The following pages succinctly describe the various possibilities and technologies.

CONCEPT, SCRIPT EN STORYBOARD

The first step in the animation process is the concept phase. For more in-depth information on this topic, please go to the section concept and storyboard.

DESIGN, LAYOUT EN BACKGROUNDS

Alle elementen die in de film voorkomen moeten worden ontworpen. Niet alleen de characters maar ook alle props en decors. Ook worden voor alle scenes layouts gemaakt, die vervolgens als basis voor de uiteindelijke achtergronden dienen.

EXPOSURESHEET EN SOUNDSPOTTING

Each second of animation often involves hundreds of drawings, divided over a number of layers, which make up the final image. The exposure sheet is required to keep track of this large body of drawings. Every drawing is registered at its proper level and the exact bit of sound for each and every frame is allocated, eliminating confusion when making the final composite and shooting.

KEY ANIMATION

A key animator draws the key poses of a character or object. The drawings between these key drawings, known as the inbetweens, are made by an assistant.

The first pencil test of a film consists almost exclusively of key drawings.

CLEANUP EN INBETWEENING

After this initial pencil test, all the inbetweens are drawn and cleanups (carefully traced copies) are made for every drawing. These are then shot for a second pencil test.

DIGITAL INK & PAINT

The animation is then inked and painted. In most cases, this is currently an entirely digital process. This has distinct advantages; it saves time and allows for last minute creative options.

COMPOSITING EN POSTPRODUKTIE

Each level of animation is then mastered to a single layer video or film. An average animation production can quickly entail over 50 animation and effect levels. At this stage, sound and visual effects are added. Moreover, the animation can be matched with 3-D animation or live action footage. After doing the final sound relay, the film is ready for its final print or broadcast tape.