1
2 Preface: Animation is a powerful tool used to communicate complex ideas and engage audiences in a wide range of industries. The use of animation in computer software development has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it allows developers to visualize their code in action and identify potential issues before they become major problems. However, creating complex animations in software can be a daunting task, and without proper techniques, it can be difficult to trace errors and optimize performance. This module is designed to introduce readers to the fundamental principles of Tracing Techniques in Computer Software Animation. In this module, we will explore the various methods used to trace animation code and identify performance bottlenecks. We will examine the differences between static and dynamic tracing techniques and how they can be used to analyze different aspects of animation performance. We will also look at common performance issues in animation, such as frame rate drops and memory leaks, and how they can be identified and addressed. The goal of this module is to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the tracing techniques used in computer software animation. By the end of this module, readers should be able to analyze their animation code using a variety of tracing techniques and optimize their animations for maximum performance. Whether you are a seasoned developer or just starting out, this module will provide you with the tools and techniques you need to create efficient and visually stunning animations in your software projects. TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface …………………………………………………………………………………2 Table of Contents ……………………………………………………………………. 2-3 Lesson 1: (Cut out Animation)…………………………………….…4-12
3 Pre-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Learning Activity 1 ……………………………………………………………. Learning Activity 2 ……………………………………………………………. Post-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Self-evaluation or Performance Task ………………………………………. Lesson 2: (Rotoscoping)………………………………… 13-22 Pre-assessment ………………………………………………………………. Learning Activity 1 ……………………………………………………………. Learning Activity 2 ……………………………………………………………. Post-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Self-evaluation or Performance Task ………………………………………. Lesson 3: (Rotoscope Animation)………………………………………………………….. 24-30 Pre-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Learning Activity 1 ……………………………………………………………. Learning Activity 2 ……………………………………………………………. Post-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Self-evaluation or Performance Task ………………………………………. Lesson 4: (Advance Tracing Animation)……………………………………………31-41 Pre-assessment ………………………………………………………………. Learning Activity 1 ……………………………………………………………. Learning Activity 2 ……………………………………………………………. Post-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Self-evaluation or Performance Task ………………………………………. Lesson 5: (Character Tracing in Flash)……………………………………………….. 42-57 Pre-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Learning Activity 1 ……………………………………………………………. Learning Activity 2 ……………………………………………………………. Post-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Self-evaluation or Performance Task ………………………………………. Lesson 5: (Cleaning Animation in Toon Boom)…...………………………………….. 58-72 Pre-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Learning Activity 1 ……………………………………………………………. Learning Activity 2 ……………………………………………………………. Post-assessment ……………………………………………………………… Self-evaluation or Performance Task ………………………………………. Final Requirement …………………………………………………………………….. 73-75 References …………………………………………………………………………….. 47 Index ……………………………………………………………………………………. 48
4 Lesson 1. Cut-Out Animation
5 Lesson 1: Cut out Animation Learning objectives: 1. Understand the principles of cut-out animation: Students will learn the basic principles of cut-out animation, including frame sequencing, movement, and storytelling. 2. Develop creativity and storytelling skills: Students will have the opportunity to unleash their creativity by designing and animating cut-out shapes or objects, and they will develop their storytelling abilities by creating a narrative through their animations.
6 3. Gain proficiency in planning and organizing: Students will learn to plan and organize their animation sequences by creating storyboards or sketches, considering the order and movement of cut-out shapes, and developing a coherent narrative structure. 4. Enhance fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination: Students will improve their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination through the precise cutting and manipulation of cut-out shapes or objects. 5. Explore the concept of motion and movement: Students will explore the concept of motion by observing and creating incremental changes in the positions of cut-out shapes or objects to simulate movement and convey actions. 6. Develop visual communication skills: Students will develop visual communication skills by effectively conveying ideas, actions, and emotions through their cut-out animations. 7. Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities: Students will encounter challenges during the animation process and will need to think critically and problem-solve to overcome them, such as finding creative solutions to smooth out movements or enhance the visual impact of their animations. 8. Cultivate patience and perseverance: Students will learn the importance of patience and perseverance in the process of creating cut-out animations, as it requires attention to detail and multiple iterations to achieve desired results. 9. Promote collaboration and teamwork (if done in a group setting): Students working in groups will have the opportunity to collaborate, share ideas, and delegate tasks to create a cohesive cut-out animation project. 10. Develop presentation skills: Students will have the opportunity to present their cut-out animations, explaining their creative choices and the techniques used, and receiving feedback from their peers or instructors. These learning objectives aim to provide a well-rounded learning experience in cut-out animation, encompassing technical skills, creative expression, problem-solving, and collaboration History of Cut out Animation Cutout animation, also known as collage animation or silhouette animation, is a form of stop-motion animation in which characters and objects are created from flat materials, such as paper, cardboard, fabric, or even photographs. These cutout elements are then arranged and manipulated to create the illusion of movement. The history of cutout animation can be traced back to the early days of animation. One of the earliest examples of cutout animation can be found in the work of Émile Cohl, a French animator who is often
7 considered one of the pioneers of the medium. In his 1908 film "Fantasmagorie," Cohl used cutout figures made from black paper to create a surreal and imaginative animated sequence. Another important figure in the history of cutout animation is Lotte Reiniger. Reiniger, a German animator, is renowned for her silhouette animation technique. In the 1920s, she developed a style of animation using cutout figures made from thin sheets of lead, which she called "silhouette films." Her most famous work is "The Adventures of Prince Achmed" (1926), a feature-length film created entirely through silhouette animation. In the following decades, cutout animation continued to be used by various animators and studios around the world. It was particularly popular for educational and children's programming due to its relatively simple production process and cost-effectiveness. Notable examples include the work of Norman McLaren, a Scottish-Canadian animator known for his experimental films, and Terry Gilliam, a British animator and member of the comedy troupe Monty Python, who incorporated cutout animation into the group's sketches and films. With the advent of digital technology, cutout animation underwent a significant transformation. Traditional methods of cutout animation involved physically manipulating the cutout elements frame by frame, but digital software made it possible to streamline the process. Software like Adobe After Effects and Toon Boom Harmony allows animators to create and manipulate cutout elements digitally, providing greater flexibility and efficiency in the production process. Cutout animation remains a popular and versatile technique today, used in a variety of contexts ranging from short films and music videos to television series and advertisements. It continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies and artistic styles, showcasing the enduring appeal and creativity of this unique form of animation. Types of Cut out Animation There are several types of cutout animation techniques that have been used throughout the history of animation. Here are some of the notable types: 1. Silhouette Animation: Silhouette animation, pioneered by Lotte Reiniger, involves creating characters and objects as flat, cutout figures. These figures are usually made from thin sheets of material, such as paper or lead, and are placed against a backlit screen. The characters' movements are captured by manipulating the cutout figures frame by frame.
8 2. Collage Animation: Collage animation involves creating characters and scenes by combining different materials, such as paper, fabric, photographs, or found objects. The cutout elements are layered and arranged to form the desired images, and then manipulated to create the illusion of movement. 3. Puppet Animation: Puppet animation involves creating articulated cutout characters with movable joints. The joints are typically connected with fasteners, such as brads or split pins, allowing the animator to pose and animate the characters by moving the joints. This technique provides greater control and fluidity in character movement. 4. Replacement Animation: Replacement animation, also known as substitution animation, involves creating a series of cutout elements representing different stages of a character's movement or transformation. Each element is substituted or replaced in successive frames, giving the illusion of smooth movement or metamorphosis.
