In this module, we delved into the world of motion graphics by looking at examples for inspiration. Then, we learned the essential skills and techniques needed to create an animated intro for ourselves in Adobe AE.
Reading and Writing
In Chapter 2 of Animated Storytelling by Liz Blazer, the focus is on understanding storytelling as a timeless medium. Blazer delves into the story structure and nonlinear story structure methods. For the structured approach, the three-act structure is discussed and outlines the key elements of identifying a character’s problem, moving the character’s journey towards a solution, and the ultimate resolution, often presented in a surprising way. She also explores the concept of nonlinear story structures, offering various frameworks like book ending (end the story where it began), the beaded necklace (use music, sound, or voiceover to hold chaotic elements together), the countdown (create a constant upwards build n drama until the end), the puzzle (keep your audience in the dark about certain story information and reveal it piece by piece), and the high concept (the big idea takes center stage above characters as the premise or hook drives the story structure). This chapter serves as a foundational guide for constructing compelling narratives within the animation and motion graphics world.
Chapter 3, titled “Unlocking Your Story,” talks about a more free-thinking approach to creating stories. Blazer introduces alternate narrative forms for those willing to experiment. The narrative form explores writing exercises such as revealing a clear conflict early, starting major story ideas later, incorporating big secrets by “following” and “spying” on your character for a while to get an understanding of their nature and motivations, and creating a series of graphs that illustrate the plots of the most popular types of stories. The experimental form, on the other hand, includes diverse approaches like visual music (translating the sounds and rhythms of music into your visual story), pure poetry (appreciating and illustrating a verse in a story), repetition and evolution (a repetitive cycle that slowly changes or evolves), continuity and diversity (an element that stays the same with elements of change around it), anthology (ways to explore your theme), and “cut it out and play” or playing with paper cutouts of story elements to get a clear picture. This chapter provides creative insights for animators to think outside the conventional storytelling box.
Moving on to Chapter 4, the focus shifts to the crucial aspect of storyboarding and the process of building a visual script. The chapter first covers topics like constructing the storyboard through thumbnailing and revisions. Then, it provides hints for effective storyboarding like varying your shots responsibly, framing and the rule of thirds, and staging (or creating visual and conceptual hierarchy). Furthermore, it addresses transitions and continuity such as spatial continuity (frame consistency with the physical world), temporal continuity (frame consistency with the story), and directional continuity (consistent direction from frame to frame). Lastly, Blazer emphasizes the importance of assessing whether the storyboard is truly working and introduces concepts like timing (establish a total running time, breaking the story into segments, and accurately timing each scene) and animatics (a video version of storyboards arranged sequentially on an animation timeline, synchronized with a soundtrack) to enhance the storytelling experience. In the end, this chapter equips readers with practical tools to visually structure their animated stories.
Research to Inform
In just 17 seconds, the PS Studios Opening Animation captures our attention with its short but brilliant showcase. The video is highly engaging, seamlessly blending game clips and motion graphics to achieve a stunning fusion of simplicity and sophistication. The minimalistic use of text and the iconic PlayStation logo creates a powerful visual impact. The sound design is what really elevates the experience, adding an extra layer of excitement to the unveiling of the new brand. This animation serves as a prime example of how concise and effective storytelling paired with outstanding motion graphics, can leave a lasting impression.
In under 40 seconds, the Marvel Studios Opening Animation earns its place in my exploration of motion graphics for its masterful blend of cinematic elements. The sequence unfolds like flipping comic book pages, with dynamic transitions that seamlessly merge imagery with recognizable characters. As the visual narrative unfolds, the frame zooms out to reveal the word “Marvel” and then smoothly transitions into a sleek silver “Marvel Studios” logo. This classic animation serves as a benchmark for how a brand narrative can be elegantly introduced and established.
In just one minute, The Last of Us opening credits on Max effortlessly capture both simplicity and narrative artistry. The visuals elegantly depict the process and aftermath of the cordyceps outbreak, highlighting the transformed relationship between nature and humanity. This title sequence manages to be both calming and poignant, showcasing the profound narrative within the TV series.
Create
Here’s my animated personal introduction created using Adobe.
In this short animated video: I introduce myself, my expertise and education, past related experience, and a few of my interests outside of my professional work.