Sunday, 30 December 2018
Study Task 6 - Non Fiction Animation
The style of animation in this trailer stood out to me as I appreciate how you can feel the weight behind each stroke. I feel this adds another layer to the story they are documenting as the outline seems more genuine and personal, as though someone has inked each frame as apposed to a cleaner style. (Israel 2008)
This documentary is very personal and emotional. I believe the use of sound and the use of shapes, particularly at the beginning, set the atmosphere of the animation, as well as the muted blue tones seen throughout. (Sweden 2014)
I believe discussing topics that are considered taboo in a more light-hearted and humorous manner is a tactical way of shedding a light on more controversial subjects. The use of sound and visuals in this documentary I feel makes the viewer more willing to listen to the message. (Canada 2016)
I like the use of mixed media in this documentary as it proves that you can tell a story multiple ways. (Palestine/ France/ Canada 2014)
I like the visuals in this animation and the catchy jingle they sing throughout leaves a memorable impression in the audience's head. (USA 2017)
I feel if the animation style was too abstract, the audience wouldn't be able to connect very strongly to the history and if the documentary had been filmed using real life actors, the producers may have been forced to shy away from the more gruesome details of the accounts. So, by using a semi-realistic style within animation, they could not only portray the horrific accounts in detail however could also still evoke that emotional response from the audience as we can recognise the people behind the art. (New Zealand 2015)
I feel the use of colour (particularly the harsh red and deep blue) sets the tone of this animation and is able to further demonstrate the message within the story. (England/ China 2016)
The visuals in this documentary help the audience to ask the same questions being presented to them. (France 2013)
I believe the way in which this metaphor is presented in this documentary adds almost a fictitious element to this person's account which may entice a larger audience as it raises certain questions and gives the documentary more of it's own identity. (Germany 2014)
I like the limited colour palette in the animated sections and muted colours used throughout. This style of animation is also something that caught my attention. (Japan 2016)
Study Task 4 - Triangulation
In Flickers of Film: Nostalgia in the Time of Digital Cinema, Sperb implies that the kind of nostalgia displayed in films today no longer focuses solely on a longing for the past but rather, how corporations utilise the cost-efficient advancements in digital technology, and how this is used to progress into a more sustainable and economic future. Cross also theorises a similar interpretation of how nostalgia has evolved in Consumed Nostalgia: Memory in the Age of Fast Capitalism. Rather than longing for a personal connection to the past, pop culture and the consumerist outlook plays a larger role in enhancing certain emotional responses as many people's childhoods were incredibly commercialised.
Sperb also discusses how by making certain aesthetic choices and looking into certain trademarks of the past, we can manipulate the audience's reactions while still focusing on making a profit and producing sustainable and effective pieces of art. Jordan Mintzer praises Mike Mort on this in his film review of Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires as he comments on how Mort has looked back at pop culture from his own childhood and as he remains faithful to the source material by featuring clichés and certain recognisable aesthetic choices from the films he grew up with, he is able to capture this sense of commercialised nostalgia.
I found this task quite difficult as I often needed to reword certain parts so that it wasn't from a first person perspective and was instead more objective. I also struggled with keeping it under the word limit which meant I had to remove a couple paragraphs.
Sperb also discusses how by making certain aesthetic choices and looking into certain trademarks of the past, we can manipulate the audience's reactions while still focusing on making a profit and producing sustainable and effective pieces of art. Jordan Mintzer praises Mike Mort on this in his film review of Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires as he comments on how Mort has looked back at pop culture from his own childhood and as he remains faithful to the source material by featuring clichés and certain recognisable aesthetic choices from the films he grew up with, he is able to capture this sense of commercialised nostalgia.
I found this task quite difficult as I often needed to reword certain parts so that it wasn't from a first person perspective and was instead more objective. I also struggled with keeping it under the word limit which meant I had to remove a couple paragraphs.
Weekly Recap (23/12/18)
Tasks Completed:
- I refined the work due in for my 12 Principles module and uploaded everything onto my USB for the hand-in date
- I continued to work on my study tasks for LAUAN402 as well as finding an animation I wanted to write my disseminate presentation on
- I hope to complete at least half of my visual journal over the Christmas holidays
- I also hope to complete the remaining study tasks and begin writing my essay and presentation over the next two weeks
Context of Practice 1 Recap (Week Commencing 17/12/18)
I have began writing a paragraph focusing on the triangulation of three texts which I referenced in my bibliography. Over the Christmas Holidays, I plan on completing at least half of my visual journal and also will begin to plan my first essay.
Monday, 17 December 2018
Study Task 7 - Evaluation and Reflection
Evaluation
At the start of this module, I wasn't aware of all the principles of animation, nor had I ever accessed software such as Photoshop or Premiere Pro before. Over the past several weeks on this course, I have been able to develop my practice through various tasks using new techniques and programs.
Near the beginning of the module we looked into Appeal and Staging. I believe my first refined character design, whilst it was a little more out of my comfort zone, worked well as I feel the colour scheme and dynamic poses I painted provided an insight into his character's attributes. As my original character was more refined and introverted however, the poses I did sketch weren't very expressive or loud so in a following task where I designed another character sheet, I made a conscious decision to draw more exaggerated poses like falling and kicking.
An area in my practice that needs developing further is portraying this exaggeration through facial expressions too, and not just body language. I've noticed a slight trend developing in my recent work where I am mainly conveying emotions in the face through the eyebrows and mouth alone. In the future, I need to look at other ways I can create certain emotions, perhaps through squash and stretch techniques or through a very exaggerated anticipation of an action.
While I have been able to key frame the ideas for my animation through my storyboard, something I haven't been as experimental with is the direction within the storyboard, and from here, I will look into be more open and innovative with factors such as the camera angles, or camera techniques in a shot.
That being said however, I did investigate alternative routes within my animated clips by attending inductions and sourcing advice outside of the classroom on effects the software we have access to offers, such as my attempt at a Dolly Zoom for Task 5 in reference to Jaws, by experimenting with transforming layers.
I spent a while working on timing for Study Task 3 and while I feel I have an understanding of the timing needed for certain actions (such as blinking), I feel I need to refine this particular principle in future animations as a more recent animation I produced wasn't as smooth as I would have hoped, and the actions weren't as fluid but rather choppy. As a solution to this problem, I experimented with blending layers through Photoshop to give the animation a more cut-out looking finish.
In order to improve, I need to continue to practice various processes when animating, for example, explore more pose-to-pose animation rather than solely producing straight ahead animation. I should also research different websites that provide various sound effects so that I will have a better understanding about what sound effects should be added at what point within an animation.
Overall, this module has taught me many new techniques and principles which I hope to refine as I work towards new goals and ideas.
Link to Evaluation Sheet
At the start of this module, I wasn't aware of all the principles of animation, nor had I ever accessed software such as Photoshop or Premiere Pro before. Over the past several weeks on this course, I have been able to develop my practice through various tasks using new techniques and programs.
Near the beginning of the module we looked into Appeal and Staging. I believe my first refined character design, whilst it was a little more out of my comfort zone, worked well as I feel the colour scheme and dynamic poses I painted provided an insight into his character's attributes. As my original character was more refined and introverted however, the poses I did sketch weren't very expressive or loud so in a following task where I designed another character sheet, I made a conscious decision to draw more exaggerated poses like falling and kicking.
An area in my practice that needs developing further is portraying this exaggeration through facial expressions too, and not just body language. I've noticed a slight trend developing in my recent work where I am mainly conveying emotions in the face through the eyebrows and mouth alone. In the future, I need to look at other ways I can create certain emotions, perhaps through squash and stretch techniques or through a very exaggerated anticipation of an action.