9 5. Digital Cutout Animation: With the advent of digital technology, cutout animation techniques have been adapted to digital platforms. Digital cutout animation involves creating cutout characters and elements digitally, using software like Adobe After Effects, Toon Boom Harmony, or Moho. The digital tools allow for easier manipulation, layering, and effects, providing increased efficiency and creative possibilities. These are just a few examples of the types of cutout animation techniques that have been used over the years. Animators often combine and experiment with different techniques, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with cutout animation. The specific approach taken depends on the animator's artistic vision, resources, and the desired visual style for the animation. Pre-Assessment : Certainly! Here's a pre-assessment activity to gauge your understanding and knowledge of cut-out animation: 1. Define cut-out animation in your own words, describing its main characteristics and techniques. 2. List at least three materials commonly used for creating cut-out animation.
10 3. Explain the advantages of using cut-out animation in terms of efficiency and flexibility. 4. Discuss the limitations or challenges that animators may encounter when working with cut-out animation. 5. Describe how digital tools and software can be integrated with cut-out animation techniques to enhance the creative process. 6. Provide examples of well-known films, TV shows, or commercials that have utilized cut-out animation. 7. Imagine you are tasked with creating a short cut-out animation. Describe the steps you would take from conceptualization to final production, highlighting the key considerations and processes involved. Activity 1 Watch https://youtu.be/xgG5tS8agqE And based on what you observed on the video described the steps and processed of how the cut out animation was made. Activity 2 Make a short cut out animation: Pick one type of cut out animation (at least 5 secs) Here's a rubric to assess the cut-out animation activity: Criteria Excellent (3 points) Good (2 points) Fail (1 point ) Creativity Demonstrates exceptional creativity and originality in the choice of shape/object, design, and animation. Shows creativity in the choice of shape/object, design, and animation. Displays some creativity in the choice of shape/object, design, and animation. Craftmanship The cut-out shapes/objects are neatly and accurately cut with precise outlines. The overall presentation is clean and professional. The cut-out shapes/objects are mostly well-cut with reasonably straight outlines. The overall presentation is tidy. The cut-out shapes/objects show some rough edges and uneven outlines. The overall presentation is somewhat messy.
11 Animation The animation demonstrates smooth and seamless movement. Transitions between frames are wellexecuted. The animation shows reasonably smooth movement, with somewhat fluid transitions between frames. The animation has some jerky movements and transitions between frames are not very smooth. Impact The animation effectively captures attention, evokes emotions, or conveys a clear message. It leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. The animation captures attention to some extent and conveys a message or emotion to the viewer. The animation has limited impact and may not effectively convey a clear message or evoke strong emotions. Presentation The overall presentation of the cut-out animation is well-organized, visually appealing, and enhances the viewer's understanding and enjoyment. The presentation of the cut-out animation is organized and visually pleasing, contributing to the viewer's understanding and enjoyment. The presentation of the cut-out animation is somewhat organized and visually acceptable, but it may not fully enhance the viewer's understanding and enjoyment. Perfomance Task: Group yourselves into five and make a cut out animation of History and Timeline of Cutout Animation (same rubrics of Activity 2) References: https://kolajmagazine.com/content/institute/collage-in-motion-fellowship/ https://www.intofilm.org/films/filmlist/92
12 Lesson 2. Rotoscoping Lesson 2: Rotoscoping Learning objectives for a rotoscoping: 1. Understand the concept and history of rotoscoping. 2. Learn the technical aspects of rotoscoping, including tools and techniques. 3. Develop observation and attention to detail. 4. Gain proficiency in digital drawing and animation software. 5. Enhance artistic and drawing skills. 6. Apply the principles of animation to create believable motion.
13 7. Develop problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. 8. Understand the ethical and legal considerations in rotoscoping. 9. Foster creativity and personal expression. 10. Cultivate time management and organization skills. History and Timeline of Rotoscoping Early Development: - 1915: Inventor and animator Max Fleischer develops the rotoscope, a device used to trace over live-action footage frame by frame. - 1917: Max Fleischer's brother, Dave Fleischer, applies the rotoscope to create realistic movements in animation, pioneering the technique. Golden Age of Animation: - 1920s-1930s: Rotoscoping becomes widely used in animation studios, including the Walt Disney Studio, Fleischer Studios, and others, to achieve more lifelike character movements.
14 Expanding Applications: - 1970s: Experimental filmmakers, such as Ralph Bakshi, employ rotoscoping to create unique visual styles in films like "Wizards" (1977) and "The Lord of the Rings" (1978). - 1980s: Music videos, such as A-ha's "Take On Me" (1985), popularize rotoscoping as a visual effect to blend live-action and animation. Modern Era and Digital Advancements: - 1990s-2000s: With the advent of digital technology, rotoscoping transitions from traditional hand-drawn techniques to computer-based software, enabling more precise control and efficiency. - 2006: Richard Linklater's film "A Scanner Darkly" showcases a distinctive rotoscoped style, drawing renewed attention to the technique in mainstream cinema. Contemporary Applications:
15 - Present: Rotoscoping continues to be utilized in various forms of media, including feature films, commercials, music videos, video games, and digital art, for stylistic purposes or to enhance realism. Throughout its history, rotoscoping has evolved from its early development as a mechanical process to a digital technique embraced by animators, filmmakers, and artists. Its impact can be seen in classic animated films, experimental projects, and contemporary multimedia productions, demonstrating its enduring significance in the world of animation and visual storytelling. Key theories and principles of rotoscoping: 1. Frame-by-Frame Tracing: Rotoscoping involves manually tracing each frame of live-action footage to create a corresponding animated frame. This meticulous process ensures that the animation accurately captures the movements and details of the original footage. 2. Reference Footage: Rotoscoping artists typically use live-action reference footage as a guide for their animation. The reference footage helps them understand the motion and timing of the actions they need to replicate, resulting in more realistic and believable animations. 3. Understanding Movement: A thorough understanding of human anatomy, physics, and motion principles is crucial for successful rotoscoping. Artists need to analyze how different body parts move and interact with each other to create smooth and natural animations. 4. Consistency: Maintaining consistency throughout the animation is essential. Artists must ensure that the proportions, movements, and style of the traced frames match each other and the original footage. This consistency creates a coherent and visually pleasing result. 5. Artistic Interpretation: While rotoscoping aims to replicate live-action footage accurately, there is room for artistic interpretation. Rotoscoping artists can add their own style and embellishments, enhancing the animation and infusing it with their creativity.
