2 min read•july 25, 2024
2D animation brings static images to life through movement and storytelling. Core principles like , , and form the foundation, while techniques like and create fluid motion. These elements work together to craft engaging visual narratives.
adds depth and personality to animated characters, making them more believable and relatable. The , developed by Disney animators, provide a comprehensive toolkit for creating compelling and dynamic animated sequences that captivate audiences.
Timing controls speed and rhythm of movement affects perceived weight and personality measured in frames per second (fps)
Spacing distributes in-between frames creates motion determines smoothness and character of movement affects perception of acceleration and deceleration
Anticipation prepares viewers for main action adds realism and weight to animated actions (wind-up before a punch)
Keyframes establish main poses in animation sequence set timing and major changes in movement usually created by senior animators
In-betweens fill gaps between keyframes create fluid motion determine smoothness and style traditionally drawn by assistant animators
Keyframes define start and end points in-betweens create illusion of motion number of in-betweens affects speed and fluidity (walking cycle)
Exaggerates deformation simulates weight and flexibility maintains volume while changing shape
Applications include bouncing ball effect facial expressions and dialogue character movement and impact reactions
Conveys weight more squash and stretch for lighter objects less for heavier objects (rubber ball vs bowling ball)
Enhances flexibility exaggerated deformations for organic forms subtle changes for rigid objects
Creates and dynamism adds life and energy helps avoid stiff movements (cartoon character jumping)
Squash and stretch simulates weight and flexibility (bouncing ball)
Anticipation prepares audience for upcoming action (winding up for a pitch)
Staging presents ideas clearly through positioning and camera angles
and contrasting approaches to creating sequences
and continues movement after main action (hair swinging)
and mimics natural acceleration and deceleration
follows curved paths for more natural movement (pendulum swing)
adds supplementary movements to support main action (whistling while walking)
Timing controls speed and rhythm of movements
amplifies actions for greater impact and appeal (cartoon takes)
maintains consistent volume and perspective
Appeal creates charismatic and engaging characters or actions (Disney princesses)