Animation Principles

Animation is the process of creating the illusion of movement by displaying a series of still images in rapid succession. The principles of animation are a set of guidelines that help animators create realistic and believable movement. These principles were first developed by Disney animators in the early 20th century, and they have since become the foundation of animation around the world.

What are the 12 Principles of Animation?

The 12 principles of animation are:

• Squash and stretch: Objects should deform and stretch in a realistic way when they move.
• Anticipation: A movement should be preceded by a preparation or anticipation movement.
• Staging: The camera should be positioned in a way that clearly shows the action and conveys the story.
• Straight ahead action and pose to pose: There are two main methods of animation: straight ahead action (animating one frame at a time) and pose to pose (animating key frames and then filling in the in-betweens).
• Follow through and overlapping action: After an object moves, it should continue to move for a short time after the force is applied.
• Slow in and slow out: Objects should accelerate and decelerate gradually, rather than moving at a constant speed.
• Arcs: Objects should move in arcs, rather than straight lines.
• Secondary action: In addition to the main action, there should be secondary actions that add detail and realism.
• Timing: The timing of the animation should be consistent and appropriate for the story.
• Exaggeration: Animation can be exaggerated to make it more expressive and entertaining.
• Solid drawing: Animators should have a strong understanding of drawing, so that they can create characters and objects that look realistic and believable.
• Appeal: Animation should be visually appealing and entertaining.

Why are the Principles of Animation Important?

The principles of animation are important because they help animators create realistic and believable movement. By following these principles, animators can create characters and objects that move in a way that is consistent with the laws of physics and the way that we perceive movement in the real world. This helps to create a sense of immersion and realism, which can make the animation more enjoyable and engaging for viewers.

How Can I Learn the Principles of Animation?

There are many ways to learn the principles of animation. One way is to take an online course. There are many different online courses available, and they can provide a comprehensive introduction to the principles of animation. Another way to learn the principles of animation is to read books and articles about the subject. There are many different books and articles available, and they can provide a wealth of information on the principles of animation.

What are Some Online Courses on the Principles of Animation?

There are many different online courses on the principles of animation. Some of the most popular courses include:

• After Effects CC: Motion Graphics & Animation Principles
• Building Go Web Services and Applications
• Introduction to Animation
• The Animator's Survival Kit
• Animation Bootcamp

These courses can provide a comprehensive introduction to the principles of animation, and they can help you develop the skills you need to create your own animations.

What are Some Career Options for Animators?

There are many different career options for animators. Some of the most popular career options include:

• Character animator
• 3D animator
• Motion graphics animator
• Visual effects animator
• Game animator

Animators can work in a variety of industries, including film, television, video games, and advertising.

What are Some Tips for Learning the Principles of Animation?

Here are a few tips for learning the principles of animation:

• Start by studying the basics. Learn about the different principles of animation and how they work. This will give you a solid foundation for creating your own animations.
• Practice, practice, practice. The best way to learn the principles of animation is to practice. Try animating different objects and characters, and experiment with different techniques.
• Get feedback from others. Ask friends, family, or other animators to critique your work. This will help you identify areas where you can improve.
Have fun! Animation is a lot of work, but it can also be a lot of fun. Enjoy the process of learning and creating.

Can I Learn the Principles of Animation Online?

Yes, you can learn the principles of animation online. There are many different online courses and resources available that can teach you the basics of animation. However, it is important to note that online learning is not a substitute for hands-on experience. If you want to become a professional animator, you will need to practice and apply the principles of animation in a real-world setting.