Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Capturing and Analyzing Action
To undertake any serious study we must consider the importance of research
and the issue of identifying and gaining access to the relevant source material
that will underpin this research. Using reference material from a range of
sources can be of great benefit to artists and designers of all kinds. Animators
who want to analyze action can gain a great deal from such material. Unlike
animation's pioneers, who had little access to the kind of research material
that makes action analysis possible, we are in the very fortunate position of
having a wealth of material on which to draw.
Despite the fact that animation as an art form is still very much in its infancy
at only around a hundred years old, there are plenty of books, videos, and
online examples that provide a huge and very valuable reference library.
However, this wealth of readily available material often falls short of the exact
requirements. The material may not fit the bill exactly or not come close
enough to provide a useful substitute for first-hand research, in which case it
may be preferable for animators to undertake their own research and create
material
exactly
suited to the task at hand. Clearly, some animators never
bother much with action analysis let alone gathering or creating their own
reference material for the study of motion and dynamics. Perhaps they don't
see the value in studying animation in such an analytical manner.