While I have been able to key frame the ideas for my animation through my storyboard, something I haven't been as experimental with is the direction within the storyboard, and from here, I will look into be more open and innovative with factors such as the camera angles, or camera techniques in a shot.
That being said however, I did investigate alternative routes within my animated clips by attending inductions and sourcing advice outside of the classroom on effects the software we have access to offers, such as my attempt at a Dolly Zoom for Task 5 in reference to Jaws, by experimenting with transforming layers.
I spent a while working on timing for Study Task 3 and while I feel I have an understanding of the timing needed for certain actions (such as blinking), I feel I need to refine this particular principle in future animations as a more recent animation I produced wasn't as smooth as I would have hoped, and the actions weren't as fluid but rather choppy. As a solution to this problem, I experimented with blending layers through Photoshop to give the animation a more cut-out looking finish.
In order to improve, I need to continue to practice various processes when animating, for example, explore more pose-to-pose animation rather than solely producing straight ahead animation. I should also research different websites that provide various sound effects so that I will have a better understanding about what sound effects should be added at what point within an animation.
Overall, this module has taught me many new techniques and principles which I hope to refine as I work towards new goals and ideas.
Link to Evaluation Sheet
Study Task 6 - Secondary Action
Pre-Production
I began this task by sketching a short storyboard. Unlike the first time I did this where I painted each panel, I decided to keep this one as simple as possible so I could dedicate more time to actually animating the scene.
Due to time restraints, I simplified the actions of this storyboard so that the timing was more accurate, as if I had animated my previous storyboard, I wouldn't have been able to do so without speeding up the actions which would have looked unnatural.
Link to Storyboard Sheet
Once I finished a rough sketch, I began adding colour to the background I had designed based off my own reference. I also shaded the piece to give it more depth and solidity.
Link to Background Design Sheet
I designed a new character and sketched a turn-around, some dynamic poses and some facial expressions. I thought my dynamic poses this time around were more expressive and bolder which I enjoyed exploring, as I knew my actual animation wouldn't allow me to feature many dynamic poses due to my character being sat down the entire time.
However, I feel I could have made the faces more exaggerated so this is something I need to work on in the future.
Link to Character Turn-Around and Pose Sheet
Production
The concept of this animation came to me one evening when I became fixated on watching my lava lamp. I considered what it would be like to animate these hypnotic, slow movements, especially next to someone moving at a normal pace. As I wanted to make sure the timing remained accurate, I filmed several reference videos of myself reacting to various things, like drinking from the wrong glass and tried to exaggerate certain movements to make them more magnified.
Unlike the previous tasks, this animation focused on secondary animation which involved animating many small elements that may go unnoticed however I found to be vital in making the scene itself more believable; such as the paint brush marking lines on the page and the water in the glass swishing against the sides and also depleting once she takes a swig. While it may be subtle, I found I had more fun experimenting with squash and stretch for this animation all within the lava lamp.
Link to Finished Animation (Before Sound or Refinements)
Post-Production
As this video is strictly for educational purposes, I decided not to limit myself to royalty free music but instead, something I would expect to hear whilst painting in my room.
Due to the slight stiffness in the character and because she mainly remains at a side angle, it reminded me of cut-out animation so I also experimented by adding shadows to certain layers.
Link to Final Outcome
Below are some images and screenshots I took during this process:
Link to Production Related Images
I began this task by sketching a short storyboard. Unlike the first time I did this where I painted each panel, I decided to keep this one as simple as possible so I could dedicate more time to actually animating the scene.
Due to time restraints, I simplified the actions of this storyboard so that the timing was more accurate, as if I had animated my previous storyboard, I wouldn't have been able to do so without speeding up the actions which would have looked unnatural.
Link to Storyboard Sheet
Once I finished a rough sketch, I began adding colour to the background I had designed based off my own reference. I also shaded the piece to give it more depth and solidity.
Link to Background Design Sheet
I designed a new character and sketched a turn-around, some dynamic poses and some facial expressions. I thought my dynamic poses this time around were more expressive and bolder which I enjoyed exploring, as I knew my actual animation wouldn't allow me to feature many dynamic poses due to my character being sat down the entire time.
However, I feel I could have made the faces more exaggerated so this is something I need to work on in the future.
Link to Character Turn-Around and Pose Sheet
Production
The concept of this animation came to me one evening when I became fixated on watching my lava lamp. I considered what it would be like to animate these hypnotic, slow movements, especially next to someone moving at a normal pace. As I wanted to make sure the timing remained accurate, I filmed several reference videos of myself reacting to various things, like drinking from the wrong glass and tried to exaggerate certain movements to make them more magnified.
Unlike the previous tasks, this animation focused on secondary animation which involved animating many small elements that may go unnoticed however I found to be vital in making the scene itself more believable; such as the paint brush marking lines on the page and the water in the glass swishing against the sides and also depleting once she takes a swig. While it may be subtle, I found I had more fun experimenting with squash and stretch for this animation all within the lava lamp.
Link to Finished Animation (Before Sound or Refinements)
Post-Production
As this video is strictly for educational purposes, I decided not to limit myself to royalty free music but instead, something I would expect to hear whilst painting in my room.
Due to the slight stiffness in the character and because she mainly remains at a side angle, it reminded me of cut-out animation so I also experimented by adding shadows to certain layers.
Link to Final Outcome
Below are some images and screenshots I took during this process:
Link to Production Related Images
Sunday, 16 December 2018
Context of Practice 1 Recap (Week Commencing 10/12/18)
This week I explored the Harvard Referencing Style by writing a bibliography for the first twenty sources I found. I had some issues surrounding certain formats, such as for advertisements and music however, I made sure the task was completed before the deadline and over the holidays, will double check that everything is correct.
Weekly Recap (16/12/18)
Tasks Completed:
Intentions:
- finished animating my final clip exploring secondary action
- Illustrator induction lesson
Intentions:
- add music and sound effects to the clip for study task 6
- experiment with shading and refine any mistakes if there's time
- convert the blog into a PDF for marking
- write up an evaluation
Wednesday, 12 December 2018
Study Task 3 - Referencing Different Sources
Always (2014) 'Always #LikeAGirl', YouTube, 26 June. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjJQBjWYDTs&feature=youtu.be (Accessed 12 December 2018).
Ant-Man and the Wasp Poster. (2018) Available at: https://wegotthiscovered.com/movies/new-ant-man-wasp-poster-teases-dynamic-duo/ (Accessed: 11 December 2018).
Archonia.com (2014) 'OST Guardians Of The Galaxy Awesome Mix Vol 1 - Full Album', YouTube, 29 September. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoZYaUXmGB8&feature=youtu.be (Accessed: 11 December 2018).
Cross, G. (2015) Consumed Nostalgia: Memory in the Age of Fast Capitalism. Columbia: University Press.
Cruisr (2014) All Over. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKemSP-Ei58&feature=youtu.be&list=PLmNLU0zaJwC0VTqCw2du9-mKIIndPibKw (Downloaded: 11 December 2018).
Disney (1998) I'll Make A Man Out Of You. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVcLIfSC4OE&feature=youtu.be (Downloaded: 11 December 2018).
Furniss, M. (2009) Animation: Art and Industry. Indiana: University Press.
Grande, A. (2018) God is a woman. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHLHSlExFis&feature=youtu.be (Downloaded: 11 December 2018).
