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A Brief History of Animation 🐿 🎥 From Flip Books to Digital Dreams Animation, the art of bringing inanimate objects and characters to life through a series of images, has captivated audiences for centuries. Its evolution from simple flip books to complex computer-generated imagery (CGI) has been nothing short of remarkable. The Early Days: Flip Books and Persistence of Vision The concept of animation dates back to the ancient Egyptians, who used shadow puppets to create simple stories. However, the modern era of animation began in the 19th century with the invention of the flip book. These small booklets contained a series of images that, when flipped rapidly, created the illusion of movement. The scientific principle behind flip books, known as persistence of vision, explains how the human eye retains an image for a brief period after it disappears. This allows the brain to perceive a series of still images as continuous motion. The Pioneers of Animation: From Georges Méliès to Walt Disney The early 20th century saw the emergence of pioneers who revolutionized the art of animation. Georges Méliès, a French filmmaker, experimented with special effects and trick photography in his films, creating fantastical worlds and groundbreaking techniques. Walt Disney, however, is perhaps the most iconic name in animation history. His studio, founded in 1923, produced some of the most beloved animated films of all time, including "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937) and "Pinocchio" (1940). Disney's innovations in character design, storytelling, and animation techniques set the standard for the industry. The Rise of Computer Animation: A New Era The advent of computers ushered in a new era of animation. Computer-generated imagery (CGI) allowed for more complex and realistic animations, opening up new possibilities for filmmakers. "Toy Story" (1995), the first fully computer-animated feature film, marked a significant milestone in the history of animation. CGI has become increasingly sophisticated, enabling animators to create stunning visuals and realistic characters. From the fantastical worlds of "Avatar" to the intricate details of "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse," CGI has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in animation. The Future of Animation: A Limitless Frontier As technology continues to advance, the future of animation looks brighter than ever. Virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence are all poised to revolutionize the way we experience animated content. From interactive storytelling to immersive experiences, the possibilities are endless. As animation continues to evolve, it remains a powerful medium for storytelling, entertainment, and education. Follow us to learn more ... #animation #animationhistory #cartoon #anime #animationstudio #animator #stopmotion #cgi #2danimation #3danimation

Second impressions of Vision Pro: Part 2/2 MapKit Animation Challenge On Vision Pro I was seeing that AnnieMap’s camera and marker animations exhibited unusual jitteriness, appearing smooth until, oddly and unexpectedly, jumping back in time momentarily. Throwing my library of different animation synchronization strategies at Vision Pro failed miserably since each showed varying levels of awful animation quality. This led me to attempt the time-honored process of mining and excavating a vast array of deep rabbit holes. One variant of the jitter nearly matched my frame rate, hinting at pair of out-of-phase animations. Given Vision Pro's two displays, I speculated that VisionOS might be running two separate MapKit Views (and hence two separate map animations). Could this be the case? Why, you ask, would visionOS render two separate MapKit Views? Perhaps the powers that be think one for each eye in your head is needed? This can’t be, since MapKit renders the map into a 2D plane, the image data for left and right are related by a homography (perspective projection), thus only a single View is needed to compute the image for both eyes. I know Apple is too smart to render a second MapKit View when it doesn’t need to, so what is going on? The visionOS-animation jitter was coming from how MapKit effectively renders map and marker separately. In VisionOS, markers and annotations float above the map, creating a dual-view scenario managed by SwiftUI, which was confirmed by tracking unique identifiers (UUIDs) for each Map View. MapKit only needs a single View for rendering the Map but it needs a second View to capture the parallax needed for rendering the markers and annotations. AnnieMap's challenge then was to synchronize these separate animations for the map and marker across whichever pairs of Views SwiftUI creates. I found that different animation engines resulted in different qualities of synchronization across the pair of Views and that my best-performing animation engine still showed subtle drift as the animation ran for extended durations. Attempts revealed that the animations within these pairs of Views, while linked, behaved unpredictably when operated independently, which hints to SwiftUI’s deep intertwining between these pairs of Views. This was no doubt related to how SwiftUI and VisionOS handle the rendering of parallax for 3D perception. Ultimately, a straightforward solution emerged: leverage AnnieMap's existing "Animation Brain" within a single View for syncing camera and marker animations, while also, at the ViewModel level, tracking UUIDs to coordinate synchronization across whichever Views SwiftUI creates. This approach streamlined the process and addressed the underlying challenges with a two-tiered synchronization strategy where the second-tier (UUID tracking and synchronizing) is only compiled for visionOS and not for iOS and macOS. 

