This class will teach you how to create a frame-by-frame animation that morphs. We will be choosing a shape, form, or character to morph into another. I will be using Gimp to demonstrate this process. It is free, open-source and very easy to use. However, you can use any software that you are most comfortable with, such as Photoshop or Krita.
What's a frame-by-frame animation?
Have you ever tried drawing on the pages of a flipbook? What happens when you flip through these pages! You can see an animation!
layers in Gimp are similar to pages in a notebook. It's similar to making a flipbook by drawing an illustration on each layer. You have a GIF!
This class will teach you three methods to make key frames for your morphing animation .
- A 2D Digital Illustration Technique
- A 2D Traditional Illustration Technique
- A Stop Motion Method
We'll be using Gimp to draw frames for the 2D digital technique. I'll show you how to import a sequence of photos or illustrations into Gimp and then transform it into a GIF. The principles and process are the same for all three methods.
This class focuses on more creativity in your morphing animations. I will be sharing my top tips and tricks throughout the course. We'll look at some of the most important animations in history and discuss where and how to find inspiration related to your project topic.
Morphing can be used to tell stories, create logo-motions, add appeal to films or commercials, and add creative transitions to visual storytelling. I hope you take this class to find new ways to spark ideas for filmmaking and develop your creativity in other areas. You will also be inspired to incorporate animation into your own films. Practice morphing and focusing not only on the destination but also the journey between two states or shapes can be a good practice to:
- Encourage creativity
- Develop an ability to problem-solve and algorithmic thinking.
- Have patience and enjoy the journey.
- Experiment with ideas in other media and fields, such as painting, graphics design, architecture, and industrial design.
Let's get started - see you in class!
