Introduction and Orientation Theory Duration

• Explain the importance of media and entertainment
• Describe the role and responsibility of an animator
• Explain the technical terms associated with animation

MES/N0701-  Understand animation requirements

This unit is about understanding the project brief, product requirements and methodology/technique(s) to be used for production.

• Discuss the creative and technical requirements of the project with Director, ArtDirector and Supervisors. This could include the following: Identify the concept and/or style of animation, script, storyboard and animatic
• Identify the target audience, define project pipeline/ asset management/ scheduling and activities, project timelines and constraints, production brief/ key milestones for delivery, creative brief/desired look of the endproduct – using similar projects for reference
• List the quality standards to be maintained
• Identify and list the technical details like aspect ratio, output format, list of deliverables and their respective output format

MES/N0702- Conceptualise creative ideas for production

• Research and find character references that would aid and inspire designs
• Design creative concepts and ideas for production using visualization and using references from the concept art-work prepared by the designers, drawing from imagination, acting and performing
• Explain ideas to the Director, Art Director and Supervisors
• Identify the style of the work-product that would most appeal to the target audience in sync with the schedule and show requirement

MES/N0703 - Plan tools and workflow

• Compare various types of software tools available for production in the market
• Research and Suggest the best tool for the production
• Evaluate timelines for production in accordance to the production schedule (supervisor)
• List the production workflow/schedule, deliverables and timelines with the Director, Art Director and Supervisors

MES/N0704 - Produce 2D animation

MES/N0705 - Produce 3D animation

• Follow the storyboard for composition i.e. positioning of the character with respect to the background and camera to create the desired animation
• Draw/source key frame drawings to establish a reference point for strong poses Incorporate audio/music assets
• Create shadows for animation using pre- defined lighting keys
• Bring assets together to produce sequences and scenes/shots as per requirements and ensuring continuity
• Ensure that the hook-up/transition from one scene to another is done properly
• Create compositions with layers and build a perspective view in the scene/shot.
• Work effectively within the team and with other departments, namely, assets, lighting and effects
• Critically review animation produced, keeping in mind the creative and design specifications and producer brief
• Refine the output based on deviations observed and/or modifications required within requisite timelines
• Ensure that the work-products meet quality standards (so that they can be approved with minimum iterations) and are delivered within the requisite timelines
• Organise, store and manage workproducts into file formats using standard file naming conventions and maintain assets for further use.
• Communicate with junior animators regarding the project specifications to meet the production delivery as scheduled
• Apply principles of design, 2D animation and film-making to create sequences and scenes/shots
• Apply 3D animation techniques including realistic 3D animation (motion capture + key frame)

Communication and Professional Skills

• Report output, efforts and scheduletaken to complete the allotted task
• Read and understand the script and character descriptions
• Read the work plan and production schedule to ensure that progress is in line
• Suggest creative ideas to the Director and Animation supervisor
• Communicate clearly and collaborate effectively with colleagues who are working with the previous or next scenes/shots
• Understand the modifications required from the Director, Animation supervisor and Producer
• Discuss the challenges faced during production and discuss ways to address such challenges in future projects
• Make decisions in order to be able to work collectively and independently, where required
• Understand shot break up and plan effort and time required for each element of the shot
• How to plan and prioritise individual timelines and deliver on schedule
• Work effectively as a member of the team and help realize overall timelines
• Prioritise work-products and tasks based on requirements