THE ART AND IMPACT OF ANIMATION. Animation, a fusion of art and technology, has become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing various fields from entertainment to education. As a 3MTT participant with a focus on Animation, I have delved into the intricacies of this dynamic medium, discovering its potential to convey complex narratives and emotions. This article aims to explore the fundamental aspects of animation, its evolution, and its significant impact on contemporary media. THE EVOLUTION OF ANIMATION Animation's roots trace back to early 2D techniques, where artists painstakingly hand-drew each frame. This traditional animation laid the foundation for storytelling in motion. The advent of digital technology revolutionized the field, introducing computer-generated imagery (CGI) and enabling more efficient and intricate productions. The transition from 2D to 3D animation has broadened the creative horizons for animators. 3D animation has become the standard in major film productions and video games. KEY COMPONENTS OF ANIMATION 1. Storyboarding: The blueprint of any animation project, storyboarding involves creating a visual outline of the narrative. 2. Character Design: Characters are the heart of any animated story. Designing them involves considering their appearance, personality, and movement style. 3. Rigging and Modeling: In 3D animation, rigging is the process of creating a skeleton for the characters, allowing them to move. Modeling involves creating the character's physical form, which can range from simple shapes to detailed, lifelike figures. 4. Animation and Motion Graphics: This phase brings characters and environments to life. Animators work on keyframes and motion paths, ensuring smooth and natural movements. 5. Rendering and Compositing: Rendering is the process of generating the final image from the animation software, which involves computing light, color, and shading. THE IMPACT OF ANIMATION Animation transcends mere entertainment; it has a profound impact on various sectors. In education, animated videos simplify complex concepts, making learning more accessible and engaging. Moreover, animation plays a pivotal role in emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). THE FUTURE OF ANIMATION The future of animation is promising, with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning set to revolutionize the field. AI-powered tools can automate repetitive tasks, allowing animators to focus more on creative aspects. CONCLUSION As a participant in the 3MTT Animation learning track, I am inspired by the endless possibilities that animation offers. It is a medium that blends art, technology, and storytelling. The skills and knowledge gained through this program have equipped me to contribute meaningfully to the world of animation, and I look forward to exploring the innovative ways this medium can shape our future. #my3mtt #3mttWeeklyReflection 3MTT Nigeria

7 reasons why 2D and 3D animation is better than live-action video 1 Creative Freedom One of the biggest advantages of animation is the ability to create whatever you can imagine. With animation, there are no limits to what you can create. You can create characters, environments, and objects that don't exist in the real world. This level of creative freedom allows you to tell stories in unique and imaginative ways. 2 Consistency Animation allows for consistency in visuals and design. In the live-action video, factors such as lighting, weather, and location can affect the final product, making it difficult to achieve a consistent look. With animation, you have complete control over every element, allowing you to maintain a consistent aesthetic throughout the entire project. 3 Cost-Effective Animation can be more cost-effective than live-action video in certain situations. For example, creating a complex scene with special effects in live-action videos can be expensive, but the same effect can be achieved with animation at a lower cost. Additionally, animation can save time and money by eliminating the need for costly location shoots or expensive sets and equipment. 4 Flexibility Animation allows for flexibility in editing and changes. In the live-action video, changes made during the editing process can be difficult and costly. In animation, changes can be made quickly and easily without the need for reshoots or additional filming. 5 Simplification Animation can simplify complex ideas or concepts. By using animation to illustrate complex ideas, you can make them easier to understand and digest. Animating abstract concepts or ideas can help make them more tangible and relatable. 6 Memorable Animation can be more memorable than a live-action video. The imaginative characters and worlds created in animation can leave a lasting impression on audiences, making them more likely to remember the message being presented. 7 Accessibility Animation is more accessible than a live-action video. Animations can be translated into multiple languages and can be understood by people from different cultures and backgrounds. Additionally, animation can be used to present information to people with disabilities, making it more inclusive.