16 6. Time and Patience: Rotoscoping is a time-consuming process that requires patience and attention to detail. Tracing each frame can be labor-intensive, but the meticulous effort pays off in creating smooth and lifelike animations. These principles and theories form the foundation of rotoscoping, allowing artists to transform live-action footage into captivating animated sequences. Types of Rotoscoping 1. Traditional Rotoscoping: This is the original and most straightforward form of rotoscoping. It involves manually tracing each frame of live-action footage onto a transparent medium, such as celluloid or paper, to create the animated frames. 2. Digital Rotoscoping: With advancements in technology, rotoscoping has transitioned to digital platforms. Digital rotoscoping involves using software tools, such as Adobe After Effects or Autodesk Flame, to trace over the frames digitally. This method offers more flexibility and efficiency compared to traditional rotoscoping. 3. Matte Painting Rotoscoping: This technique combines rotoscoping with matte painting. Rotoscoping is used to isolate certain elements, such as characters or objects, from live-action footage, and then these elements are composited into a painted background, creating a seamless blend between live action and painted elements. 4. Motion Capture Rotoscoping: Motion capture involves recording the movements of real actors and applying them to virtual characters. Rotoscoping can be used in conjunction with motion capture data to refine and enhance the animation, ensuring more accurate and realistic movements. 5. Creative Rotoscoping: While the primary purpose of rotoscoping is often to replicate live-action footage faithfully, it can also be used creatively. Artists may take a more interpretive approach, incorporating artistic styles, exaggerations, or distortions to create unique and visually striking animations. These are just a few examples of the different types of rotoscoping techniques employed in animation and filmmaking. Each technique offers its own advantages and can be used based on the specific requirements and artistic vision of the project. Tools and materials used in different forms of rotoscoping: 1. Traditional Rotoscoping: - Lightbox: A backlit surface used to view and trace individual frames. - Transparent Medium: Such as celluloid sheets or paper, onto which frames are traced. - Pencil or Pen: Used to trace the frames onto the transparent medium. - Erasers: For making corrections and adjustments. 2. Digital Rotoscoping:
17 - Computer: A computer with suitable hardware and software for digital rotoscoping, such as Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Flame, or The Foundry's Nuke. - Graphics Tablet: A pen tablet or stylus-based input device for precise tracing and drawing on the computer. - Scanners or Cameras: Used to import the original live-action footage into the digital environment. 3. Matte Painting Rotoscoping: - Painting Materials: If you are involved in creating matte paintings, you may need traditional painting materials like brushes, canvas, and paints. - Image Editing Software: Tools like Adobe Photoshop may be required for creating or editing painted backgrounds. 4. Motion Capture Rotoscoping: - Motion Capture System: A motion capture setup comprising cameras, markers, and software for capturing and recording the movements of actors. - Motion Capture Software: Software for processing and refining the captured motion data. 5. Creative Rotoscoping: - Various Artistic Tools: Depending on your desired style, you may need a wide range of artistic tools, including brushes, paints, markers, or digital painting software. It's important to note that the specific tools and materials used in rotoscoping can vary based on individual preferences, project requirements, and available technology. As technology advances, the tools and techniques used in rotoscoping continue to evolve, incorporating both traditional and digital methods. Pre-Assessment: 1. Define rotoscoping 2. Give the five types of rotoscoping 3. What are the tools and materials needed in rotoscoping Activity 1 Activity: Quick Rotoscoping Challenge Objective: To introduce participants to the concept of rotoscoping and provide a fun and engaging activity that can be completed in a short amount of time. Materials Needed:
18 1. Paper 2. Pencils or pens 3. Optional: Mobile devices or tablets with a drawing app (such as Procreate or Adobe Illustrator) Instructions: 1. Briefly explain the concept of rotoscoping and its application in animation and filmmaking. Highlight that rotoscoping involves tracing over live-action footage to create animated sequences. 2. Divide the participants into pairs or small groups. 3. Provide each group with a short video clip (around 5-10 seconds) that showcases a simple action or movement. You can use pre-selected clips or ask participants to find a suitable clip using their mobile devices. 4. Instruct each group to watch the video clip and choose a single frame to rotoscope. 5. Give the groups a specific time limit (e.g., 10 minutes) to complete their rotoscoping task. 6. Distribute paper and pencils or pens to each group. If available, participants can use mobile devices or tablets with drawing apps instead. 7. Start the timer and let the groups begin tracing the selected frame. Emphasize the importance of capturing the main subject's outlines and key details. 8. Encourage creativity by allowing participants to add their own artistic interpretations or embellishments to the rotoscoped frame. 9. Once the time limit is up, have each group present their rotoscoped frame to the rest of the participants. They can briefly explain their creative choices and any challenges they encountered during the activity. 10. Engage the participants in a short discussion about their experiences with rotoscoping, the differences they noticed between the original frame and the rotoscoped version, and the importance of attention to detail. 11. Conclude the activity by highlighting the creativity and skill required in rotoscoping, and how it adds a unique touch to animation and filmmaking. Activity 2 Pick one type of rotoscoping and perform it atleast 5 secs of video rotoscoping
19 Criteria Excellent (4pts) Good (3pts) Fair (2pts) Poor (1pt) Accuracy of rotoscoping The rotoscope animation demonstrates exceptional accuracy and precision in capturing the movements and details of the source footage. The rotoscope animation generally maintains accurate proportions and movements, but some minor inconsistencies may be present. The rotoscope animation shows effort in capturing the basic movements, but there are noticeable discrepancies in proportions and details. The rotoscope animation lacks accuracy and fails to capture the movements and details of the source footage effectively. Smoothness of Animation The animation is exceptionally smooth, with fluid and seamless transitions between frames. The animation is mostly smooth, with few noticeable jerky movements or abrupt transitions. The animation demonstrates some smoothness, but occasional jerky movements and abrupt transitions are evident. The animation lacks smoothness and contains numerous jerky movements and abrupt transitions. Consistency of the Style The rotoscope animation maintains a consistent and coherent style throughout, accurately reflecting the intended artistic vision. The rotoscope animation generally maintains a consistent style, but some minor inconsistencies may be present. The rotoscope animation generally maintains a consistent style, but some minor inconsistencies may be present. The rotoscope animation lacks consistency in style, resulting in disjointed and incongruous visuals. Integration with Background The rotoscope animation seamlessly integrates with the background elements, creating a cohesive visual composition. The rotoscope animation generally integrates well with the background, but some minor inconsistencies may be present. The rotoscope animation shows effort in integrating with the background, but there are noticeable discrepancies in certain areas. The rotoscope animation lacks integration with the background, resulting in a disjointed visual composition. Overall Creativity The rotoscope animation demonstrates exceptional creativity, incorporating innovative elements and unique interpretations of the source footage. The rotoscope animation showcases creative choices that enhance the visual experience, although some aspects may be relatively conventional. The rotoscope animation shows effort in presenting creative elements, but there is a lack of originality or significant innovation. The rotoscope animation lacks creativity and relies heavily on conventional approaches and techniques. Performance Task Make a group of 5 and do rotoscoping animation and used the video of you dancing minimum of 20 secs *Same rubrics with no. 2 activity* References: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rotoscoping https://karaspartyideas.com/2017/11/most-embarrassing-party-moments-fountain-volcano.html
20 Lesson 3. Rotoscope Animation Lesson 3 Rotoscope Animation Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the principles and techniques of rotoscope animation. 2. Develop strong drawing skills for accurate tracing and capturing movement. 3. Apply animation principles to create visually engaging and believable animations.
