Magic | Animation Breakdown!
I uploaded a video breakdown of my animation process! I'l elaborate on the steps here since there may be other animators!
Step 1: Planning
My planning step is a very bare-bones animatic. I map out movement and key poses that I hope to achieve in the later stages. Planning is where I decide whether to keep certain scenes or cut them.
Step 2: Sketching
The sketching step is when I start creating movement. I animate the main movements, such as the paw swing and body twist. Later on I add secondary movements such as the facial expressions.
Step 3: Smooth Sketch
The smooth sketch step is mostly a refining step so I can make sure I have everything how I want it. This step is also where I add fur/hair movements!
Step 4: Line Art
Line art mirrors the smooth sketch step, but a lot more controlled and smooth. I also fix any inconsistencies I notice!
Step 5: Coloring, Shading, and Highlights + Effects
I tend to lump these steps together since this is the easiest part for me! I plan out the markings then I color the character accordingly. Then I add shading based on where the light source is, in this case the magic ball. I then add highlights on the line art to really pack a punch! To me, highlights bring everything together!
I created the smoke clouds in a strange stupor where I managed to finish it in one go!
I must confess, this is applaudable. Keep it up. I love the way you showed us the transition from the sketch to the final result on video. You could as well, take screenshots of each process and make written explanations alongside so we can fully grasp an understanding of what you did (step by step), Doing this would give you faster exposure on the platform for what you are known to do.
Welcome to the Community. Upvoted + Following you already.
Thank you for the feedback! I hope to apply it to an animation I plan to finish in the future!
Excellent work! Are you planning to create an anime/cartoon or video game? That's super cool, something I fancied doing but never got into.