character animation

What is this module about?

Character animation is one of the most rewarding specialisations in the 3D industry. In this module, we go through the fundamentals in manual character animation, facial and body expressions, basic interactions with the environment, props, and other characters. We also learn to use the non-linear animation workflow. Although we’ll take a quick glimpse into motion capture and procedural animation, this module focuses on manual animation only.

What are the requirements for this module?

A decent Windows 10 Pro-based PC with a strong video card, or a Mac with a strong AMD card, at least 16 Mb RAM, and a HD or UHD monitor. You will also need a Maya  license and a copy of Storyboarder.

Whom is it recommended for?

Animators, but also riggers and generalists. There is no further study in our masterclass in this direction, but it is far from being the end of the line in the industry. The knowledge acquired here will be a decent foundation for your character animation career.

Software we use

thematics

Storyboarding

Creating a storyboard based on the script to be followed using Storyboarder.

The Walk Cycle

Creating Warrior’s walk cycle. Introducing the Time Editor.

The Run Cycle

Creating Warrior’s run cycle. Understanding how speed and weight are related.

The Idle State

Posing and animating the idle animations for Warrior and Mechaspider.

Timing and Pacing

Positioning the camera and the characters for each take, following the storyboard. Creating primary animations for both characters.

Interaction

A word (or two) about procedural animation techniques.

With the primary animations in place, creating the secondary animations is the next step. Animating the interactions between the characters, emotional expressions through body language, and focus by subtle camera movement and composition.

Expression

Animating the faces and the eyes. Creating an emotional connection between the characters. Using props. Refine the storytelling. Finalise camera motion. Animate depth of field and set up motion blur.

Optimisation

Deleting unnecessary keys, and tidying up the scene and the outliner. Understanding motion capture data preparation.

Presentation

Present the animation in Viewport 2.0 and create a video with Playblast.

 

Project “odd couple”

Create the basic animations for Warrior and Mechaspider.

Block out the primary and secondary animations in the sequence, pace the scene, and animate the camera movement.

Create detailed animations for facial expressions, subtle hand (and foot) movements, add props wherever needed, and optimise the scene.




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The module ideally takes 12 lessons to finish.

A lesson is 90 minutes long.

It is recommended to take 1 lesson a week.

 

 

FOR INDIVIDUALS:

(paid in 3 installments)

£ 276 ×3 (£ 828)

FOR duos:

(paid in 3 installments)

£ 138 ×3 (£ 414) /student