21 4. Master industry-standard software tools for rotoscope animation. 5. Collaborate effectively and contribute creatively within a production pipeline. Software Applications in Making Rotoscope Animation 1. Adobe After Effects: After Effects is a widely used software that offers powerful tools for rotoscoping, compositing, and creating visual effects. It provides features like keyframe animation, layer management, and tracking capabilities. 2. Toon Boom Harmony: Toon Boom Harmony is a professional animation software that supports rotoscoping and offers a wide range of features specifically designed for traditional and digital animation. It provides tools for drawing, painting, and compositing, along with advanced rigging and effects options. 3. Autodesk Maya: Maya is a 3D animation software that is often utilized in rotoscope animation workflows. It offers a comprehensive set of tools for modeling, rigging, animation, and rendering, allowing artists to integrate rotoscoped elements seamlessly into 3D environments. 4. TVPaint Animation: TVPaint Animation is a specialized 2D animation software that offers robust drawing and painting tools. It provides features for frame-by-frame animation, including onion skinning and brush customization, making it suitable for rotoscope animation workflows. 5. Blender: Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation suite that can be used for rotoscoping purposes as well. It offers a range of animation tools, including keyframe animation, masking, and compositing capabilities.
22 These software applications provide artists with the necessary tools and functionalities to create highquality rotoscope animations, allowing for efficient tracing, manipulation, and integration of live-action footage with animated elements. Rotoscoping can be performed in various VFX software applications, including: 1. Autodesk Flame: High-end software with advanced rotoscoping and masking tools. 2. Nuke: Node-based compositing software with robust rotoscope capabilities. 3. Blackmagic Fusion: Node-based compositing software with integrated rotoscoping features. 4. Silhouette: Dedicated rotoscoping and compositing software with precise tools. 5. Mocha Pro: Planar tracking and roto software specialized in accurate rotoscope workflows. . Steps and Procedures in Rotoscope Animation: 1. Select and Prepare Footage: Choose the live-action footage that you want to rotoscope. Ensure that the footage is of good quality and has clear visibility of the subject or elements to be traced. Import the footage into your chosen animation software.
23 2. Set Up the Project: Create a new project in your animation software and set the project settings according to your desired output specifications, such as frame rate and resolution. 3. Create a Rotoscope Layer: Set up a new layer in your animation software, typically above the footage layer, where you will perform the rotoscoping. This layer will contain the traced animation frames. 4. Trace the Keyframes: Go through the footage frame by frame and trace over the desired elements or subjects using the drawing tools provided by your animation software. Begin with keyframes, capturing the primary poses or positions that define the movement. 5. Add Inbetween Frames: Once you have traced the keyframes, add inbetween frames to create smooth animation transitions. These frames help to capture the movement and fluidity between the main poses. Use the animation software's tools to interpolate the motion and adjust the timing as needed. 6. Refine and Polish: Review the animation sequence and make any necessary adjustments to ensure accuracy, smoothness, and continuity. Pay attention to details, such as refining the lines, adjusting timing, and ensuring consistent proportions. 7. Apply Animation Principles: Apply animation principles, such as easing in and out, spacing, and anticipation, to enhance the movement and make the animation more dynamic and appealing. Use techniques like squash and stretch or exaggeration to add personality to the animated elements. 8. Composite and Render: Once the animation is complete, composite the rotoscoped layer with the original footage or other background elements using the compositing tools in your animation software. Adjust the transparency, layer order, and other effects to integrate the rotoscope animation seamlessly. 9. Finalize and Export: Review the composite to ensure all elements are properly integrated. Make any necessary adjustments or corrections. Once satisfied, export the final rotoscope animation in the desired format, keeping in mind the intended distribution platform or medium. By following these steps and procedures, you can create a rotoscope animation that blends live-action footage with hand-drawn elements, resulting in a visually engaging and cohesive animation. Pre-Assessment Pre-Assessment: Rotoscope Animation Please answer the following questions to assess your knowledge and understanding of rotoscope animation: 1. What is rotoscope animation? a) A technique to create 3D animations
24 b) An animation style inspired by rotoscopes c) Tracing over live action - footage to create animated sequences d) An animation method using stop-motion techniques 2. Which software is commonly used for rotoscope animation? a) Adobe Photoshop b) Autodesk Maya c) Procreate d) Final Cut Pro 3. What is the purpose of creating inbetween frames in rotoscope animation? a) To add special effects to the animation b) To create smooth transitions between keyframes c) To adjust the color and lighting of the animation d) To import additional footage into the animation sequence 4. What are some animation principles commonly applied in rotoscope animation? a) Timing, spacing, and exaggeration b) Shading, texturing, and rigging c) Scripting, storyboarding, and voiceover d) Composition, camera angles, and lighting 5. How is rotoscope animation different from traditional frame-by-frame animation? a) Rotoscope animation does not require drawing skills. b) Rotoscope animation involves tracing over live-action footage. c) Traditional animation uses computer-generated imagery (CGI). d) Traditional animation does not involve compositing or layering. Please note that this pre-assessment is intended to gauge your existing knowledge and understanding of rotoscope animation. Activity 1 Pick any software mention in the lesson discussion and try it out and make a draft rotoscope animation 5 secs only.
25 Rubrics: Criteria Excellent (4pts) Good (3pts) Fair (2pts) Poor (1pt) Accuracy of rotoscoping The rotoscope animation demonstrates exceptional accuracy and precision in capturing the movements and details of the source footage. The rotoscope animation generally maintains accurate proportions and movements, but some minor inconsistencies may be present. The rotoscope animation shows effort in capturing the basic movements, but there are noticeable discrepancies in proportions and details. The rotoscope animation lacks accuracy and fails to capture the movements and details of the source footage effectively. Smoothness of Animation The animation is exceptionally smooth, with fluid and seamless transitions between frames. The animation is mostly smooth, with few noticeable jerky movements or abrupt transitions. The animation demonstrates some smoothness, but occasional jerky movements and abrupt transitions are evident. The animation lacks smoothness and contains numerous jerky movements and abrupt transitions. Consistency of the Style The rotoscope animation maintains a consistent and coherent style throughout, accurately reflecting the intended artistic vision. The rotoscope animation generally maintains a consistent style, but some minor inconsistencies may be present. The rotoscope animation generally maintains a consistent style, but some minor inconsistencies may be present. The rotoscope animation lacks consistency in style, resulting in disjointed and incongruous visuals. Integration with Background The rotoscope animation seamlessly integrates with the background elements, creating a cohesive visual composition. The rotoscope animation generally integrates well with the background, but some minor inconsistencies may be present. The rotoscope animation shows effort in integrating with the background, but there are noticeable discrepancies in certain areas. The rotoscope animation lacks integration with the background, resulting in a disjointed visual composition. Overall Creativity The rotoscope animation demonstrates exceptional creativity, incorporating innovative elements and unique interpretations of the source footage. The rotoscope animation showcases creative choices that enhance the visual experience, although some aspects may be relatively conventional. The rotoscope animation shows effort in presenting creative elements, but there is a lack of originality or significant innovation. The rotoscope animation lacks creativity and relies heavily on conventional approaches and techniques. Activity 2 Use a VFX software to make a draft rotoscope animation 5 secs only *Same rubrics with act. 1* Performance task Group yourselves into 5 and make a rotoscope animation with minimum of 1 min. duration.
