Gnomon School of Visual Effects

Applying Character Techniques in Animation

This course covers advanced techniques in character animation. It focuses on producing at least two demo-reel-quality animation scenes through nailing down the subtleties of animation, including facial animation, working on giving characters proper weight, and good acting. Exercises include Heavy Lift — showing weight, clear staging and trimming; Dialog Acting Test — finding the most entertaining way to deliver dialog.

Students will animate starting from a blocking pass, then to final animation. Using a production-type environment, students pitch their idea via the blocking pass. Everything an animator does should have purpose, down to the smallest gesture. Exercises focus on making visual and tactual contact with objects and other techniques that will help sell the scene. Lectures will feature guest speakers. This course is designed for working pros who need a refresher and students who have already completed the Character Animation 1 and 2 classes.