Stylized motions that add zest to 3D cartoon productions Anyone familiar with keyframe animation understands the immense skills involved, even for seemingly basic tasks like animating a walk cycle. While keyframe animation grants artists full control to meticulously craft animations to realize their original vision, the process of creating pose-to-pose animations and then refining the in-between poses with precise timing and pacing is undeniably laborious. To circumvent this challenge, some animators opt for motion capture animation for stylized characters. While effective mocap animations can seamlessly animate a human model into a dynamic actor within the scene, this approach falls short with stylized characters. Translating human movements onto cartoonish characters dilutes their unique personalities, as their exaggerated actions and reactions lack authenticity, resulting in awkward visuals. Classic cartoon motions await on ActorCore Image: Hundreds of cartoon motions available on ActorCore. While desirable, toon motions can still be challenging to create. ActorCore, the asset store for 3D productions, offers hundreds of ready-made handkey animations. These animations save artists a significant amount of time and effort while ensuring high-quality, realistic cartoon movements.  ActorCore also provides dedicated categories, allowing users to easily find ideal moves for their stylized actors for a wide range of scenarios. All motions are crafted with seamless transitions between poses, enabling effortless switching of different sequences. Handkey animations chock-full of personality Image: ActorCore handkey motions are catered to match different toon personas. Handkey animations on ActorCore are crafted to accommodate a diverse range of stylized characters, providing unique animation styles suited to various body scales and personalities. Whether it’s a male, female, child, or a character with a robust or slender physique, ActorCore offers specialized motions for all cartoonish performances. Currently there are over 500 handkey motions available in the ActorCore motion store, from general movements such as walk, talk, run, to paired motions and interactions. Any motion that showcases unique cartoon personalities can be found, including playful, hefty, clumsy, cowardly, and more. One example is “Clumsy Moves”, is a handkey motion pack designed to infuse uproarious fun and slapstick humor. When applied, the characters come alive and engage in a variety of negligent behaviors resulting in slips, falls, and tumbles.  https://lnkd.in/eraGtSsn The “Chubby Moves” packs offer a range of lively performance animations tailored specifically for plus-sized characters. By incorporating compatible animations (like “Sit Chair” and “Sit Sofa”) across both the “Chubby Moves – Playful” and “Chubby Moves – Bulky” packs, motions can transition

5 Common Mistakes in Animation Animation is a captivating art form that brings characters and stories to life. However, even seasoned animators can fall into common traps that diminish the quality of their work. Here are five mistakes to watch out for: 1. Neglecting Timing and Spacing One of the fundamental principles of animation is timing. Poor timing can make movements feel unnatural or sluggish. Similarly, spacing affects how smooth or jerky a motion appears. Animators should pay close attention to the timing of keyframes and the spacing between them to create fluid, believable motion. 2. Ignoring Character Weight Characters should exhibit weight and mass in their movements. A common mistake is to animate characters as if they have no physical presence. This results in unrealistic motions, such as a heavy character floating or a light character moving too slowly. Understanding the physics of movement is essential for creating relatable and convincing animations. 3. Stiffness in Motion Animations that lack fluidity often come across as stiff or robotic. This can happen when animators forget to incorporate subtle movements or secondary actions, like breathing or shifting weight. Adding these nuances can enhance realism and make characters feel more alive. 4. Overcomplicating Scenes While creativity is crucial, overcomplicating scenes can detract from the overall message. Too many elements vying for attention can confuse viewers. Animators should strive for clarity by focusing on essential components that drive the narrative forward, ensuring that the audience remains engaged. 5. Neglecting Storytelling At its core, animation is about storytelling. Focusing solely on technical aspects can lead to a disconnect with the audience. Animators should always consider the emotional journey and character development, ensuring that each frame contributes to the narrative. By being aware of these common pitfalls, animators can enhance their craft and create more impactful and engaging animations. Embracing both the technical and narrative elements of animation is key to captivating audiences and telling compelling stories.