26 *Same rubrics with act. 1* References: https://www.techjockey.com/blog/best-free-vfx-software/amp https://inspirationtuts.com/toon-boom-harmony-vs-opentoonz-which-is-better/amp/
27 Lesson 4. Advanced Tracing Animation
28 Lesson 4 Advance Tracing Animation Learning objectives for a tracing animation activity: 1. Understand the concept and purpose of tracing animation. 2. Learn the techniques and tools used in tracing animation. 3. Develop observation skills to accurately trace and replicate existing artwork or animation. 4. Gain proficiency in using tracing techniques to recreate and mimic various art styles. 5. Enhance attention to detail and precision in tracing lines, shapes, and proportions. 6. Apply the principles of animation to create smooth and fluid movements through tracing. 7. Explore the creative possibilities of tracing animation to add personal style and interpretation. 8. Develop problem-solving skills to overcome challenges in tracing complex or intricate artwork. 9. Cultivate patience and perseverance in the process of tracing animation. 10. Reflect on the ethical considerations of tracing animation, such as giving credit to the original artist or seeking permission when necessary. Advanced tracing animation refers to the process of converting a series of static images or frames into a smooth and fluid animation by tracing and manipulating the elements within the frames. It involves techniques such as rotoscoping, motion tracking, and keyframe animation to achieve realistic and dynamic movement. Terminologies, principles, and theories related to advanced tracing animation 1. Rotoscoping: Rotoscoping is a technique where animators trace over live-action footage frame by frame to create realistic animation. It is often used to capture complex movements and achieve a lifelike motion. 2. Motion Tracking: Motion tracking is the process of analyzing the movement of objects within a video or image sequence. It involves tracking specific points or markers in the footage to determine their motion and apply it to animated elements.
29 3. Keyframes: Keyframes are the pivotal frames in an animation that define important poses or positions. They serve as the starting and ending points for smooth animation transitions. The animator creates keyframes, and the software interpolates the in-between frames automatically. 4. Interpolation: Interpolation is the process of generating intermediate frames between two keyframes. It helps to create smooth and fluid animation by automatically calculating the movement and transformation of objects over time. 5. Timing and Spacing: Timing and spacing are crucial principles in animation. Timing refers to the speed and rhythm of movements, while spacing refers to the placement of objects in relation to each other over time. Proper timing and spacing give a sense of weight, impact, and natural motion to the animated elements. 6. Squash and Stretch: Squash and stretch is a fundamental principle of animation that adds a sense of flexibility and elasticity to objects. It involves exaggerating the shape and form of objects during movement, emphasizing the impact or the stretch and compression of the object. 7. Ease-in and Ease-out: Ease-in and ease-out refer to the gradual acceleration or deceleration of movement at the beginning and end of an action. It helps to create more realistic and natural-looking animation by simulating the way objects start and stop in the real world. 8. Follow-through and Overlapping Action: Follow-through and overlapping action refer to the secondary movements that occur after the main action has stopped. When an object changes direction or comes to a stop, certain parts of it continue moving due to their own inertia. Incorporating followthrough and overlapping action adds fluidity and realism to the animation. 9. Arcs: Arcs refer to the curved paths followed by objects during their movement. Most natural movements are not linear but follow curved trajectories. By animating objects along arcs, the animation appears more organic and lifelike. 10. Anticipation: Anticipation is the principle of setting up an action by preparing the audience for what is about to happen. It involves creating a movement or pose that precedes the main action, building tension and giving a sense of expectation. These are some of the key terminologies, principles, and theories involved in advanced tracing animation. Mastering these concepts allows animators to create visually appealing and realistic animations with a high level of detail and fluidity. There are several tracing animation software options available that cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some popular types of tracing animation software:
30 1. Adobe After Effects: After Effects is a widely used software for motion graphics and visual effects, including tracing animation. It provides robust tools for rotoscoping, motion tracking, and keyframe animation, allowing artists to create detailed and professional animations. 2. Toon Boom Harmony: Toon Boom Harmony is a powerful 2D animation software that offers advanced tracing capabilities. It provides features like rotoscoping, shape recognition, and bitmap and vector tracing tools, enabling artists to create smooth and detailed animations. 3. TVPaint Animation: TVPaint Animation is a professional 2D animation software known for its traditional animation tools and tracing capabilities. It offers features like onion skinning, rotoscoping, and a wide range of brush and pencil tools, providing artists with precise control over their traced animations. 4. Autodesk Maya: Maya is a popular 3D animation software, but it also offers tools for 2D tracing animation. Artists can utilize Maya's rotoscoping and keyframe animation features to create intricate and realistic 2D animations by tracing over reference footage or drawings. 5. Anime Studio/Clip Studio Paint: Anime Studio, now known as Clip Studio Paint, is a versatile software that specializes in 2D animation. It provides a range of features for tracing animation, including rotoscoping, bone rigging, and frame-by-frame animation tools, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced animators. 6. Synfig Studio: Synfig Studio is a free and open-source 2D animation software that supports tracing animation. It offers vector-based animation tools, including shape recognition and automatic tweening, allowing artists to create smooth and scalable animations. 7. OpenToonz: OpenToonz is another free and open-source software for 2D animation, which includes tracing capabilities. It offers features like rotoscoping, keyframe animation, and compositing tools, enabling artists to create detailed and complex traced animations. These are just a few examples of tracing animation software available in the market. Each software has its own unique features, workflow, and learning curve, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your specific requirements and skill level.
31 Steps to create a tracing animation 1. Develop a concept and create a storyboard. 2. Gather references, such as live-action footage or sketches. 3. Import assets and set up layers in the animation software. 4. Trace and animate the desired elements frame by frame. 5. Use keyframe animation and interpolation to create smooth movement. 6. Add secondary animations, effects, and backgrounds. 7. Review, edit, and refine the animation. 8. Include sound effects, music, and dialogue. 9. Render the final animation in the desired format. Pre-assessment test for advanced tracing animation: 1. What is advanced tracing animation? a) A technique for creating animations by tracing over existing footage or artwork. b) A method of animating using advanced algorithms for motion tracking. c) A process of generating animations with intricate patterns and shapes. d) A style of animation that focuses on realistic shading and lighting effects. 2. Which software tools are commonly used for advanced tracing animation? a) Adobe Photoshop b) Autodesk Maya c) Blender d) Adobe After Effects 3. What is one of the advantages of advanced tracing animation? a) Quick and easy animation creation. b) Limited need for artistic skills.
32 c) High level of realism and detail. d) Simplified copyright and legal considerations. 4. True or False: Advanced tracing animation is a time-consuming process. a) True b) False 5. Why is it important to consider copyright and legal considerations in advanced tracing animation? a) It can lead to higher production costs. b) It ensures the final animation is original and not a copy. c) It prevents the use of advanced animation techniques. d) It allows for creative flexibility in animation production. 6. What skills are essential for animators working with advanced tracing animation? a) Proficiency in motion graphics design. b) Ability to generate original artwork. c) Technical expertise in animation principles and software tools. d) Mastery of 3D modeling and texturing techniques. 7. Which of the following statements is true about creative flexibility in advanced tracing animation? a) Animators have limited options for experimentation. b) Tracing animations restrict the artist's creativity. c) Animators can reinterpret and enhance the original material. d) The technique only works well for live-action sequences. 8. What should animators consider when embarking on advanced tracing animation projects? a) The availability of free stock footage. b) The complexity and intricacies involved. c) The need for basic animation techniques only. d) The exclusion of copyright permissions. Answers: 1. a) A technique for creating animations by tracing over existing footage or artwork. 2. b) Autodesk Maya and d) Adobe After Effects.
