Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Walt Disney understood the value of analyzing animation and the importance
of this analysis in creating believable acting and performances that were at
the heart of the films he made. He would gather together with his animators
to view the results of their efforts in what became known as
sweatbox
sessions,
to make observations and comments and call for amendments and
changes.
Practice is essential if you are to make the required improvements to your
work, so making animation on a regular basis will allow you to progress,
develop your skills, and gain an understanding of your craft. However, I would
argue that the real learning process takes place
after
the animation has been
completed. Through analyzing your work and reflecting on your efforts,
applying methodical objectivity, a deeper understanding can be gained.
Undertaking such analysis of your own work on your own will yield results,
but better yet is to review and analyze work in a group situation.
It becomes difficult at times to recognize the quality in the animation we
ourselves have made. Often it's easier for others to recognize these qualities,
both good and bad, in the animation we produce. People who have had no
involvement in making the work won't be as close to the animation and can
often see through some of the baggage that you inevitably develop during
the act of making the work. You might find it difficult to see past issues you
encountered while making the sequence and your value judgments that have
evolved as you made the work. It is easy to be dismissive of our own efforts.
It is also easy to fool ourselves into thinking that our aims have been achieved
with a particular piece of animation. It might be that the thing you are trying
to achieve with your animation is very evident to you, but it might not be
so apparent to others, particularly those who get to see the work only once.
Never forget: It is for people who get to see the results of your efforts only
once
that we make our work in the first place.
Analyzing work in groups will provide a deeper insight into the true nature
of the completed work. For this you will need mutual support. That does
not mean that it should become a cozy, mutually backslapping group.
Supporting others means telling them exactly how you see it. You need to
have confidence in each other and be able to rely on each other's judgment.
Criticism should be qualified with full commentary and feedback. Simply
stating that something is “cool” or, on the other hand, “rubbish” is less than
helpful. It is important to state
why
something is good and
why
something
is poor. This should be followed by suggestions for improvements. Of
course, these comments can be made only if those analyzing the work fully
understand the animator's aims and what the animator is trying to achieve. By
fully articulating your thoughts on the detail of the animation, the individual
or group not only helps the animator make an assessment of his work,
but those making the comments are also developing their own powers of
observation and analysis. This is what is called a win/win situation. In fully
analyzing your work, you will be in a better position to reflect on the results
and make the necessary amendments and improvements. Remember, it is
