Use Breakdowns between 2 Key poses to...
-describe ARCS
-FAVOR in or out
-ELABORATE an action
BDs are the poses between the poses.
#daily #animation #tip
87) When I start a scene I sketch out tons of ideas that would be fun to animate.
But when I start posing I have to be ruthless and narrow it down to the LEAST amount of poses.
Constantly ask “Does the SCENE need this?” If not- cut it.
#daily #animation #tip
But when I start posing I have to be ruthless and narrow it down to the LEAST amount of poses.
Constantly ask “Does the SCENE need this?” If not- cut it.
#daily #animation #tip
88) Save different versions of your scene as you progress your animation.
Sometimes you get deep into a shot and realize something isn’t working. Instead of redoing it from scratch go back to an earlier version and go from there.
#daily #animation #tip
Sometimes you get deep into a shot and realize something isn’t working. Instead of redoing it from scratch go back to an earlier version and go from there.
#daily #animation #tip
89) When a character starts into an animated move you can get away with almost anything.
But, how that character settles out of the move is way less forgiving.
Our eye tends see how we FINISH actions in animation more than how we get into them.
#daily #animatiom #tip
But, how that character settles out of the move is way less forgiving.
Our eye tends see how we FINISH actions in animation more than how we get into them.
#daily #animatiom #tip
90) Athletes know to be the best takes countless hours of practice, training & studying the game.
The same is true for animation.
Completing one quality 10 second shot a month = doing reps at an animator gym.
+After a year you’ll have 2:00 of animation!
#daily #animation #tip
The same is true for animation.
Completing one quality 10 second shot a month = doing reps at an animator gym.
+After a year you’ll have 2:00 of animation!
#daily #animation #tip
91) Too many animators fall into the trap of regurgitating poses, acting or moves they’ve seen done before.
Actively try to avoid this. There is so much room in animation to be unique. Audiences crave watching something done in a way they’ve never seen.
#daily #animation #tip
Actively try to avoid this. There is so much room in animation to be unique. Audiences crave watching something done in a way they’ve never seen.
#daily #animation #tip
92) One reason the old animators got SO good is because it was a big deal to test their animation.
Try to avoid excessive testing.
Watch your test and note all the things you want to fix. Then don’t test your scene again until you’ve done the fixes.
#daily #animation #tip
Try to avoid excessive testing.
Watch your test and note all the things you want to fix. Then don’t test your scene again until you’ve done the fixes.
#daily #animation #tip
93) Try using the Rule of 3 in animation.
The rule is you use 3 actions/gestures.
The first two moves you use to set up a pattern. Then on the third move break expectations with a totally different action.
Eg. Point... Point... Shrug
#daily #animation #tip
The rule is you use 3 actions/gestures.
The first two moves you use to set up a pattern. Then on the third move break expectations with a totally different action.
Eg. Point... Point... Shrug
#daily #animation #tip
94) Act out your scenes.
But not for video reference.
Do it so you can embody the character and feel the physicality with your own body.
If it doesn’t feel right when acting it out- then it’s not gonna feel right when we see it animated.
#daily #animation #tip
But not for video reference.
Do it so you can embody the character and feel the physicality with your own body.
If it doesn’t feel right when acting it out- then it’s not gonna feel right when we see it animated.
#daily #animation #tip
95) Respect your audience.
People invest their time to watch your show/film/video game etc.
Make your animation the best you can while you have it on your ‘work screen’- because the scene lives forever once it’s out on the ‘big screen’
#daily #animation #tip
People invest their time to watch your show/film/video game etc.
Make your animation the best you can while you have it on your ‘work screen’- because the scene lives forever once it’s out on the ‘big screen’
#daily #animation #tip
96) A secret to great animation?
It’s the work you put in BEFORE you animate.
To me the real work is thinking about the character, finding reference, doing studies, planning thumbnails, etc.
Once I’ve done the heavy lifting animating is the fun part.
#daily #animation #tip
It’s the work you put in BEFORE you animate.
To me the real work is thinking about the character, finding reference, doing studies, planning thumbnails, etc.
Once I’ve done the heavy lifting animating is the fun part.
#daily #animation #tip
97) One of the hardest parts of animation is finishing strong.
Animating a scene is a marathon- pace yourself so you have plenty of energy in the tank at the end.
The final polish can take your scene from OK to WOW!
Sprint through the finish line.
#daily #animation #tip
Animating a scene is a marathon- pace yourself so you have plenty of energy in the tank at the end.
The final polish can take your scene from OK to WOW!
Sprint through the finish line.
#daily #animation #tip
98) Animators don’t earn their paycheques just by sitting at a desk from 9-5.
They do it by consistently putting entertaining performances on the screen.
Make the work the most important thing and the rest will sort itself out.
#daily #animation #tip
They do it by consistently putting entertaining performances on the screen.
Make the work the most important thing and the rest will sort itself out.
#daily #animation #tip
99) In honour of tip 99 here is a quote from the most famous #99
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
-Wayne Gretzky
The only way to get the animation reel you want is to ANIMATE.
Now make your shot!
#daily #animation #tip
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
-Wayne Gretzky
The only way to get the animation reel you want is to ANIMATE.
Now make your shot!
#daily #animation #tip
100) To finish I want to share my favourite tip...
IMAGINE YOUR SHOT FINISHED BEFORE YOU START
Once I began doing this my animation improved big time.
When you can see the performance in your imagination, then you have a target to shoot for.
#daily #animation #tip
IMAGINE YOUR SHOT FINISHED BEFORE YOU START
Once I began doing this my animation improved big time.
When you can see the performance in your imagination, then you have a target to shoot for.
#daily #animation #tip
Can’t believe we are already at 100!
I enjoyed coming up with and sharing these tips-hope they were helpful.
Respect the craft
Always try to bring originality
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Remember- Animation is fun
...I’M OUT!!
I enjoyed coming up with and sharing these tips-hope they were helpful.
Respect the craft
Always try to bring originality
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Remember- Animation is fun
...I’M OUT!!
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