Hollinger, K. (1998) In the Company of Women: Contemporary Female Friendship Films. U of Minnesota Press.
Junior Senior (2002) Move Your Feet. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPlQpGeTbIE&feature=youtu.be&list=PLmNLU0zaJwC0VTqCw2du9-mKIIndPibKw (Downloaded: 11 December 2018).
Mintzer, J. (2018) 'Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires: Film Review | Annecy 2018', The Hollywood Reporter, Available at: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/chuck-steel-night-trampires-review-1120846 (Accessed: 10 December 2018).
Money Supermarket. (2017) He-Man and Skeletor Dancing. [Advertisement on ITV] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PgTjhx1VLw&feature=youtu.be (Accessed: 12 December 2018).
Nagel, P. (1982) Untitled [Silk Screen Print]. Available at: http://www.patricknagel.com/gallery.html# (Accessed: 10 December 2018).
Pilling, J. (1997) A Reader in Animation Studies. Indiana: University Press.
Rogers, J. (2018) MCM Expo Birmingham Comic Con [Facebook] 28 November. Available at: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1809626035813263&set=g.425697590868294&type=1&theater&ifg=1 (Accessed: 11 December 2018).
Science and Media Museum. (2009) Drawings That Move: The Art Of Joanna Quinn. Available at: https://www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/what-was-on/drawings-move-art-joanna-quinn (Accessed: 11 December 2018).
Shipper, P. (2018) Ready Player One Poster. Available at: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1677720/mediaviewer/rm4286860032 (Accessed: 10 December 2018).
Sperb, J. (2015) Flickers of Film: Nostalgia in the time of Digital Cinema. Rutgers: University Press.
Stranger Things Season 2 Comic-Con Trailer (2017) Netflix, 22 July. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRG5HeNKwKY&feature=youtu.be (Accessed: 10 December 2018).
Universal Pictures (2018) 'Mortal Engines - Hester Shaw Featurette (HD)', YouTube, 1 October. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KB8Fxs3Qy_w&feature=youtu.be (Accessed: 12 December 2018).
I had the most trouble referencing videos from YouTube that weren't vlogs, as the format meant I couldn't source a specific author/ artist as the channel may have instead been a collection of artists, or rather an account that reuploaded footage I needed from elsewhere without referencing the original source. I also had problems referencing adverts as the guide I was following for this task didn't demonstrate how to do this.
Ant-Man and the Wasp Poster. (2018) Available at: https://wegotthiscovered.com/movies/new-ant-man-wasp-poster-teases-dynamic-duo/ (Accessed: 11 December 2018).
Archonia.com (2014) 'OST Guardians Of The Galaxy Awesome Mix Vol 1 - Full Album', YouTube, 29 September. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoZYaUXmGB8&feature=youtu.be (Accessed: 11 December 2018).
Cross, G. (2015) Consumed Nostalgia: Memory in the Age of Fast Capitalism. Columbia: University Press.
Cruisr (2014) All Over. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKemSP-Ei58&feature=youtu.be&list=PLmNLU0zaJwC0VTqCw2du9-mKIIndPibKw (Downloaded: 11 December 2018).
Disney (1998) I'll Make A Man Out Of You. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVcLIfSC4OE&feature=youtu.be (Downloaded: 11 December 2018).
Furniss, M. (2009) Animation: Art and Industry. Indiana: University Press.
Grande, A. (2018) God is a woman. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHLHSlExFis&feature=youtu.be (Downloaded: 11 December 2018).
Hollinger, K. (1998) In the Company of Women: Contemporary Female Friendship Films. U of Minnesota Press.
Junior Senior (2002) Move Your Feet. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPlQpGeTbIE&feature=youtu.be&list=PLmNLU0zaJwC0VTqCw2du9-mKIIndPibKw (Downloaded: 11 December 2018).
Mintzer, J. (2018) 'Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires: Film Review | Annecy 2018', The Hollywood Reporter, Available at: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/chuck-steel-night-trampires-review-1120846 (Accessed: 10 December 2018).
Money Supermarket. (2017) He-Man and Skeletor Dancing. [Advertisement on ITV] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PgTjhx1VLw&feature=youtu.be (Accessed: 12 December 2018).
Nagel, P. (1982) Untitled [Silk Screen Print]. Available at: http://www.patricknagel.com/gallery.html# (Accessed: 10 December 2018).
Pilling, J. (1997) A Reader in Animation Studies. Indiana: University Press.
Rogers, J. (2018) MCM Expo Birmingham Comic Con [Facebook] 28 November. Available at: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1809626035813263&set=g.425697590868294&type=1&theater&ifg=1 (Accessed: 11 December 2018).
Science and Media Museum. (2009) Drawings That Move: The Art Of Joanna Quinn. Available at: https://www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/what-was-on/drawings-move-art-joanna-quinn (Accessed: 11 December 2018).
Shipper, P. (2018) Ready Player One Poster. Available at: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1677720/mediaviewer/rm4286860032 (Accessed: 10 December 2018).
Sperb, J. (2015) Flickers of Film: Nostalgia in the time of Digital Cinema. Rutgers: University Press.
Stranger Things Season 2 Comic-Con Trailer (2017) Netflix, 22 July. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRG5HeNKwKY&feature=youtu.be (Accessed: 10 December 2018).
Universal Pictures (2018) 'Mortal Engines - Hester Shaw Featurette (HD)', YouTube, 1 October. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KB8Fxs3Qy_w&feature=youtu.be (Accessed: 12 December 2018).
I had the most trouble referencing videos from YouTube that weren't vlogs, as the format meant I couldn't source a specific author/ artist as the channel may have instead been a collection of artists, or rather an account that reuploaded footage I needed from elsewhere without referencing the original source. I also had problems referencing adverts as the guide I was following for this task didn't demonstrate how to do this.
Monday, 10 December 2018
Context of Practice 1 Recap (Week Commencing 03/12/18)
This week, I continued to work in my visual journal towards my chosen essay question, whilst drafting and then eventually writing my first visual analysis for the Ready Player One film poster.
Weekly Recap (09/12/18)
Tasks Completed:
- began working towards the last task for module 403
- wrote my first visual analysis towards my nostalgia essay practice
- continue to animate the ten second clip and add sound to the footage
- create a video showing the progress of the task and write an evaluation
Monday, 3 December 2018
Study Task 5 - The Power to Persuade
I remember seeing this advert on Facebook years ago after it went viral, and I've never forgotten it. The fact this advert is so memorable and unique even after so many years proves how successful this marketing campaign was. (France)
The visuals in this advertisement are absolutely stunning, and the narrative that is told by the racer's internal monologue evokes a very emotional and universal sense of patriotism. (Brazil)
I believe this ad campaign is incredibly successful in demonstrating it's message as it uses humour to attract the right audience it's hoping to reach. The character's designs are also very appealing. (Russia)
This advert stood out to me as I like the use of mixed media. (Canada)
I believe the use of sound to demonstrate the speed and purpose of the product works well in this advert. However, the visuals aren't that captivating so if I were to see this on the television, it wouldn't be that memorable. (Germany)
The timing in this animation is so smooth and the lighting and direction helps to capture the mood of the advert. The message is very influential due to the harsh cut and music chosen. (England)
I find adverts that are able to tell a story, no matter how short, will always be memorable and heart-warming. (Australia)
This is another advert I saw years ago after going viral on YouTube. The use of props and humour makes this a funny, memorable advert, and despite coming out years ago, I still quote it from time to time which means the advert has done it's job well and is very persuasive. (America)
This advert is very strange and funny, and I feel would work well if the target audience were children as the humour may be lost on a more mature audience. (Japan)
Out of all the adverts I watched, I found this one to be the least striking. I believe the story is unoriginal and I find the use of sound to be rather tedious. (India)
Sunday, 2 December 2018
Context of Practice 1 Recap (Week Commencing 26/11/18)
On Saturday, I attended Comic Con. I mainly used this experience to gather evidence towards my visual journal as the convention offers a wide insight into various aspects of animation and film, such as advertisement, merchandising, cosplay, artwork, panels and more.
