Animation Techniques : Traditional Animation

There are many animation techniques, the most commonly used technique being traditional animation techniques. Traditional animation consists of both hand drawn animation and is also refereed to as cel animation. How an individual would approach traditional techniques in animation is that the animated film would consist of photographs that are drawn (more then often) on paper. The drawings are then either photocopied or traced (Depending on what the artist prefers) onto transparent sheets known as Cels. Cels are filled with assigned colours, tones and saturation on sides and the lines of the drawings.  One completed, the Cels are photographed individually whilst against a painted background by a Camera and then onto a film. This approach became the most popular and widely used during the 21st century.


Despite this, alterations have not been made to the appearance and style of traditional Cel animation, and is kept preserved as a way to mark the time of its release.











A good example of  a traditionally animated film is "Pinocchio" which was produced in 1940



There are four main techniques involved in traditional animation.

Full Animation 
The process of full animation includes using detailed drawings that are ordered specifically so that when put together it would form a plausible movement so that the resulting animation will have a smooth effect and feel. The style of full animation is split between a realistic style and a cartoon style.

This is a good example of a realistically full animation is"The Little Mermaid", produced in 1989











A good example of a cartoon styled full animation is "The Iron Giant" that was produced in 1999.



Limited Animation
The process of limited animation differs from full animation with that the drawings are usually determined by a free use of line that are expressive and that mainly convey movement. It is best known for being cost effective, making it a popular technique for television series and web cartoons.









A good example of a limited animation is "Yellow Sumbarine" that was produced in 1968


Rotoscoping
The process of Rotoscoping involves tracing movement frame by frame, it can be used in two ways that can be seen as both beneficial and problematic. One way it can be used is to copy outlines and styles from animators drawings. The other way it can be used is to emphasize an expressive style, in addition to this it is also very time-saving as artists are less likely to make any mistakes, thus not having to start over.









A good example of a Rotoscaping animation is "A Scanner Darkly" that was produced in 2006.



Live action/animation
The process of Live-action involves combining two styles to create one whole diverse style. The two styles that are often combined are hand drawn characters and live action orientated shots, however this order is also often switched depending on the animators personal preference.

A good example of a live action animation is "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" which was produced in 1988