33 3. c) High level of realism and detail. 4. a) True. 5. b) It ensures the final animation is original and not a copy. 6. c) Technical expertise in animation principles and software tools. 7. c) Animators can reinterpret and enhance the original material. 8. b) The complexity and intricacies involved. Please note that this pre-assessment test is designed to gauge your understanding of advanced tracing animation. Activity 1. Choose a short animated clip: Find a short animated video or clip that you enjoy or find interesting. It can be a scene from a movie, a TV show, or even a short animation available online. Make sure it's something that can be easily traced. 2. Prepare your materials: Gather the necessary materials for tracing. You'll need tracing paper or a lightbox, a pencil, and the original clip you've chosen. 3. Set up your workspace: Find a well-lit area where you can comfortably work. If you have a lightbox, place the original clip underneath it. If you're using tracing paper, secure it on top of the original clip or use a well-lit window as a light source. 4. Start tracing: Begin by carefully tracing the key frames or main poses from the animation. Focus on capturing the basic shapes, lines, and movements. Don't worry too much about details at this stage— keep it simple and focus on the overall composition. 5. Refine your tracing: Once you've traced the key frames, go back and add more details and clean up the lines. Pay attention to any additional elements, such as facial expressions, secondary movements, or background details. Take your time to ensure accuracy and smoothness in your traced animation. 6. Experiment with color (optional): If you want to take it a step further, you can add color to your traced animation. Use colored pencils, markers, or digital tools to bring your traced frames to life. This step is optional and depends on your preference and the time available. 7. Review your work: Take a moment to step back and review your traced animation. Compare it to the original clip and see how closely you were able to replicate the movements and details. Celebrate your accomplishment and appreciate the effort you put into the activity. Your performance task will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
34 1. Accuracy: The extent to which your tracings faithfully represent the original animated sequence. 2. Attention to detail: The level of precision and meticulousness in capturing the key poses, movements, expressions, and other essential elements of the animation. 3. Artistic skills: The overall quality of your tracings, including line work, proportions, and composition. 4. Presentation: The clarity and effectiveness of your presentation, including organization, explanations, and your ability to engage and respond to questions. Performance task Task: Tracing Animation Showcase Objective: To demonstrate your ability to accurately trace and recreate an animated sequence, showcasing your attention to detail, understanding of movement, and artistic skills. Instructions: 1. Preparation: a. Select an animated sequence: Choose a short animated clip (approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute long) from a movie, TV show, or an online animation. Ensure that it is suitable for tracing and aligned with any guidelines or restrictions provided by your instructor. b. Gather materials: Collect the necessary materials for the task, including tracing paper or a lightbox, pencils, erasers, and any other coloring materials if you plan to add color to your tracing. 2. Tracing Process: a. Analyze the sequence: Carefully watch the chosen animated clip multiple times, paying attention to key poses, movements, expressions, and any other significant details. b. Trace the animation: Using tracing paper or a lightbox, start tracing the key frames or poses from the animated sequence. Focus on capturing the fundamental shapes, lines, and movements that define the characters and their actions. Aim for accuracy and consistency in your tracings.
35 c. Refine the tracings: Once you have traced the key frames, go back and add finer details, clean up the lines, and ensure that your tracings accurately represent the original animation. Pay attention to proportions, facial expressions, and any additional elements present in the scene. 3. Optional: Coloring (if time permits): If you have enough time and wish to add color to your tracings, carefully apply colors using colored pencils, markers, or digital tools. Take care to match the colors as closely as possible to the original animation. 4. Presentation: a. Assemble your tracings: Collect all your traced frames and arrange them in the correct order, creating a visual sequence that accurately represents the original animation. b. Showcase your work: Prepare a presentation of your traced animation. You can do this by creating a physical display, scanning your tracings and arranging them digitally, or even creating a short video compilation of your tracings. c. Reflect and discuss: During your presentation, explain the process you followed, discuss any challenges you encountered, and highlight specific aspects of the original animation that you focused on or found particularly interesting. d. Q&A session: Allow your audience to ask questions about your tracing process, techniques used, or any other related topics. References: https://learn.toonboom.com/modules/introduction-to-animation/topic/cleaning-animation https://classpert.com/blog/all-about-rotoscoping
36 Lesson 5. Character Tracing in Flash Lesson 5 Character Tracing in Flash Learning Objectives for Character Tracing in Flash:
37 1. Familiarize yourself with the Flash interface and tools. 2. Master the Pen tool for precise and smooth line creation. 3. Develop observation skills to accurately trace characters or reference images. 4. Understand line weight and variation to add depth and emphasis. 5. Apply knowledge of anatomy and proportions in character tracing. 6. Explore color and fill techniques for shading and highlighting. 7. Establish an efficient workflow for character tracing in Flash. 8. Add personal style and expressiveness to your traced characters. 9. Seek feedback and collaborate with others to improve your skills. 10. Build a portfolio to showcase your character tracing work in Flash. Terminologies, Theories, and Principles of Character Tracing in Flash: 1. Keyframes: Keyframes are frames in the Flash timeline where a significant change occurs in an animation. They serve as reference points for defining the starting and ending states of an animated element. 2. Tweening: Tweening is the process of automatically generating intermediate frames between two keyframes. It allows for smooth and fluid animation by automatically calculating the position, scale, rotation, and other properties of an object between keyframes. 3. Pen Tool: The Pen tool in Flash is a vector drawing tool used for creating precise and customizable shapes and lines. It enables artists to trace characters with accuracy and control over curves and anchor points. 4. Anatomy and Proportions: Understanding human anatomy and proportions is essential for character tracing. It involves knowledge of skeletal structure, muscle placement, and body proportions to ensure accurate and realistic representations of characters.
38 5. Line Weight: Line weight refers to the thickness or thinness of a line. In character tracing, varying line weights can add depth, dimension, and emphasis to different parts of the character. Thicker lines can be used for outlines or areas of importance, while thinner lines can be used for finer details. 6. Reference Images: Reference images are visual sources used as guides for character tracing. They provide a basis for accurately capturing the shapes, proportions, and details of the character being traced. 7. Color and Fill Techniques: Flash allows artists to apply colors and fills to traced characters. Color and fill techniques involve shading, highlighting, and adding texture to enhance the visual appearance of the characters. It includes the use of gradients, brushes, and blending modes. 8. Workflow: Workflow refers to the systematic process and organization of tasks during character tracing. A welldefined workflow helps maintain efficiency and consistency throughout the tracing process. It includes steps such as creating rough sketches, defining key shapes, applying fills, and refining details. 9. Layers: Layers in Flash allow artists to organize and separate different elements of the animation. When character tracing, using layers helps manage the various parts of the character, such as body, facial features, and clothing, making it easier to edit and animate each component separately. 10. Feedback and Critique: Seeking feedback and critique from peers, instructors, or experienced artists is crucial for improvement. Feedback helps identify areas for refinement, offers new perspectives, and encourages growth in character tracing skills. 11. Practice and Iteration: Character tracing in Flash requires consistent practice and iteration. By repeatedly tracing characters, artists can refine their techniques, improve accuracy, and develop their unique style. 12. Personal Expression: Character tracing in Flash allows artists to infuse their personal style and expression into the traced characters. This involves adding unique gestures, poses, and facial expressions that convey the character's personality or emotion. 13. Animation Principles: Principles such as timing, spacing, anticipation, and follow-through are fundamental to creating convincing character animations in Flash. Understanding these principles helps bring life and realism to the traced characters' movements. 14. Storytelling: Character tracing in Flash often serves a narrative or storytelling purpose. Consideration of the character's role, emotions, and actions within the context of a story is important to effectively communicate the intended message or narrative. 15. Copyright and Legal Considerations: When tracing characters in Flash, it is essential to respect copyright laws and intellectual property rights. Artists should obtain proper permissions or use original artwork to avoid legal issues and ensure ethical practices.