This week I finished finding sources for Study Task 1 in time to focus on the next task. Alongside this, I began to produce paintings in my visual journal.
This week I finished finding sources for Study Task 1 in time to focus on the next task. Alongside this, I began to produce paintings in my visual journal.
Study Task 2 - Visual Analysis
The composition in this poster and use of electric tones such as blue and purple may be a reference to Tron as both films are about the protagonist being completely immersed into a video game. This layout and style could also be a reference to the artist Drew Struzan; known for his iconic eighties posters. The airbrushed look and placement of characters is seen a lot in Struzan's pieces which may allow the audience to feel nostalgic when they seen this poster and therefore, more inclined to see the film. The bright, exposed areas of light add to the poster's time-worn look, as this weathered effect makes it look as though the poster was printed back in the eighties, and has been hanging around in someone's garage since.
The poster also explores beloved eighties traits, such as the hooded, mysterious figure in the background looming over the main characters which is seen often in Star Wars posters. Similarly to the book, the poster also illustrates many references to various films from previous generations such as Back to the Future, Iron Giant and Cowboy Bebop, to name a few.
Even the font evokes a sense of nostalgia as the capital lettering and retro feel could remind the viewer of old computer fonts, like the typefaces from the computers in War Games or Weird Science.
The poster also explores beloved eighties traits, such as the hooded, mysterious figure in the background looming over the main characters which is seen often in Star Wars posters. Similarly to the book, the poster also illustrates many references to various films from previous generations such as Back to the Future, Iron Giant and Cowboy Bebop, to name a few.
Even the font evokes a sense of nostalgia as the capital lettering and retro feel could remind the viewer of old computer fonts, like the typefaces from the computers in War Games or Weird Science.
Weekly Recap (02/12/18)
Tasks Completed:
Intentions:
- painted a few illustrations in my visual journal inspired by nostalgia
- attended an LED Lighting induction
- added sound to my animation (exploring exaggeration and anticipation)
- made sure blog work was up to date so I can focus on producing my next animation for study task 6
- filmed several reference videos for potential routes I can take my next project down
Intentions:
- sketch a storyboard and design a character for my next study task
- continue to work in my visual journal alongside my other tasks
Study Task 5 - Bouncing Heads and Falling Bodies
Anticipation and Exaggeration
Inspired by Wile E. Coyote, I began this study task by sketching a storyboard featuring two characters who find a ticking time bomb, play hot potato with it and inevitably blow up, in a true cartoon-esque fashion.
Once I finished my rough draft and sketched the before and after designs of the characters so that they remained consistent, I soon began to animate them in Photoshop. I spent roughly four hours working on the timing in a scene in which they both realise their fate and reluctantly accept it by looking nervously at the audience, shrugging, and I had one character pull a sign out from behind his back that expressed his concern.
Then, the university experienced a power cut. Despite the fact that I frequently save my work, it soon dawned on me that I hadn't backed up my saved file and consequentially, lost all of my work. The only evidence I have is a photo I took to send to a friend, which sums up my feelings around this experience.
I decided to start again. I needed a story that captured the same sense of exaggerated anticipation as my original animation however I wanted it to be more personal and unique to me. Then, the answer came to me when my cousin filled me in on his day at the swimming baths.
I started again the same way I did my first animation, by sketching a quick storyboard and a turnaround of my cousin's head. The story goes, he went swimming and someone pooed in the pool. So, for my first scene, I wanted to portray an exaggerated sense of complete and utter disbelief and disgust. I thought the best way to do this would be a dolly zoom so I converted the background into a smart object and transformed the pool so it stretched behind him.
Link to Dolly Zoom
I animated the next scene again using Photoshop however found the motion to be incredibly shaky and distracting, so I removed the background and exported the image sequence to After Effects. I tried to stabilise the clip as best I could, with the help of my teacher as I haven't used this software before and then once happy with the new movements, I added my background and animated this around the character so it looked more natural.
Link to Failed Attempt
Link to Refined Clip
Follow Through and Overlapping Action
The next scene I animated was the shot where the poop is on a direct course toward my cousin while he is floundering around in the water. I thought it was comical how while my cousin is struggling and splashing the water about, this doesn't effect the poop (almost as though the poop defines it's own laws of physics).
Link to Panic Shot
In the next shot, the poop does sit more naturally on top of the water and bounces along it's ripples unlike the scene above which I feel only makes the previous scene funnier as I feel this personifies the poop, as though it was going about it's own business until it spotted my cousin, and then was filled with an overwhelming sense of determination to catch up to him.
As we had to include an element of mixed media in this study task, I painted a background in my book and using Dragonframe, created a cut-out animation. Then using Premiere Pro, I tried to correct the colour of the clip as the lighting gave the scene a yellow hue which I wanted to mute so the colours were cooler. However I haven't had this induction lesson yet either so I was limited in my practice.
Link to Poop Clip
Once I had finished animating these clips, I edited them together and added sound. While my original storyboard did have a couple extra shots that concluded the animation, I thought it was funnier to leave the clip on more of a cliff-hanger, especially after I added the screams.
Link to Final Animation
If I had more time, I would explore further scenes to see whether this would make for a better ending however considering that the university experienced three power cuts over the duration of this study task, I feel the footage I have demonstrates the principles well enough not to need any extra scenes.
Inspired by Wile E. Coyote, I began this study task by sketching a storyboard featuring two characters who find a ticking time bomb, play hot potato with it and inevitably blow up, in a true cartoon-esque fashion.
Once I finished my rough draft and sketched the before and after designs of the characters so that they remained consistent, I soon began to animate them in Photoshop. I spent roughly four hours working on the timing in a scene in which they both realise their fate and reluctantly accept it by looking nervously at the audience, shrugging, and I had one character pull a sign out from behind his back that expressed his concern.
Then, the university experienced a power cut. Despite the fact that I frequently save my work, it soon dawned on me that I hadn't backed up my saved file and consequentially, lost all of my work. The only evidence I have is a photo I took to send to a friend, which sums up my feelings around this experience.
I decided to start again. I needed a story that captured the same sense of exaggerated anticipation as my original animation however I wanted it to be more personal and unique to me. Then, the answer came to me when my cousin filled me in on his day at the swimming baths.
I started again the same way I did my first animation, by sketching a quick storyboard and a turnaround of my cousin's head. The story goes, he went swimming and someone pooed in the pool. So, for my first scene, I wanted to portray an exaggerated sense of complete and utter disbelief and disgust. I thought the best way to do this would be a dolly zoom so I converted the background into a smart object and transformed the pool so it stretched behind him.
Link to Dolly Zoom
I animated the next scene again using Photoshop however found the motion to be incredibly shaky and distracting, so I removed the background and exported the image sequence to After Effects. I tried to stabilise the clip as best I could, with the help of my teacher as I haven't used this software before and then once happy with the new movements, I added my background and animated this around the character so it looked more natural.