Hello Connections! Heres's my article on Animation... Animation is a dynamic art form that combines creativity and technology to create moving images that captivate audiences across the globe. From traditional hand-drawn cartoons to sophisticated computer-generated imagery (CGI), animation has evolved significantly over the years, becoming an integral part of entertainment, education, and various other industries. History and Evolution of Animation The history of animation dates back to ancient times when early humans created sequential images on cave walls, attempting to depict motion. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that animation began to take a recognizable form. The invention of devices like the zoetrope and the praxinoscope allowed images to be viewed in rapid succession, creating the illusion of movement. Types of Animation 1. Traditional Animation: Also known as hand-drawn animation, this technique involves creating each frame by hand. Each drawing is slightly different from the last, creating the illusion of movement when played in sequence. Classic Disney movies like Sleeping Beauty and The Little Mermaid are examples of traditional animation. 2. Stop-Motion Animation: This technique involves physically manipulating objects or puppets and capturing their movement frame by frame. Each tiny movement is photographed, and when the images are played in sequence, it creates the illusion of motion. Wallace and Gromit and The Nightmare Before Christmas are well-known examples. 3. Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI): CGI has revolutionized the animation industry, allowing for more detailed and realistic animations. Pixar's Toy Story was the first entirely computer-animated feature film, marking a new era in animation. 4. 2D Animation: This style involves creating flat, two-dimensional images. While it can be done traditionally, modern 2D animation often uses digital tools. Shows like The Simpsons and Avatar: The Last Airbender exemplify 2D animation. 5. 3D Animation: A subset of CGI, 3D animation creates three-dimensional models that can be rotated and moved in a virtual space. This technique is widely used in films, video games, and virtual reality experiences. Movies like Frozen and How to Train Your Dragon are prime examples. The Role of Technology in Animation Impact of Animation on Society Animation has had a profound impact on society, influencing culture, education, and even politics. Animated films and shows often serve as a mirror to society, addressing social issues and sparking conversations. For example, Zootopia tackled topics like racism and prejudice, while Inside Out delved into mental health and emotions. In education, animation is used to simplify complex concepts and engage students. Educational cartoons like Dora the Explorer and Bill Nye the Science Guy make learning fun and accessible to children. #snsinstitutions #snsdesignthinkers #designthinking

"Navigating the Animation Seas: Best Practices for Smooth Sailing 🚀" In the ever-evolving world of animation, mastering the art goes beyond drawing characters and creating motion – it's about embracing a set of best practices that steer your project towards success. Whether you're a seasoned animator or just dipping your toes into the vibrant waters of this industry, these tips will help you navigate the animation seas with confidence and creativity. 1. Set Sail with a Solid Plan ⚓️ Before you embark on your animation journey, create a detailed roadmap. Outline your storyline, characters, and key scenes. A robust plan acts as your compass, guiding you through the complexities of production and ensuring a smoother animation process. 2. Craft a Storyboard that Speaks Volumes 🎬 A compelling storyboard is the backbone of any animation project. It lays the foundation for your narrative and helps you visualize the flow of your story. Each frame is a brushstroke, painting the bigger picture of your animation masterpiece. 3. Characters Are the Stars – Develop Them! 🌟 Invest time in developing characters with depth and personality. Viewers connect with well-defined characters, enhancing the emotional impact of your animation. Think beyond the surface, and breathe life into your creations. 4. Consistency: The North Star of Animation 🌐 Maintain a consistent style and quality throughout your animation. A unified visual language enhances the viewer's experience and creates a cohesive narrative. Consistency is the wind in your sails, propelling your animation towards excellence. 5. Embrace Efficient Animation Techniques 🔄 Explore and master efficient animation techniques to optimize your workflow. Whether it's rigging, keyframing, or utilizing software features, staying abreast of the latest tools and methods enhances productivity and creativity. 6. Crew Collaboration: A Crew That Sails Together ⛵ Smooth sailing requires effective collaboration. Foster open communication within your team. Each member contributes a unique skill set – like a well-coordinated crew working in tandem to navigate the animation seas. 7. Attention to Detail: The Devil and the Delight 👁️ Details matter in animation. From subtle facial expressions to intricate background elements, every detail adds depth to your creation. Paying attention to the finer points elevates your work from good to extraordinary. 8. Stay Afloat with Industry Trends 📈 The animation industry is ever-changing. Stay informed about the latest trends, tools, and technologies. Embracing innovation keeps your work fresh and ensures you're riding the waves, not caught in their undertow. In conclusion, mastering the best practices in animation is about more than creating visually stunning sequences. By adopting these best practices, you'll not only sail smoothly through your animation projects but also chart a course towards excellence in this dynamic industry. Bon voyage! ⛵