39 Steps and Procedures for Character Tracing in Flash: 1. Import Reference Image: - Import the reference image of the character into Flash. - Place the image on a separate layer as a guide for tracing. 2. Create New Layer: - Create a new layer above the reference image layer to begin tracing. 3. Select the Pen Tool: - Select the Pen tool from the toolbar. 4. Start Tracing: - Start tracing the character by clicking and dragging the Pen tool to create anchor points and lines. - Use the Pen tool to follow the contours and shapes of the character, creating smooth and accurate lines. 5. Adjust Curves and Anchor Points: - Use the Direct Selection tool to adjust the curves and anchor points of the traced lines, ensuring precision and accuracy. 6. Fill Colors and Apply Line Weight: - Once the outline is traced, use the Fill tool to apply colors to different parts of the character. - Experiment with line weight to add depth and emphasis to the character's features. 7. Organize Layers: - Create separate layers for different parts of the character, such as body, facial features, and clothing.
40 - Keep the layers organized to easily manage and edit individual components of the character. 8. Add Details and Textures: - Add finer details and textures to enhance the character's appearance. - Use various tools, such as brushes or gradients, to add shading, highlights, and textures. 9. Create Keyframes and Tweening: - Set keyframes on the timeline to define the starting and ending positions of the character. - Use tweening to automatically generate intermediate frames and create smooth animations. 10. Refine and Iterate: - Continuously refine and adjust the traced character as needed. - Seek feedback and critique to improve accuracy and quality. - Iterate on the tracing process to enhance the character's overall look and style. 11. Preview and Test Animation: - Preview the animation by playing it back in Flash. - Test the character's movement and make any necessary adjustments to the animation. 12. Save and Export: - Save the Flash project to retain the editable file for future modifications. - Export the final animation as a video file or in a format suitable for your intended use. Remember, these steps and procedures provide a general guideline for character tracing in Flash. The specific workflow may vary based on the complexity of the character and individual preferences. Tips and Techniques for Tracing Animation in Flash: 1. Use Keyboard Shortcuts: - Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts in Flash to speed up your workflow. - Learn commonly used shortcuts such as Ctrl/Cmd+C (Copy), Ctrl/Cmd+V (Paste), Ctrl/Cmd+Z (Undo), and Ctrl/Cmd+D (Duplicate). - Utilize shortcuts for tools like the Pen tool (P), Selection tool (V), and Direct Selection tool (A) for quicker access. 2. Zoom In and Out: - Use the zoom options in Flash (Ctrl/Cmd+Plus or Minus) to adjust your view for precise tracing. - Zoom in to work on finer details and zoom out to get a broader perspective of the overall character.
41 3. Grid and Ruler: - Enable the grid and ruler in Flash to assist with aligning elements and maintaining proportions. - Adjust the grid settings (Ctrl/Cmd+K) to match your tracing needs. 4. Snap to Grid and Snap to Point: - Enable the "Snap to Grid" and "Snap to Point" options to ensure accurate placement of anchor points and lines. - This feature helps maintain alignment and precision while tracing. 5. Pen Tool Techniques: - Practice using different Pen tool techniques, such as creating straight lines (click and release), curves (click and drag), and corner points (Alt/Opt+click). - Utilize the Convert Anchor Point tool (Shift+C) to adjust anchor points and convert curves to corners. 6. Adjusting Curves and Handles: - Use the Direct Selection tool (A) to manipulate anchor points and adjust the curvature of lines. - Modify the direction and length of curve handles to control the shape and smoothness of traced lines. 7. Layer Locking and Hiding: - Lock or hide layers that you are not currently working on to avoid accidentally modifying them. - This helps maintain focus and prevents unwanted changes to previously traced elements. 8. Brush and Stroke Styles: - Experiment with different brush styles and stroke options in Flash to add variety and expressiveness to your traced lines. - Adjust stroke thickness, end caps, and corner styles to achieve the desired visual effect. 9. Use Stencil Mode: - Enable Stencil mode for the reference image layer to make it translucent and easier to trace over. - This allows you to see both the reference image and your traced lines simultaneously. 10. Practice Smooth Lines: - Aim for smooth and fluid lines by using fewer anchor points and minimizing unnecessary jitters or wobbles. - Use the Smooth tool (Alt/Opt) to refine traced lines and make them appear more polished. 11. Save Frequent Actions as Custom Commands: - If you find yourself performing certain actions repeatedly, consider saving them as custom commands using Flash's command editor.
42 - This can save time and streamline your workflow for commonly used tracing techniques. Certainly! Here's a pre-assessment test for character tracing in Flash: 1. What is the purpose of character tracing in Flash? a) To create original characters from scratch. b) To reproduce and recreate existing characters. c) To add special effects to animated characters. d) To import and edit character animations. 2. Which tool in Flash is commonly used for creating precise lines and shapes during character tracing? a) Brush Tool b) Pencil Tool c) Pen Tool d) Eraser Tool 3. True or False: Tracing in Flash involves replicating the exact details and proportions of a reference image. a) True b) False 4. What is the importance of layers in character tracing? a) To organize different parts of the character. b) To apply shading and highlights to the traced character. c) To create animation frames for the character. d) To adjust the transparency of the reference image. 5. Which command in Flash is used to automatically generate intermediate frames between keyframes? a) Break Apart b) Duplicate c) Tween d) Merge Shapes 6. What is one technique that can help create smooth and fluid lines during tracing in Flash? a) Using a high opacity brush for all lines. b) Adding excessive anchor points for accuracy. c) Utilizing the Smooth tool to refine lines.
