How does computer animation work?

Animation has improved significantly over the years, from the old two-dimensional cartoons to the jaw-dropping and often believable three-dimensional animation that can now be seen in many movies.

So how does computer animation work? Simply put, 3D animation is created using a computer to “bring” still images to life. In other words, by quickly running a sequence of images, a computer can pop up to make static objects move. This article will explain the basics of how computer animation works.

How does computer animation work?

There are 2 types of computer animation. The first is called computer-aided animation and the second type is computer-generated animation. There are differences between the two, the most significant being that computer-aided animation creates two-dimensional images, commonly known as 2D. Computer generated animation creates three-dimensional or 3D objects.

The other big difference is that in computer-aided creation, the artist will draw the original 2D objects on paper or with the help of a computer. In computer-generated graphics, the computer does all the work, since it is not possible to create this type of dimension with pencil and paper.

In traditional animation, an artist first draws his objects, scenes, and characters in a sequence. He then places the most important elements of the sequence in an outline. These are known as keyframes. Each keyframe represents a significant moment in the final sequence.

Originally, junior animators were called upon to draw the parts of the sequence between these keyframes, thus creating a continuous sequence. The creation of these cells, or frames, that fill in the gaps between the keyframes is called interpolation.

With computer-aided animation, interpolation is done by the computer using advanced mathematical algorithms to create a fluid animated sequence. In computer-generated animation, the entire process is done by the computer, from the initial drawing to the final animation sequence.

What kind of software do you need to create 3D animations?

Today’s computer animators use sophisticated software programs to generate 3D images and graphics. Some of the most popular 3D animation software programs are Maya, 3D Max, and Poser. These programs are used by both amateur entertainers and professional artists. Unfortunately, the cost of these programs is completely out of the reach of the average person. Many of them cost $ 5000 or more! Fortunately, there are few cheaper options, including free software, available for aspiring animators to learn.

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