Link to Failed Attempt
Link to Refined Clip
Follow Through and Overlapping Action
The next scene I animated was the shot where the poop is on a direct course toward my cousin while he is floundering around in the water. I thought it was comical how while my cousin is struggling and splashing the water about, this doesn't effect the poop (almost as though the poop defines it's own laws of physics).
Link to Panic Shot
In the next shot, the poop does sit more naturally on top of the water and bounces along it's ripples unlike the scene above which I feel only makes the previous scene funnier as I feel this personifies the poop, as though it was going about it's own business until it spotted my cousin, and then was filled with an overwhelming sense of determination to catch up to him.
As we had to include an element of mixed media in this study task, I painted a background in my book and using Dragonframe, created a cut-out animation. Then using Premiere Pro, I tried to correct the colour of the clip as the lighting gave the scene a yellow hue which I wanted to mute so the colours were cooler. However I haven't had this induction lesson yet either so I was limited in my practice.
Link to Poop Clip
Once I had finished animating these clips, I edited them together and added sound. While my original storyboard did have a couple extra shots that concluded the animation, I thought it was funnier to leave the clip on more of a cliff-hanger, especially after I added the screams.
Link to Final Animation
If I had more time, I would explore further scenes to see whether this would make for a better ending however considering that the university experienced three power cuts over the duration of this study task, I feel the footage I have demonstrates the principles well enough not to need any extra scenes.
Wednesday, 28 November 2018
Study Task 1 - Types of Sources
Nostalgia
For this theme, I want to explore how certain aesthetic choices are made in order to connect emotionally to an audience, by accessing a schema surrounding memories from their youth.
Four Moving Images:
This video adheres to the theme of nostalgia as the song not only reminds me of my own childhood however the style also references 8-bit arcade games, such as Frogger, Galaga and Donkey Kong.
I've noticed recently that a lot of films and tv series that come out today are set in or based on the 1980s such as, Stranger Things, Ready Player One, X-Men Apocalypse, The Goldbergs etc. or they are rebooted franchises such as, Blade Runner, She Ra, Star Trek etc. Parodies are also respected such as the Keith and Paddy Picture Show.
This animated music video also references iconic films.
Once more, even advertisements pay homage to iconic films and series from the 1980s.
Three Written Sources:
Cross, G. (2015) Consumed Nostalgia: Memory in the Age of Fast Capitalism. Columbia: University Press.
'Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires': Film Review | Annecy 2018
Sperb, J. (2015) Flickers of Film: Nostalgia in the time of Digital Cinema. Rutgers: University Press.
Two Still Images:
The aesthetic design of this poster is clearly influenced by artist Drew Struzan, responsible for many iconic film posters such as: Back to the Future, Indiana Jones and Star Wars.
Nagel, P. (1982) The Nagel Woman.
One Other Source:
Listening to a mixtape through a cassette player can transport you into a certain headspace as physically, it is able to trigger certain memories. The Awesome Mix Vol. 1 and 2 from Guardians of the Galaxy has clearly been deliberately sampled and ordered in such a way.
Inclusive Storytelling
I believe that celebrating a variety of strong women in media and animation, and who are strong for many different reasons, is important as a storyteller.
Four Moving Images:
Hester Shaw is a perfect example of how to write a complex and flawed yet wholehearted heroic female character who has depth and isn't perfect. Nor does she rely on her looks alone. Although this does bring up complications when comparing the books to the film adaptation as Hollywood still can't handle an "ugly" woman lead.
I grew up watching films with compelling female leads such as Mulan which is why I feel inclusive storytelling is so important to younger generations.
These themes should also be highlighted through advertisement as in the past, most women in adverts are objectified to sell a certain product.
Joanna Quinn is an incredibly inspirational animator to women also studying in this field.
Three Written Sources:
Pilling, J. (1997) A Reader in Animation Studies. Indiana: University Press
Furniss, M. (2009) Animation: Art and Industry. Indiana: University Press
Hollinger, K. (1998) In the Company of Women: Contemporary Female Friendship Films. U of Minnesota Press
Two Still Images:
It's refreshing to see a woman facing the camera on a poster whilst the man is behind (doing the over the shoulder pose) as in most cases, these roles would be reversed. In many posters, there is a trend of the "faceless woman" where only her legs or boobs would be in shot, so this is an important step in the right direction.
I visited Comic Con this weekend and saw many woman of different shapes and sizes cosplaying various characters from popular culture. It felt incredibly empowering.
One Other Source:
Ariana Grande is a very inspiring role model for young girls. The visuals in this music video are stunning and powerful.
For this theme, I want to explore how certain aesthetic choices are made in order to connect emotionally to an audience, by accessing a schema surrounding memories from their youth.
Four Moving Images:
This video adheres to the theme of nostalgia as the song not only reminds me of my own childhood however the style also references 8-bit arcade games, such as Frogger, Galaga and Donkey Kong.
I've noticed recently that a lot of films and tv series that come out today are set in or based on the 1980s such as, Stranger Things, Ready Player One, X-Men Apocalypse, The Goldbergs etc. or they are rebooted franchises such as, Blade Runner, She Ra, Star Trek etc. Parodies are also respected such as the Keith and Paddy Picture Show.
This animated music video also references iconic films.
Once more, even advertisements pay homage to iconic films and series from the 1980s.
Three Written Sources:
Cross, G. (2015) Consumed Nostalgia: Memory in the Age of Fast Capitalism. Columbia: University Press.
'Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires': Film Review | Annecy 2018
Sperb, J. (2015) Flickers of Film: Nostalgia in the time of Digital Cinema. Rutgers: University Press.
Two Still Images:
The aesthetic design of this poster is clearly influenced by artist Drew Struzan, responsible for many iconic film posters such as: Back to the Future, Indiana Jones and Star Wars.
Nagel, P. (1982) The Nagel Woman.
One Other Source:
Listening to a mixtape through a cassette player can transport you into a certain headspace as physically, it is able to trigger certain memories. The Awesome Mix Vol. 1 and 2 from Guardians of the Galaxy has clearly been deliberately sampled and ordered in such a way.
Inclusive Storytelling
I believe that celebrating a variety of strong women in media and animation, and who are strong for many different reasons, is important as a storyteller.
Four Moving Images:
Hester Shaw is a perfect example of how to write a complex and flawed yet wholehearted heroic female character who has depth and isn't perfect. Nor does she rely on her looks alone. Although this does bring up complications when comparing the books to the film adaptation as Hollywood still can't handle an "ugly" woman lead.
I grew up watching films with compelling female leads such as Mulan which is why I feel inclusive storytelling is so important to younger generations.
These themes should also be highlighted through advertisement as in the past, most women in adverts are objectified to sell a certain product.
Joanna Quinn is an incredibly inspirational animator to women also studying in this field.
Three Written Sources:
Pilling, J. (1997) A Reader in Animation Studies. Indiana: University Press
Furniss, M. (2009) Animation: Art and Industry. Indiana: University Press
Hollinger, K. (1998) In the Company of Women: Contemporary Female Friendship Films. U of Minnesota Press
Two Still Images:
It's refreshing to see a woman facing the camera on a poster whilst the man is behind (doing the over the shoulder pose) as in most cases, these roles would be reversed. In many posters, there is a trend of the "faceless woman" where only her legs or boobs would be in shot, so this is an important step in the right direction.
I visited Comic Con this weekend and saw many woman of different shapes and sizes cosplaying various characters from popular culture. It felt incredibly empowering.
One Other Source:
Ariana Grande is a very inspiring role model for young girls. The visuals in this music video are stunning and powerful.
