Character Design for Animation
This playbook outlines the procedure for creating and designing characters for animation. It takes you from the early stage of conceptual sketches through the refining process to a final digital character ready for animation.
Step 1: Research
Conduct research to understand the character's background, setting, and role in the animation. This includes analyzing similar character designs, and understanding the genre and target audience.
Step 2: Concept Sketching
Begin with rough sketches to explore different designs, postures, expressions, and props. These sketches should capture the essence of the character.
Step 3: Refine Sketches
Select the most promising concepts and refine the sketches, focusing on details and personality. Consolidate feedback from peers or clients during this process.
Step 4: Create Turnarounds
Develop turnarounds, which are drawings of the character from multiple views (front, side, back, and 3/4 views). This ensures consistency in the character's proportions and features.
Step 5: Color and Textures
Decide on color schemes, textures, and patterns that match the character’s personality and role in the story. Apply these elements to the turnarounds.
Step 6: Digitize
Transfer the refined character designs to digital format using suitable graphic design software. Clean up lines and add the final details to the digital drawings.
Step 7: Finalize Design
Add the last touches to the character design, making sure it is polished, and visually appealing. This should also include a final review to ensure the design meets the project's requirements.
Step 8: Prep for Animation
Prepare the finalized character design for the animation process. This may include breaking the character into layers or components if using 2D animation, or rigging the model for 3D animation.
General Notes
Feedback Loops
Remember to include regular feedback loops with the animation team and other stakeholders during the character design process to ensure alignment with the project's vision.