Let’s first look at the differences in animation to answer the question: What is 2D animation?
You are probably familiar with this type of animation more than you think. This type of work involves the creation of two-dimensional characters and objects in a flat area. You can think of it like this: Everything you draw has a width and height, but no depth. This would make it three-dimensional.
How do you get characters and flat objects to move? The artist would use 2D animation software to sequence each image.
Animations typically show one drawing every two frames in a standard 24fps film. That means there are 12 individual drawings shown in one second. This may vary depending on what style of animation you are using. In anime, for example, the “threes” are preferred to the “twos”. Think about the frame rate you want to use when creating a 2D animation.
You can create 2D animation for big screens using classic Disney movies. It’s not uncommon to hear people ask, “Is 2D animation dead?” However, it’s still being used extensively in commercials, corporate advertising, and video games.
Do you want to see 2D animation in action? Here are some examples.
The majority of Disney films and cartoons now use 3D animation, but it wasn’t for some of our favorites classics.
The Pixar Computer animation Production System was first used in feature films. This came after years of hand-drawn pencil and 2D animation. The Walt Disney Company developed this 2D animation tool in an effort to reduce post-production costs.
The Simpsons, the longest-running American animation series, has a consistent look and feel despite the many changes in animation tools over the years.
Pencil Check Pro can be expensive to install so it’s not the best choice for beginners looking for 2D animation software. The team uses Pencil Check Pro to create 15 scenes based on static storyboards.
2D Animation is Easy
Animation is like any other creative art. It can be as simple as or as complex as you wish. All you need for 2D animation is a pencil, basic software, and a computer. You can create animated cartoons by improving your static drawing skills.
A talent you have to draw fast and accurately is essential if you want to pursue a career in 2D animation. Studio costs can rise if they have to rework 2D drawings. It is costly to do so.
Technology has made it easier to create 2D animation for beginners and more accessible to amateur artists. There are plenty of classes available that can help you start creating your characters, even if animation software is new to you.
An animated video can seem daunting for beginners. Some beginners may compare 2D animation to programming. It isn’t about programming or solving complicated math problems, but that is the good news.
Here are the top reasons to choose 2D animation for your Video
Animated videos can be used to communicate ideas and information, which is something we all know. It adds life to animated characters.
Even if 2D animation is not something you have done before, it is possible to get started. We will provide a clear guide that will help you make your first 2D animated video. This guide is for beginners who wish to make 2D animation videos.
Basic steps to 2D Animation
Keep the basic animation principles in your mind and you can dive into actual animation. These tips and tricks will guide you through the process of animating.
1. With a storyboard, you can set yourself up for success.
Create a storyboard before you start working on an animation project. You should remember that animation is different from graphic design. Even though the two work together, an animator or video producer should always consult a graphic artist to create the blueprints before they put the animation into motion. It is much harder to figure out the best principles to use for any animation without a clear plan and a written script.
The visual structure of a storyboard serves as the basis for the project’s vision. There are many storyboard templates available online. You can also make your own. A good storyboard will contain the video’s title, purpose, shot number, graphic orb roll footage, suggested video clips, overlayed text, audio, and the associated audio.
2.Choose the animation software you prefer.
You should research which software you will use to animate. Canva is an excellent place to start learning and practicing the basics. This could be the right place to go if you are animating a GIF or a very short piece. Adobe After Effects will allow you to continue animating.
Learning how to use either whiteboard animation software can be time-consuming. Instead, look to YouTube for help. Look up the skill you need and find a tutorial. Udemy has a wide range of animation classes that can be used as a guide for animating.
3. Each animation must be preceded by still images.
Once you have your storyboard in place and your plan for animating, it is time to begin the actual animation process. Make sure you create the layout as a single image before animating. This is where principle number 11 (solid drawing) really comes into play. Your images must feel real and full of depth, even when they are still on the page. This will make it easier to add movement.
You can hire a graphic designer if you don’t have the skills to draw or illustrate. Sean states, “I couldn’t accomplish what I do without my support system — my colleagues.” But, if your goal is to become an animator seriously, take art classes (if not already) to learn how to design still images.
4. Keep your animations arranged.
Create assets (such as background, characters, and shapes) and then animate them together. You can group assets together if they have the same zoom and push animation applied to them. This saves time, improves efficiency, and organizes things. Then sequence the assets. Then, pick the most important and move on to the next step. Natural animation is possible only if everything happens at the right moment.
5. Make the most of all your resources.
You don’t have to go to YouTube or Udemy for help. There are plenty of resources out there that can help you get started. You don’t necessarily need fancy resources to help you get started with animation. Any resource that helps to understand shape and movement is a great help. These resources aren’t a waste because they can be used to draw, paint, or illustrate. You can trust us that After Effects will follow the movements in your wrist and arm.