Tuesday, 27 November 2018
Context of Practice 1 Recap (Week Commencing 19/11/18)
This week we were briefed on our first study task; for which we must find twenty sources that explore two potential essay question topics. The two topics I have chosen are:
- nostalgia
- inclusive story telling
Weekly Recap (25/11/18)
Tasks Completed:
Intentions:
- visited Birmingham Comic Con
- completed three scenes towards Study Task 5 (Animation Skills)
- began looking into sources for Context of Practice 1
- attended a DLSR Induction session
- refine certain frames using After Effects
- identify ten adverts from different countries for PP1
- write up the sources on the blog alongside a weekly update for CoP1
- add sound to my final animation
Sunday, 18 November 2018
Study Task 4 - Let Me Entertain You!
Twelve Animations (from Twelve Countries)
1) Amaro and Walden's Joyride - The Line (GB 2015)
Before I visited MAF, I discovered this clip on YouTube and chose to include it as I felt the animator gave great consideration to every aspect of the character's appeal. While at MAF, The Line presented a Masterclass covering their previous commissions and having seen their various techniques, this only made me more interested in this style of animation.
2) Afternoon Class - Seoro Oh (South Korea 2015)
Sound in this clip is utilised effectively to further connect to the audience's emotions as they follow the relatable narrative before them. The metaphorical visuals work incredibly well alongside the sound in this 2D digital animation. Considering the aesthetic, the colour stood out to me in this clip.
3) Scrambled - Polder Animation (Netherlands 2017)
This film is slightly longer than the first two however I feel the length is exactly right to tell the narrative without losing the interest of the audience, which I found a few other animations were guilty of.
4) Raymonde or the Vertical Escape - Sarah Van Den Boom (France 2018)
At MAF, I was introduced to this animation. I thought the story was thought-provoking and emotional, and the concept left the audience with a certain impression that was unique to the film and couldn't be replicated.
5) Who's Hungry? - David Ochs (US 2009)
The use of sound in this animation I believe helps capture the horror the story tells of; particularly the screeches of the kidnapper and the whirring of the blender. The lack of colour and sketchy, pencil-drawn style I find also evokes a more melancholy and uneasy vibe to the clip. The length also works well in leaving the audience apprehensive of what is about to happen, yet is also not too drawn out that they lose interest.
6) Animal Behaviour - Alison Snowden and David Fine (Canada 2018)
The voice acting in this clip and behavioural stereotypes based on the animals I feel made the animation much more wholesome even though the basic concept is a little more cynical masked with humour.
7) Wildebeest - Nicholas Keppens and Matthias Phlips (Belgium 2017)
I found the tone of this animation to be rather dark despite the fact there is humour running throughout. I thought this juxtaposition worked well in order to invoke a certain, unique response from the audience, which left questions in their minds.
8) Squaring the Circle - Karolina Specht (Poland 2018)
The use of abstract metaphors in this animation I felt provided something unique and fresh to the media.
9) One Small Step - Taiko (US/China 2018)
Similarly to the first clip, I felt the characters' designs were incredibly captivating and likeable.
10) The Fox - Sadegh Javadi Nikjeh (Iran 2018)
At MAF, I watched this animation. I thought the story was poignant and riveting. Aesthetically, the design (particularly the background) I believe adds another layer to the overall message by capturing a particular tone.
Link to the Fox Trailer
11) The Fly - Ferenc Rofusz (Hungary 1980)
I chose this clip as it uses a different technique to the others and also is much older so I can see the variation in animation and how it has evolved as time has gone on.
12) Death of a Father - Somnath Pal (India 2017)
This animation evoked an incredibly strong emotional response from not just myself, but most of the audience it reached as the focus of the film is something most people will experience in their lifetimes. The artistic design reminded me of old Pop Art pieces.
1) Amaro and Walden's Joyride - The Line (GB 2015)
Before I visited MAF, I discovered this clip on YouTube and chose to include it as I felt the animator gave great consideration to every aspect of the character's appeal. While at MAF, The Line presented a Masterclass covering their previous commissions and having seen their various techniques, this only made me more interested in this style of animation.
2) Afternoon Class - Seoro Oh (South Korea 2015)
Sound in this clip is utilised effectively to further connect to the audience's emotions as they follow the relatable narrative before them. The metaphorical visuals work incredibly well alongside the sound in this 2D digital animation. Considering the aesthetic, the colour stood out to me in this clip.
3) Scrambled - Polder Animation (Netherlands 2017)
This film is slightly longer than the first two however I feel the length is exactly right to tell the narrative without losing the interest of the audience, which I found a few other animations were guilty of.
4) Raymonde or the Vertical Escape - Sarah Van Den Boom (France 2018)
At MAF, I was introduced to this animation. I thought the story was thought-provoking and emotional, and the concept left the audience with a certain impression that was unique to the film and couldn't be replicated.
5) Who's Hungry? - David Ochs (US 2009)
The use of sound in this animation I believe helps capture the horror the story tells of; particularly the screeches of the kidnapper and the whirring of the blender. The lack of colour and sketchy, pencil-drawn style I find also evokes a more melancholy and uneasy vibe to the clip. The length also works well in leaving the audience apprehensive of what is about to happen, yet is also not too drawn out that they lose interest.
6) Animal Behaviour - Alison Snowden and David Fine (Canada 2018)
The voice acting in this clip and behavioural stereotypes based on the animals I feel made the animation much more wholesome even though the basic concept is a little more cynical masked with humour.
7) Wildebeest - Nicholas Keppens and Matthias Phlips (Belgium 2017)
I found the tone of this animation to be rather dark despite the fact there is humour running throughout. I thought this juxtaposition worked well in order to invoke a certain, unique response from the audience, which left questions in their minds.
8) Squaring the Circle - Karolina Specht (Poland 2018)
The use of abstract metaphors in this animation I felt provided something unique and fresh to the media.
9) One Small Step - Taiko (US/China 2018)
Similarly to the first clip, I felt the characters' designs were incredibly captivating and likeable.
10) The Fox - Sadegh Javadi Nikjeh (Iran 2018)
Link to the Fox Trailer
11) The Fly - Ferenc Rofusz (Hungary 1980)
I chose this clip as it uses a different technique to the others and also is much older so I can see the variation in animation and how it has evolved as time has gone on.
12) Death of a Father - Somnath Pal (India 2017)
This animation evoked an incredibly strong emotional response from not just myself, but most of the audience it reached as the focus of the film is something most people will experience in their lifetimes. The artistic design reminded me of old Pop Art pieces.
Weekly Recap (18/11/18)
Tasks Completed:
Intentions:
- wrote first COP1 update
- finished animation for LoopdeLoop
- visited MAF
Intentions:
- sketch character designs in concertina
- research nostalgia in animation
- add sound to LoopdeLoop clip
Saturday, 17 November 2018
Study Task 3 - Research
10 Online Sources
5 Print Based Magazines/ Journals
5 Books
3 Places
- On Animation
- AWN
- Skwigly
- Animation Studies 2.0
- Cartoon Brew
- Short of the Week
- YouTube
- The Line Animation
- 3D Total
- Slurpy Animation Studios
5 Print Based Magazines/ Journals
- Animation Magazine
- A General Aesthetics of American Animation Sound Design - Paul Taberham
- Fudge Animation Journal
- 3D World Magazine
- Wild Cartoon Kingdom Magazine
5 Books
- Animation: The Global History - Maureen Furniss
- The Animator's Survival Kit - Richard E. Williams
- Animated Performance: Bringing Imaginary Animal, Human and Fantasy Characters to Life - Nancy Beiman
- Animation: A World History - Giannalberto Bendazzi
- The World History of Animation - Stephen Cavalier
3 Places
- The National Science and Media Museum
- The Manchester Animation Festival
- Birmingham MCM Comic Con
Friday, 16 November 2018
Context of Practice 1 Recap (Week Commencing 12/11/18)
2. Manipulation, aesthetic choice, lack of identity... How is the concept of nostalgia utilised by the creators of animated content?
