Animation Corner_Issue 1_Posing

on May 03 in Animation Corner, Featured Content by rachel

I admire the art of animation. It takes desire, skill and complete love for this craft. As a Production Manager I tend to sometimes overlook the subtleties of a characters movement and focus on the getting things done by the DUE DATE! But sometimes you have to stop and appreciate the artistry. That is why I’m making it my mission to get back into what I’ve love which is animating.

It makes me sad to think I haven’t really animated in over four years. Yeah, I keyed an object moving from one side to another. But is that really animation? I don’t think so. The true art of animation is understanding and implementing the principles of animation.

So I guess it’s time to start from scratch.

What’s in a Pose?

What makes a character interesting? In order to tell a story with your character you must be able to show a good “Pose”. Your pose has to convey emotion and draw in the viewer. Keith Lango mentions, “ Stillness is where the story is told.” Adding weight to your poses makes the character feel alive.

Notice in “Pose A” the pose feels stiff.

You’re not quite sure what to think.

There is no weight to the body.

The shoulders are up in an unnatural position.

Now in “Pose B” the character appears to have substance.

The toe is angled out.

Notice curvature to the spine and neck.

It’s not 100%, but at least you’re starting to get somewhere.

Another approach to posing your characters is by thumbnailing your action. Drawing out your line of action is the fastest and simplest way to diagnose your problems. Draw out 3 balls on your line of action. Each ball represents the head, chest and hips. See how they fall upon the curve. Does it look and feel natural? If not then you have a problem.

I can’t think of a better example than Tom and Jerry. Here is an example from Preston Blair’s Book .

Notice the weight and how the lines are accentuated. Very believable!Remember, posing is the start to great animation. Without it you just have moving objects that are not telling a story:)

Animation Corner_Issue 1_Posing