If you’ve ever wondered about the captivating world of animation, you’ve likely come across the terms “2D” and “3D.” These two styles of animation bring characters and scenes to life in unique ways, each with its own strengths and applications. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the question: “2D vs. 3D Animation: Choosing the Right Style for You.” Whether you’re a filmmaker, a business owner, or simply an animation enthusiast, understanding these styles can help you make informed decisions about your projects. And when it comes to creating stunning courtroom graphics, Austin Visuals is a name you can trust. Let’s explore why. The Basics of 2D Animation First, let’s start with 2D animation. This style has been around for decades and is often associated with traditional hand-drawn animation. In 2D animation, characters and scenes are created on a flat plane, with artists drawing each frame by hand or using digital tools. This method of animation is known for its simplicity and versatility, making it suitable for various projects, including cartoons, explainer videos, and, yes, courtroom graphics. One of the key advantages of 2D animation is its ability to convey emotions and messages in a clear and direct manner. The visual style of 2D animation, with its flat colors and expressive characters, can resonate with audiences of all ages. In the context of courtroom graphics, 2D animation can be used to illustrate complex legal concepts, timelines, and processes in a visually engaging way. Whether you’re presenting evidence, recreating events, or simplifying legal jargon, 2D animation can make your case more compelling and understandable. The Power of 3D Animation On the other hand, 3D animation takes animation to new heights by adding depth, realism, and dynamic movement to characters and environments. Unlike 2D animation, which is created on a flat plane, 3D animation uses computer-generated imagery (CGI) to simulate three-dimensional spaces. This style of animation is commonly seen in blockbuster movies, video games, and architectural visualizations, thanks to its ability to create lifelike visuals and immersive experiences. In the realm of courtroom graphics, 3D animation offers unparalleled realism and detail. Imagine presenting a crime scene reconstruction in 3D, where jurors can explore every angle and detail of the scene as if they were there. Or visualizing complex medical procedures with precision and accuracy. 3D animation allows for precise measurements, realistic textures, and fluid motion, making it a powerful tool for conveying complex information in a compelling way. Key Differences Between 2D and 3D Animation Choosing the Right Style for Your Needs So, how do you choose between 2D and 3D animation for your courtroom graphics? The answer depends on your specific goals, budget, and audience. Here are some factors to consider: Complexity: If your graphics require intricate details, realistic environments, an

The Importance of Animation as a Profession In today's digital age, animation has become an integral part of our lives, influencing various sectors such as entertainment, education, advertising, and even healthcare. As we delve into the significance of animation as a profession, it becomes evident that this art form transcends mere entertainment; it serves as a powerful medium for storytelling, communication, and innovation. 1. Storytelling and Emotional Connection At its core, animation is about storytelling. Whether it's a heartwarming children's film, an action-packed video game, or an informative educational video, animators have the unique ability to bring characters and narratives to life. This emotional connection can resonate with audiences on a profound level, making complex ideas more relatable and engaging. Animators craft experiences that evoke joy, sadness, laughter, and empathy—emotions that can drive social change and cultural understanding. 2. Diverse Career Opportunities The field of animation offers a wide range of career paths. From character designers and storyboard artists to 3D modelers and visual effects specialists, the opportunities are vast. With the rise of technology, animators can also explore roles in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), creating immersive experiences that redefine how we interact with digital content. This diversity not only allows for personal growth and creativity but also ensures that there is a place for everyone in the industry. 3. Technological Innovation Animation is at the forefront of technological advancements. The integration of AI, machine learning, and advanced software has transformed traditional animation techniques, enabling artists to push the boundaries of creativity. As animators adapt to these changes, they become vital contributors to the tech industry, collaborating with engineers and developers to create cutting-edge applications and experiences that enhance our daily lives. 4. Education and Training As the demand for animated content continues to grow, so does the need for skilled professionals. Educational institutions are increasingly offering specialized programs in animation, ensuring that the next generation of artists is well-equipped with the technical skills and artistic vision necessary to thrive in this competitive field. By investing in education and training, we are fostering a community of innovators who will shape the future of animation. 5. Cultural Impact Animation has the power to bridge cultural gaps and bring diverse narratives to the forefront. Through animated films and series, we can explore different traditions, values, and perspectives, promoting inclusivity and understanding in a globalized world. As an animator, one has the opportunity to contribute to this cultural dialogue, sharing stories that reflect the richness of our human experience. .