Create characters, props and environments for animation
Overview
This Standard is about creating the individual elements that will be needed for animation, which could be characters, props or environments. You are expected to be able to analyse what is needed so as to produce elements that are fit for purpose. Being prepared to test and evaluate your work and respond positively to feedback from others is really important, to make sure that the elements are what is required. This standard is for you if you create characters, propos or environments for animation
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
determine the requirements that will affect your work by analysing
briefs, scripts, visual references and technical and production
parameters
- create characters, props or environments that conform to the
design brief
apply colours and textures that meet the design brief
test that characters, props or environments appear as they should
from all required camera positions and angles
- produce scratch/slap/wipe test composites that confirm continuity
of shots and sequences
- create prototype animations to confirm the integrity of any
required movements that will be applied to your elements in the
finished animation
- evaluate the quality of each element on its own, in relation to
other elements and the context in which it will be used against
production requirements
- respond to feedback about the elements you create in a positive
way, making refinements as needed
- supply characters, props or environments in formats that are
appropriate for use by others
- remain flexible and adaptable to new directions, creative
requirements and technical developments on an ongoing basis
- prepare and store characters, props or environments in a safe
way to enable the next stage of production to run without delay
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
the creative style, overall concept and level of detail required for
the production
- technical parameters for the project, such as the timelines set out
in build schedule and milestone deliverables or the use of a
particular software program
the entire production process and your role within it
the intended use and context of the elements you create
the principles and techniques of animation, such as hi and low
resolution modelling, meshing, colouring, matte making, character
and prop rigging and weighting, skeletal animation, morphing,
skinning, sculpting
the physics of motion and resistance
the effects of camera positions, angles, lens types and lighting in
relation to objects and environments
- surface properties of materials, different types of textures, lighting
and other effects that can be applied to 3D objects and
environments
the theory and importance of colour, lighting and cinematography
techniques for creating mattes, such as for backgrounds,
shadows, travel or hold-outs
the importance of continuity
how to exploit the potential of industry-standard animation
software for elements
- how to exploit the potential of suitable drawing and modelling
materials, techniques and processes for stop motion elements
how to evaluate if set up of elements is fit for purpose
the value of seeking early feedback
the importance of maintaining data security and following your
organisations guidelines and file structures