43 d) Using the Free Transform tool for reshaping lines. 7. What is the purpose of applying varying line weights in character tracing? a) To add depth and dimension to the character. b) To change the color of the traced lines. c) To remove unwanted anchor points. d) To merge different layers of the traced character. 8. True or False: Tracing in Flash requires a strong understanding of human anatomy. a) True b) False 9. Which feature in Flash can be enabled to assist with accurate placement and alignment of anchor points and lines? a) Grid and Ruler b) Brush Styles c) Layer Effects d) Transformations 10. Why is it important to save frequent actions as custom commands in Flash? a) To speed up the character tracing process. b) To change the reference image for tracing. c) To export the traced character as a video file. d) To adjust the background color of the Flash project. Activity Activity: Quick Character Tracing in Flash Objective: To practice character tracing skills in Flash within a short timeframe. Materials Needed: - Computer with Flash software installed - Reference image(s) of a simple character (can be a cartoon character or any other simple illustration) Instructions: 1. Preparation:
44 - Select a reference image of a simple character that you would like to trace in Flash. Ensure the image is easily visible on your computer screen. 2. Setting Up Flash: - Launch Flash software on your computer. - Create a new document with the desired dimensions for your tracing activity. 3. Import Reference Image: - In Flash, import the reference image onto the canvas. - Position and scale the image to a suitable size for tracing. 4. Create a New Layer: - Create a new layer above the reference image layer to begin tracing. 5. Tracing: - Select the Pen tool from the toolbar. - Start tracing the character by clicking and dragging the Pen tool to create anchor points and lines. - Follow the contours and shapes of the character, creating smooth and accurate lines. - Aim to capture the main features and shapes of the character. 6. Adjust Curves and Anchor Points: - Use the Direct Selection tool (A) to adjust the curves and anchor points of the traced lines for better accuracy and smoothness. 7. Apply Basic Colors (Optional): - If time permits, choose a few basic colors and use the Fill tool to apply them to different parts of the traced character. - Don't worry about shading or details at this stage; focus on capturing the main shapes with color. 8. Preview and Evaluate: - Play back the animation to preview the traced character's appearance and movement. - Evaluate the accuracy and overall look of the traced character. 9. Save and Share: - Save your traced character project in Flash format for future reference or modifications. - If desired, take a screenshot or export a still image of your traced character to share with others. Criteria for Evaluating Character Tracing Activity in Flash:
45 1. Accuracy (30 points): - Did the traced character closely resemble the reference image? - Were the proportions and shapes accurately captured? - Were the lines clean and smooth without major distortions or errors? 2. Attention to Detail (20 points): - Did the tracing include important details and distinctive features of the character? - Were any prominent elements or accessories of the character accurately depicted? 3. Line Quality (15 points): - Were the lines consistent in thickness and smoothness? - Did the lines exhibit control and precision in tracing? 4. Composition (10 points): - Did the traced character fit well within the canvas or frame? - Was the character centered or positioned appropriately within the composition? 5. Use of Colors (10 points): - If colors were applied, were they used effectively to enhance the character's appearance? - Did the colors match or complement the original character design? 6. Time Management (10 points): - Was the activity completed within the designated time frame? - Did the artist effectively manage their time to achieve the desired level of completion? 7. Overall Impression (5 points): - Did the traced character have visual appeal and aesthetic appeal? - Did the artist demonstrate creativity and personal style in the traced character? 8. Presentation (5 points): - Was the final traced character presented in a clear and organized manner? - Were any screenshots or exports of the traced character shared appropriately? Performance Task: Character Tracing Project in Flash
46 Objective: To demonstrate proficiency in character tracing skills in Flash by completing a detailed and polished character tracing project within a specified time frame (approximately 1 day). Task Description: 1. Character Selection: - Choose a character (can be a cartoon character, original character, or any other subject) that you would like to trace in Flash. - Ensure the character has enough complexity to showcase your tracing skills and offers room for creativity. 2. Reference Gathering: - Collect reference images of the chosen character from different angles, including front, side, and back views. - Gather additional reference materials, such as concept art or official illustrations, to understand the character's details and style. 3. Planning and Sketching: - Create a rough sketch of the character, indicating the main shapes, proportions, and pose. - Plan the composition and consider any additional elements or background elements to incorporate. 4. Setting Up Flash: - Launch Flash software on your computer. - Create a new document with suitable dimensions for your tracing project. 5. Tracing Process: - Import the reference images onto separate layers in Flash. - Begin tracing the character by using the Pen tool and other relevant tools to create clean and precise lines. - Pay attention to capturing the character's unique features, details, and any necessary accessories or clothing. 6. Refining and Detailing: - Use the Direct Selection tool to adjust curves, anchor points, and overall line quality for a polished appearance. - Add finer details, textures, and shading to enhance the character's appearance and depth. 7. Color Application and Styling: - Apply colors to different parts of the traced character using the Fill tool or other coloring techniques. - Ensure the colors are accurate to the original character or apply a personal creative style if desired. 8. Background and Composition:
47 - Create a suitable background or environment that complements the character. - Ensure the character is well-positioned and visually balanced within the composition. 9. Animation (Optional): - If desired, add simple animation to the traced character, such as a blinking eye or a subtle movement. - Utilize Flash's animation tools and techniques to enhance the character's liveliness. 10. Review and Refinement: - Step back and review your work for any areas that may need improvement or adjustments. - Refine the traced character, make necessary modifications, and address any potential errors or inconsistencies. 11. Finalization and Presentation: - Save your traced character project in Flash format. - Export the final project as a video file or in a format suitable for presentation or sharing. Evaluation Criteria: Your performance in this task will be evaluated based on the following criteria: 1. Accuracy and Precision (30%): - How closely does the traced character resemble the reference images in terms of proportions, features, and overall likeness? 2. Attention to Detail (20%): - Are the intricate details and distinctive characteristics of the character accurately captured and represented? 3. Line Quality and Cleanliness (15%): - Are the lines smooth, clean, and consistent throughout the tracing project? - Is there a high level of control and precision demonstrated in the line work? 4. Composition and Visual Appeal (15%): - Is the character well-positioned within the composition? - Does the overall artwork demonstrate an appealing visual presentation? 5. Color Application and Styling (10%): - Are the colors accurately applied to the character, matching the original or desired style? - Is there creativity and attention to color choices and blending?
48 6. Background and Environment (10%): - Does the background or environment complement the character and enhance the overall composition? References: https://www.google.com/search?q=Steps+and+procedure+Character+Tracing+in+Flash%3A&tbm=isch&v ed=2ahUKEwjcutC8x9T_AhVSKrcAHX8qDgYQ2- cCegQIABAD&oq=Steps+and+procedure+Character+Tracing+in+Flash%3A&gs_lcp=ChJtb2JpbGUtZ3d zLXdpei1pbWcQAzoFCAAQogQ6BAgeEAo6BAghEApQmQlYojBg_zJoAXAAeACAAcsBiAGaFpIBBjM uMTguMZgBAKABAcABAQ&sclient=mobile-gws-wizimg&ei=IQeTZJymM9LU3LUP_9S4MA&bih=668&biw=360&client=ms-android-opporvo2&prmd=ivbn#imgrc=C8fURCfftKFN_M
49 Lesson 6 Cleaning Animation in ToonBoom
50 Lesson 6 Cleaning Animation in Toonboom Learning Objectives: Cleaning Animation in Toon Boom 1. Understand animation cleaning principles and techniques. 2. Master the tools and features of Toon Boom Harmony for cleaning. 3. Develop skills in line tracing, removing rough lines, and smoothing transitions. 4. Learn effective line art techniques, including line weight variation and clean intersections. 5. Apply principles of timing, spacing, and fluid motion for clean animation. 6. Explore colorization and shading techniques for polished results. 7. Develop attention to detail and error spotting abilities. 8. Optimize workflow using shortcuts and batch processes in Toon Boom. 9. Apply industry best practices for compatibility and integration. 10. Create a portfolio-worthy cleaned-up animation sequence. Terminologies, Theories, and Principles of Cleaning Animation in Toon Boom: 1. Line Tracing: The process of creating clean, smooth lines by tracing over rough or sketchy lines in animation frames. 2. Rough Lines: Initial sketches or rough drawings that serve as a starting point for cleaning animation.