Production for 3D Animation

This is the last animation production I will be summarising, unlike the previous two (2D and Stop Motion) the processes for 3D animation are longer, with more steps. Some stages are similar to that of the methods in stop motion, but they are in different order and require different techniques.

Step 1: Modelling
Unlike stop motion, the first step is to model the object or character that is required to be animated. The modeller creates a 3D model using a specialist software such as MudBox, ZBrush, Cinema 4D or Maya. The 3D model is done to a high accuracy based on the final concept design from the pre-production stage.
Depending on what the model is required for it may be of low or high detail, for examples films will be higher and games although detailed may be a bit more limited due to the need for programming.





Step 2: Rigging
Rigging comes in after the modelling is completed and finalised. Rigging is the digital version of armature that is created during the stop motion stage. A different person or team to the ones modelling are in charge of rigging as this involves more technical ability. Rigging is a time consuming process as it involves building and placing all the skeleton and armature. It must also be weighted to ensure the corresponding limbs move correctly and also needs to be programmed.

Step 3: Texturing
Once the model has been completed, it is then necessary to add the texturing, again this is based off the final concept design achieved in the first part of production. Texturing is also completed by a separate team of people, some textures are pre-made, however sometimes a separate texture artist is required to create specialist materials. Texturing involves not only adding colours, but also requires the replication of materials such as clothing and metal. Texturing is also used for hair, skin and all the details of a scene. If it is not done well texturing can ruin the models that have been produced.




Step 4: Add Lighting
Lighting is an important part of an animation. Lighting helps to create and make things appear more realistic, it also helps to create a specific atmosphere depending on the scene. A lack of lighting can also undo the previous stages as it can make the models appear less 3-Dimensional, this could happen due to the lack of shadows as these are what create the shape to our eyes. Lighting is generally achieved during the production in Cinema 4D and Maya, however atmospheric lighting may also be added in the compositing stage of post-production.




Step 5: Key Framing
Key framing is the same in 2D animation, except once the main movements have been keyframed the inbetween frames are automatically generated by the software. For example, for a walk cycle the first key frame would be the character in a standing position, whilst the 2nd position would change to the next main position. Key frames may be planned out before being put into the system.


Step 6: Animation
This is the most important part of the production stage, if previous stages have not been completed to the right quality it will be obvious now. The animator uses the rigged and programmed model to create a series of separate key-frames which can be linked together and produce a fluid animation. This is done by using different controls on the rig and making them pose in a particular way. This is also the stage where other elements such as the camera are moved and key-framed.



Step 7: Render
Once the animation is running correctly after numerous checks and run-throughs, it is time to do the final render. This means the file is exported into a final film file and allows all the elements such as the textures and the movements to be combined into the complete product.