Animation has evolved exponentially in the last century.
That doesn’t change the fact that every animation - from the very first cartoon ever made, to the cartoons and animated movies that we watch today - are all crafted by artists.
Technology is constantly advancing the way we animate. However, it doesn't matter if you are animating with a pencil and paper or by computer, the same fundamental animation principles apply.
There’s a great animation book called The Illusion of Life that I like to reference. It was written by two original Walt Disney animator masters, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston. In the book, Thomas and Ollie - two of Walt’s "Nine Old Men" - break down the animation process into 12 fundamental steps.
1. Squash and Stretch
Squash and stretch is one of the earliest animation principles. This gives the object weight, and snap to the action.
2. Anticipation
Anticipation gives the audience cues as to what movement will be happening next. It can be as small as an expression or as big as a physical action. The image above of Donald Duck implies that he is about to start running.
3. Staging
This animation principle is similar to anticipation. The action is staged so that it is undeniably clear what is happening, for the character both physically and emotionally.
4. Arcs
Arcs are very important to how objects move. Characters with linear motion tend to look mechanical or robotic. In the natural world we move in slight circular motions. Using arcs in your animation will make the subject feel more real and believable.
5. Exaggeration
Exaggeration is very much a staple in Walt Disney Studios animations. Movements are taken to the extreme and pushed farther than they would in real life. This makes the cartoon more interesting and fun to watch.
To learn more on these animation principles and many other facets of animation, please check out this book.
I would recommend it to anyone interested in the history and practice of animation.
Comments