This question stood out to me as when I was younger, my mum brought me up on films and music from her own childhood, meaning as I grew up, it was almost as though I longed for a time I hadn't even lived in.
I also feel there are a lot of new films and television series either set in the 1980s, or have been filmed in such a way that remind me of these older films.
After MAF, I felt even more certain that this was the question I wanted to pick as I saw some animations I felt definitely relied on nostalgia.
This question stood out to me as when I was younger, my mum brought me up on films and music from her own childhood, meaning as I grew up, it was almost as though I longed for a time I hadn't even lived in.
I also feel there are a lot of new films and television series either set in the 1980s, or have been filmed in such a way that remind me of these older films.
After MAF, I felt even more certain that this was the question I wanted to pick as I saw some animations I felt definitely relied on nostalgia.
- The Line - Super Turbo Atomic Ninja Rabbit
- Mike Mort - Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires
Monday, 12 November 2018
Study Task 4 - The Great Bouncing Ball Challenge
Part A
Exploring straight ahead animation, I shaped a piece of plasticine into a ball and using Dragonframe, animated it dropping on the floor. This way, I could focus on timing by squashing and stretching the ball so that it portrayed different speeds at different heights.
Link to Ball Drop
Part B
Using footage I filmed in person and also referencing a diagram depicting arcs, I animated using the same software, a ball bouncing across the floor. This time however, I practiced pose-to-pose animation as I needed to make sure the ball was at the correct height after each bounce.
Link to Ball Bounce
Part C
In groups of four, we animated a pendulum swing in Dragonframe. Because we used a pencil, we didn't have the power to manipulate the object the same way we could a ball of plasticine so, we needed to look into easing to capture that sense of speed.
I made a conscious effort to keep the tip of the pencil in the same position and also rotated the pencil as we animated so it appeared to be rolling. However, I feel the timing is a little too mechanical.
Link to Pendulum Swing
We then had a couple lessons in Photoshop experimenting with rotoscoping. I began by doing a quick sketch of a ball on a string however I wanted to refine this by adding a 3D element as well as colour to the animation. By doing so however, I lost the means that allowed it to loop as the ball spun slightly which meant the first and final frame didn't match up.
Link to Ball Swing
Part D
Applying the skills I had learned from the rotoscoping lesson, I animated a short looping clip of a pair of crocs that explored the principles we have covered so far. I particularly paid attention to squash and stretch, easing, and timing. As the theme of the project was "shoes" these movements were more subtle as I focused them in the expressions, especially the eyes, of my personified croc. I also added a couple flies to my final animation to further demonstrate these principles.
In future, I need to work on simplifying the task as I feel the clip above didn't need half as many frames as I had animated and if my knowledge of Photoshop was more developed, I'm sure I could have found a way to avoid adding these unnecessary frames.
Link to Final Animation
Link to Reference Video (Part A)
Link to Reference Video (Part B)
Link to Reference Video (Part C)
Exploring straight ahead animation, I shaped a piece of plasticine into a ball and using Dragonframe, animated it dropping on the floor. This way, I could focus on timing by squashing and stretching the ball so that it portrayed different speeds at different heights.
Link to Ball Drop
Part B
Using footage I filmed in person and also referencing a diagram depicting arcs, I animated using the same software, a ball bouncing across the floor. This time however, I practiced pose-to-pose animation as I needed to make sure the ball was at the correct height after each bounce.
Link to Ball Bounce
Part C
In groups of four, we animated a pendulum swing in Dragonframe. Because we used a pencil, we didn't have the power to manipulate the object the same way we could a ball of plasticine so, we needed to look into easing to capture that sense of speed.
I made a conscious effort to keep the tip of the pencil in the same position and also rotated the pencil as we animated so it appeared to be rolling. However, I feel the timing is a little too mechanical.
Link to Pendulum Swing
We then had a couple lessons in Photoshop experimenting with rotoscoping. I began by doing a quick sketch of a ball on a string however I wanted to refine this by adding a 3D element as well as colour to the animation. By doing so however, I lost the means that allowed it to loop as the ball spun slightly which meant the first and final frame didn't match up.
Link to Ball Swing
Part D
Applying the skills I had learned from the rotoscoping lesson, I animated a short looping clip of a pair of crocs that explored the principles we have covered so far. I particularly paid attention to squash and stretch, easing, and timing. As the theme of the project was "shoes" these movements were more subtle as I focused them in the expressions, especially the eyes, of my personified croc. I also added a couple flies to my final animation to further demonstrate these principles.
In future, I need to work on simplifying the task as I feel the clip above didn't need half as many frames as I had animated and if my knowledge of Photoshop was more developed, I'm sure I could have found a way to avoid adding these unnecessary frames.
Link to Final Animation
Link to Reference Video (Part A)
Link to Reference Video (Part B)
Link to Reference Video (Part C)
Sunday, 11 November 2018
Weekly Recap (11/11/18)
Tasks Completed:
Intentions:
- attended a Photoshop session on rotoscoping
- animated three pendulum clips using various techniques and media
- began working toward the final part of the great bouncing ball challenge
Intentions:
- colour my final animation before the deadline
- if possible, add extra elements such as sound to my animation ready to enter it for LoopdeLoop
- prepare for the Manchester Animation Festival
Monday, 5 November 2018
Weekly Recap (04/11/18)
Tasks Completed:
Intentions:
- created two short animations looking into timing and movement
- began exploring different types of animation from around the world
- attended the second Photoshop workshop
Intentions:
- move onto parts C and D of this week's study task
- make sure I complete the tasks set next week ready for MAF the following week
Monday, 29 October 2018
Study Task 2 - Who Am I?
Who Am I?
Why you chose to study on this course?
- given the opportunity to use professional equipment and software I wouldn't normally have access to
- expand my practice (by exploring new techniques I wouldn't have considered)
- meet others who share a passion for animation and exchange valuable criticism to further my own development
- through university, attend competitions/festivals which builds connections to larger companies
- gain plenty of experience which helps to build a strong portfolio so I can find a job
What do you want to learn during your time on the course?
- 3D CGI animation (combining animation with live action)
- 2D digital animation (developing my cartoonistic style)
- how to use software such as Photoshop and more advanced industry level programmes
- build a professional portfolio and experience of what it's like to work with a team of animators to a strict deadline
- transferable job skills (such as interview techniques and time management)
What skills do you think are your strengths?
- painting/ rendering detailed characters with correct colouring and precise marks
- effectively sketch characters from my head and accurately portray my inner vision
- motivated and disciplined when it comes to getting work finished
- from observation, I believe my proportions are accurate and correct
- blogging consistently
What things that you want to improve?
- puppetry and stop motion animation (as I need to gain experience in this area)
- taking more of a back seat when working in a team (as I can be quite controlling if I'm not challenged)
- my Photoshop abilities
- manage my time more effectively to avoid unnecessary panic or stress
- writing more concisely and to the point instead of rambling
What ways you will evaluate your progress?
