Animation Process
The animation process isn’t an exact science. Every animation is different and thus the process will change slightly, most animation studios also work slightly differently and on top of that the animation process will vary based on the style of animation being created and the animation techniques involved.
That said, in 2015 we created the 7 steps of animation process video, whilst a lot has changed since 2015, our 7 steps remain the same and are valid for the majority of animation projects we still create, wether 2D animations or 3D animations.
Animation Process Steps:
At Cub our animation process differs slightly for every project we create, partly due to the range of clients we have, but also for the range of projects we create. However, the underlying process principles and general order of production remain consistent.
If you've never made an animation or motion graphics project before, the process isn’t always intuitive and the nature of sign-off at each stage can seem a bit daunting, especially in the earlier stages, but studios like Cub will help guide you through the process.
Below are the 7 steps most of our animation projects go through, wether we’re creating a 60s explainer video or a 30s TV advert.
01_Briefing
We listen to your objectives and goals to understand the story you wish to convey along with your target audience, deadline and budget requirements. Key elements of this information feed in to your script, treatment and style frames.
02_Scripting
Whether you are adept at writing your own script or require our help and collaboration to form your story, you’ll always have the opportunity to steer, amend and finally sign off your script. This is the first major sign-off point of the project as only once the script is signed off will we move ahead with the voice-over recording.
03_Style Frames
Working in accordance with your brand guidelines and from your brief, we create a number of keyframes so that you can see exactly how the finished video will look. At this time we'll also create a written treatment that describes exactly what we will animate in time with the voice-over. We believe this will give you the best understanding of how the animation will look and what it will include.
04_Voice Over
We can help you find the ideal voice to match your brand and budget - if you already have your own voice artist or would like to promote an organic approach and record your CEO, we are happy to accommodate this too.
05_Animation
With the script, style frames, and voice-over signed off, it's time to start animating. Animation is not a fast process and this step may take several weeks to complete, depending on the length of the voice-over. This is why it's essential we collaborate and sign off the previous elements.
06_Audio Mix
Any relevant sound effects are now added, huffs and puffs from the voice-over removed and the chosen music track are mixed together to bring life to the whole piece!
07_Sign Off
The animated video files are exported to your technical requirements and delivered to you! We can now relax and have a cup of tea!
