The Animator’s Survival Kit
A masterclass in animation from an industry legend.
Summary of 7 Key Points
Key Points
- The 12 basic principles of animation
- Techniques for creating believable movement
- Timing and spacing in animation
- Walk cycles and character movement
- Advanced animation concepts
- Exercises to hone animation skills
- Williams’ insights from his animation career
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The 12 basic principles of animation
The 12 basic principles of animation, as outlined, form the foundation for all aspiring and professional animators to create more lifelike, convincing, and appealing animations. These principles were originally developed by Disney animators Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas in their 1981 book ‘The Illusion of Life’ and have been widely adopted within the industry. They are considered essential for creating an animation that truly resonates with viewers…Read&Listen More
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Techniques for creating believable movement
Creating believable movement in animation requires an understanding of the basic principles of motion. This involves not just the mechanics of movement, but the emotional, character-driven reasons behind why an entity moves in a certain way. One begins with the concept of timing and spacing, which refers to the distance between frames and the speed of the action. Proper timing and spacing can convey weight, momentum, and the physical laws that affect the character or object in motion…Read&Listen More
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Timing and spacing in animation
Timing and spacing are crucial aspects of animation that determine the speed and physicality of an object or character’s movement. Timing refers to the number of frames between two positions. More frames mean slower motion, while fewer frames result in faster motion. It is the animator’s tool for determining the duration of an action, essentially controlling the perceived speed of the animated object…Read&Listen More
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Walk cycles and character movement
Walk cycles are a foundational element of character movement, representing the looped sequence of frames that depict a character taking steps. In a walk cycle, animators strive to capture the rhythm and balance inherent in walking, which involves a continual shift of weight from one foot to the other. The cycle generally consists of eight key poses: contact, down, passing, up, and then the same four on the other side. These positions ensure the depiction of gravity, flexibility, and the physical dynamics essential to convey movement realistically or stylistically within the animated environment…Read&Listen More
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Advanced animation concepts
The concept of ‘anticipation’ is a crucial element that the book discusses in depth. Anticipation refers to a small movement or gesture that precedes a major action, which gives the audience a hint of what is about to happen. This not only makes the action more realistic but also helps to engage the viewer. For example, before a character jumps, they will usually bend their knees. This prep movement signals to the viewer that a jump is imminent, making the action clear and believable…Read&Listen More
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Exercises to hone animation skills
The exercises presented in ‘The Animator’s Survival Kit’ are designed to build foundational skills critical to the craft of animation. One of the core exercises involves the bouncing ball animation, which teaches animators about timing, spacing, and the principles of squash and stretch. Through this exercise, the animator learns how to convey weight and flexibility, creating a sense of gravity and elasticity that gives life to an otherwise simple object. The ball’s changing shape and the spacing of its positions as it moves through its arc are key to making the animation believable…Read&Listen More
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Williams’ insights from his animation career
Richard Williams, a well-respected figure in animation, draws from his extensive career to impart wisdom on the techniques and principles of animation in a manner that is both comprehensive and accessible. His insights are grounded in the belief that understanding the basics and cultivating a strong foundation are crucial to succeeding in animation. Williams emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamental principles of timing and spacing, as well as having a grasp on traditional animation techniques, even in an age where digital animation prevails…Read&Listen More