2D Animation Tools to Replace Pen and Paper
by Kelly Richardson
Animation School Review Columnist
The process of traditional, hand-drawn 2D animation is both time-consuming and expensive. But with the latest software applications, 2D animation may soon eliminate archaic drafting utensils.
Anyone familiar with the 2D animation process knows it’s not as smooth as it could be. A long, laborious storyboard stage leads to voice recording. Once sound and image have been synched, the animatics are refined. Design and timing, layout, and final animation complete the process. But with the latest 2D animation software, you can eliminate several stages of the process, arriving at a filmable strip faster than ever before.
2D Animation: Version 2
Here’s how 2D animation software streamlines the process:
- Straight to Digital. Using a graphics tablet or similar device, animation professionals can draw directly into the computer, skipping the easel entirely.
- Color Fill. Instead of coloring the characters by hand, a computerized paint feature fills blank regions in seconds. By hand, the coloring stage can take hours.
- What’s Eliminated? Stages of the process like photographing line-tests (filming voice-actors’ mouths in order to accurately animate character lip movements) and scanning will be a thing of the past, as you can draw directly onto a multi-plane background.
Finding 2D Animation Training
For accredited and convenient 2D animation, there are two main educational options.
- On Campus. A more traditional training ground for those who appreciate a classroom setting and hands-on training.
- Online. With classes on demand, learn where and when it’s convenient for you. You can even attend class while continuing to work full-time.
- If you’re just starting out in the animation industry, the opportunity to master the latest 2D technologies can give you a competitive edge over older animators clinging to the pen-and-ink methods of yesteryear. So get started today, the start of your education could be just clicks away.
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 May 6, 2007 at 4:53 PM
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