Stop Motion Animation: Imparting Spirit from Stillness
By Kelly Richardson
kelly.richardson@animationschoolreview.com
Animation School Review Columnist
Since the 1950s, stop motion animation has been a part of our popular culture. First appearing in Disney’s 1959 classic Noah’s Ark, stop motion animation has developed into a digital art form. Here’s an overview of the animation technique that uses still frames to create life on screen.
The basic idea behind stop motion animation is to make still objects look like they are in motion by using clever splicing techniques. Stop motion animation is actually a broad term that includes a variety of smaller animation disciplines: clay animation, direct manipulation animation, and object animation to name a few. Stop motion animators have created commercials, movies, and television shows using this creative technique. From the Pillsbury Doughboy to the Hamburger Helper glove, stop motion is one of the most commonly used animation processes.
Stop Motion Animation Techniques
Animators use the following equipment to create stop motion:
- Digital Camera. A digital camera is the most simple and cost-effective way to create stop motion. Store your photos on a removable data device, load them onto your computer, and work them with Stop Motion Pro software.
- Digital Video. Although more expensive and time-consuming, you can use a digital video camera to create stop motion animation. Sony has a line of digital cameras that have a stop motion feature, making still shots easy to acquire.
- VHS Video. If you only have a VHS video recorder, you can still complete the process by shooting bursts of each puppet pose and then editing them with software. Don’t expect the same clarity as you might from the digital video.
Stop Motion: Animation in Action
You’ve probably seen examples of stop motion animation in the movies or on television and not even known it. Directors, editors, and producers are finding new ways to utilize the technique in some of the most recent blockbuster programs.
- Movies. The Nightmare Before Christmas, all of the Wallace & Gromit films, King Kong, James and the Giant Peach, and Corpse Bride.
- Television. The South Park series, the children’s television show Gumby, and Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim cartoon Chicken Run.
If you’re interested in learning the art of stop motion animation, you’ll be relieved to know that it’s still very much in demand. Perhaps you can make your own contribution to the technique, keeping it alive.
Sources
Stop Motion Works
The Art of Stop Motion Animation
The Museum of Unnatural History
About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.
Posted on March 29, 2007 at 12:07 PM
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