- posting weekly blog updates reflecting on my work
- group critique sessions to get my peers' feedback
- critically analysing my own work through regular evaluations
- booking one to one sessions with my tutors
- challenging my ideas by suggesting alternative interpretations
Weekly Recap (28/10/18)
Tasks Completed:
- created two animations using Pencil2D to practice timing
- attended a Photoshop workshop where I tidied up and coloured a piece by Ben Simpson
- wrote up a second draft of my 'Who Am I' blog post
Intentions:
- write the final draft for 'Who Am I'
- work on the next principle set in upcoming classes (bouncing a ball)
- attend the second Photoshop workshop to learn to animate in the software
Friday, 26 October 2018
Study Task 3 - Timing
Timing
I began by sketching the different stages of a blink which I animated over four images.
Link to Blinking Video (mp4 - 24fps)
I then had to animate the actions connecting two frames from my storyboard. In the future, I will take relevant notes as I originally misread this which required me to start again, costing time.
Link to Timing Practice
I practiced first by selecting twelve key frames from "Pig Goat Banana Cricket" and using Dragonframe, I tried to make the timing as smooth as possible.
I made each of my twelve images twelve frames long so I could later remove or add frames to make the timing less rhythmic and monotonous.
Link to First Animation (Each Image for 12 Frames)
Link to Animation (Correct Timing)
I deleted certain frames to make the animation flow. I refined the scene by adding eyelids to certain frames to make the characters blink.
Link to Refined Animation
As I had time in class to experiment a little more with my animation, I added some sound effects to the clip. I feel the movements are slightly twitchy and if I wanted to refine the clip further, I would add frames to make them smoother.
Link to Clip with Sound
Link to Blinking Video (mp4 - 24fps)
I then had to animate the actions connecting two frames from my storyboard. In the future, I will take relevant notes as I originally misread this which required me to start again, costing time.
Link to Timing Practice
I practiced first by selecting twelve key frames from "Pig Goat Banana Cricket" and using Dragonframe, I tried to make the timing as smooth as possible.
I made each of my twelve images twelve frames long so I could later remove or add frames to make the timing less rhythmic and monotonous.
Link to First Animation (Each Image for 12 Frames)
Link to Animation (Correct Timing)
I deleted certain frames to make the animation flow. I refined the scene by adding eyelids to certain frames to make the characters blink.
Link to Refined Animation
As I had time in class to experiment a little more with my animation, I added some sound effects to the clip. I feel the movements are slightly twitchy and if I wanted to refine the clip further, I would add frames to make them smoother.
Link to Clip with Sound
Sunday, 21 October 2018
Weekly Recap (21/10/18)
Tasks Completed:
- rendered turn-around sheet and dynamic model sheet
- painted a six frame storyboard
- first draft of "What Am I?" blog post
Intentions:
- read Animation: The Global History by Maureen Furniss
- finish my "What Am I?" blog post
- continue to build the world and story around my character
Saturday, 20 October 2018
Study Task 2 - Characterisation and Design
Appeal
I began this task by sketching various features and pairing them together until I found a combination that I felt captured the archetype I had chosen.
However, upon reflection while considering how I would animate this character, I felt this design would be quite complicated due to the outfit I had designed for him.
I therefore decided to start again however with a new archetype so that I didn't feel obliged to try and make a copy of the same character.
Link to Character Development Document
I used acrylic paint to render the design after refining it until I was happy with the outcome, as previous prototypes I had sketched reminded me of other cartoon characters and I wanted my design to be more personal.
Link to Character Turn Around
I then sketched my character walking and running. Due to his tall, thin design, I had a lot to consider while illustrating these dynamic poses as I feel his walk is something that will define many of his traits due to it being such an eye-catching, important part of his design.
I then referred to my Character Development Sheet, and sketched him tripping, and also falling as I feel this captures his clumsiness and ability to get himself into trouble. I also painted several different expressions.
Link to Dynamic Pose Sheet
I added a silhouette model to my dynamic pose sheet after this was suggested to me, of my character stood at a 3/4 angle which I edited through Photoshop.
Link to *Updated* Dynamic Pose Sheet
Staging
I made a mask of my design so that I could direct a friend whilst taking photographs to use as a reference when sketching my six frame storyboard.
Once again, I used acrylic paint to colour my original sketches however I soon realised how time consuming this technique was. I didn't want to leave any parts unfinished however, so I persisted nonetheless in order to get the frames finished allowing me enough time to then touch up any mistakes using Photoshop.
Link to Six Frame Storyboard
I began this task by sketching various features and pairing them together until I found a combination that I felt captured the archetype I had chosen.
However, upon reflection while considering how I would animate this character, I felt this design would be quite complicated due to the outfit I had designed for him.
Link to Character Development Document
I used acrylic paint to render the design after refining it until I was happy with the outcome, as previous prototypes I had sketched reminded me of other cartoon characters and I wanted my design to be more personal.
Link to Character Turn Around
I then sketched my character walking and running. Due to his tall, thin design, I had a lot to consider while illustrating these dynamic poses as I feel his walk is something that will define many of his traits due to it being such an eye-catching, important part of his design.
I then referred to my Character Development Sheet, and sketched him tripping, and also falling as I feel this captures his clumsiness and ability to get himself into trouble. I also painted several different expressions.
Link to Dynamic Pose Sheet
I added a silhouette model to my dynamic pose sheet after this was suggested to me, of my character stood at a 3/4 angle which I edited through Photoshop.
Link to *Updated* Dynamic Pose Sheet
Staging
I made a mask of my design so that I could direct a friend whilst taking photographs to use as a reference when sketching my six frame storyboard.
Once again, I used acrylic paint to colour my original sketches however I soon realised how time consuming this technique was. I didn't want to leave any parts unfinished however, so I persisted nonetheless in order to get the frames finished allowing me enough time to then touch up any mistakes using Photoshop.
Link to Six Frame Storyboard
Monday, 15 October 2018
Weekly Recap (14/10/18)
Tasks Completed:
Intentions:
- 1st principle of drawing explored through completing twenty observational drawings
- began 2nd principle through designing multiple characters and eventually refining one
- began to render turnaround sheet for said character
- explored various expressions/ emotions
- wrote up character development sheet (appeal)
Intentions:
- complete turnaround sheet and begin work towards a second reference sheet (dynamic poses)
- create a mask of my design
- create a short storyboard (staging)
Friday, 12 October 2018
Study Task 1 - Solid Drawing
Drawing and Development
I sketched ten line of action wire drawings from observation. I believe my proportions are accurate however I need to develop my artistic style.
I chose five to "flesh out".
I then moved onto a different model, repeated the previous steps, and refined the pieces by adding shadows/ highlights using various techniques.
I used acrylics for my first spot colour piece.
I quickly discovered how little time I had when using paint so for my next piece, I used markers.
Finally, I had half an hour to produce a full colour study. I began the piece by painting the left figure, yet I felt the character lacked weight. I spent roughly another thirty minutes painting a second figure to provide balance to the composition.
Link to 20 Drawings (PDF)
I sketched ten line of action wire drawings from observation. I believe my proportions are accurate however I need to develop my artistic style.
I chose five to "flesh out".
I then moved onto a different model, repeated the previous steps, and refined the pieces by adding shadows/ highlights using various techniques.
I quickly discovered how little time I had when using paint so for my next piece, I used markers.
Finally, I had half an hour to produce a full colour study. I began the piece by painting the left figure, yet I felt the character lacked weight. I spent roughly another thirty minutes painting a second figure to provide balance to the composition.
Link to 20 Drawings (PDF)
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