This week, I have continued to refine the previsualization (previs), making incremental improvements to enhance its polish and realism.
Changes made
1. Curves I adjusted the curves of the floating balloon to improve its movement and visual flow, ensuring it appears more natural and aligned with the intended animation.
2. Proportions
Tree: As the balloon floats higher in the sky, the trees in the background should appear significantly smaller, reflecting the vast distance. I made this adjustment to enhance the realism of the scene, ensuring the proportions align with real-world perspectives.
Yellow Balloon: In the previous version, the yellow balloon appeared disproportionately large. To correct this, I reduced its size, making it more consistent with the surrounding elements in the scene.
3. Timing and Spacing In a moment where the balloon nearly collides with a car, the balloon’s upward motion was too abrupt, which felt unnatural. I revised the timing to create a smoother transition. However, the motion still appeared unnatural as the balloon moved vertically rather than diagonally, as it would in real life.
Additionally, I refined the curves in the graph editor to correct some unexpected movements. Certain sections of the animation had overly smooth transitions, marked by ease-in and ease-out, which were inappropriate for this scene. I adjusted the curves to ensure a more straightforward and realistic motion.
4. Additional Shot I introduced a new shot just before the balloon almost collides with a branch in the bushes. This additional shot enhances the sequence by providing a smoother and more intense transition, evoking a sense of excitement and tension.
Changes to be made
However, an issue emerged in this updated previs regarding the height difference between two consecutive shots. In the first shot, the balloon descends, but in the next shot, it moves upward before descending again. Additionally, the background in the latter shot suggests a higher vantage point, creating an inconsistency with the earlier scene, which appears closer to the ground. I plan to address this discrepancy in the next iteration of the previs.
According to Research.com, it is crucial to narrow down your research question when beginning a study. Given the constraints of word limits and the need for a focused thesis, it is essential to select a specific field of inquiry to ensure that the research remains clear and manageable. Below are the key steps for effectively narrowing down a research question.
Steps to Defining a Good Research Topic:
Topic Knowledge: Begin by gaining a solid understanding of the topic you are interested in. This foundational knowledge will guide your decision-making process.
Formulating a Working Question: Based on your knowledge of the topic, draft a working research question. This question should be broad enough to allow for exploration, but specific enough to provide clear direction.
Conducting Preliminary Research: Investigate existing literature to refine your question. This step will help you identify gaps in the current body of knowledge and further narrow your focus.
Establishing an Appropriate Timeframe: Consider the timeframe within which your study will take place. For example, when will the events or phenomena mentioned in your thesis occur? Defining this timeframe will make your research question more focused and manageable.
Choosing Between Qualitative and Quantitative Research: As discussed in previous lessons, understanding whether your research will be qualitative or quantitative is essential.
Quantitative Research: Quantitative research questions establish a clear link between the research question and the research design. These questions typically cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no” response. Additionally, quantitative questions avoid using terms such as “is,” “are,” “do,” or “does.” Rather, they are framed in a way that allows for the measurement and analysis of data.
Qualitative Research: Qualitative research questions, in contrast, tend to be more open-ended and flexible. These questions are often designed to “discover,” “explain,” or “explore” particular phenomena. They may address broad or specific areas of study, and they are typically non-directional and adaptable (Creswell, 2013). Qualitative research is often used when the aim is to understand deeper, contextual meanings.
Research Frameworks for Structuring Your Topic:
There are several frameworks that can assist in constructing a clear and focused research question. Two commonly used frameworks are the PICOT and PEO models.
The PICOT Framework: Introduced in 1995 by Richardson et al., the PICOT framework is widely used in clinical and evidence-based research. It helps structure research questions by addressing the key elements of the study, including the population, intervention, comparison group, outcome, and timeframe. The components of the PICOT framework are as follows:
P: Population, patients, or problem
I: Intervention or indicator being studied
C: Comparison group
O: Outcome of interest
T: Timeframe of the study
Example: “In adult patients with chronic pain (P), does acupuncture (I) compared to traditional pain medication (C) reduce pain levels (O) within six months (T)?”
The PEO Framework: The PEO framework is particularly useful for qualitative research. It includes the following elements:
P: Population being studied
E: Exposure to preexisting conditions or factors
O: Outcome of interest
The PEO framework is ideal for research that seeks to understand experiences or perceptions within a given population, especially when a comparative group or intervention is not the primary focus.
Avoid Vague Terminology:
It is important to avoid using vague terms such as “explore” in the formulation of your research topic. While “explore” might seem appealing, it is often too broad and does not provide enough direction. A well-defined research topic should be specific in every aspect to ensure clarity and focus.
In this week’s revision, my attention has been directed towards refining the finer details of the animation. Specifically, I have concentrated on incorporating the missing connection shots, enhancing the clarity of the character’s movements, and adjusting the speed and timing of these movements. Additionally, I have focused on improving the precision of the balloon’s squash and stretch to ensure a more accurate and dynamic representation. These adjustments aim to elevate the overall fluidity and realism of the animation, making it more engaging and visually compelling.
Changes made
Missing Connection Shots
Details of the Character Movements
Speed of Movement
Precision of the Balloon’s Squash and Stretch
1. Missing Connection Shots
To improve the narrative flow, I have added a transition shot of the cloud and sky. This shot serves to bridge the gap between the balloon’s ascent and its subsequent movement toward the city, viewed from a first-person perspective. This addition strengthens the visual continuity, providing a seamless link between the balloon’s journey and the unfolding story.
2. Details of the Character Movements
I have refined the character movements to enhance emotional expression and storytelling. At the beginning, I introduced a crying motion for the child, followed by the clown’s comforting gesture, where he offers the child another balloon. This change shifts the tone from sadness to one of cheerfulness, creating a more positive atmosphere. At the conclusion of the animation, I incorporated a gesture of the child grabbing and hugging the balloon, which helps convey a deeper sense of affection and attachment, enriching the narrative and allowing the audience to feel the child’s emotional connection to the moment.
3. Speed of Movement
I identified several instances where the pacing felt too abrupt. Notably, the sequence where the balloon rises at the beginning, as well as when it descends later, needed to be adjusted. By altering the speed of these movements, I was able to improve the overall flow of the animation, creating a more natural and visually pleasing rhythm that better supports the story.
4. Precision of the Balloon’s Squash and Stretch
In the previous version of the animation, the timing and rotation of the balloon’s squash and stretch were not consistent, particularly during the moment when the car approaches. I focused on refining the balloon’s deformations to ensure smoother and more accurate movements. These adjustments help to enhance the overall fluidity of the animation, making the balloon’s reactions more believable and dynamic.
Changes to be made
1. Details of the Animation
While the basic animation for the balloon and side characters is in place, their movements still lack the level of detail needed to elevate the overall animation. These movements feel incomplete and are still at an early stage. To address this, I plan to refine the animation, with a particular focus on adjusting the speed and adding finer details to make the characters’ actions more fluid and engaging. This step is crucial to ensuring that the animation feels more polished and cohesive.
2. Props
Although I am unsure if prop details are typically included in a previs, I believe they are an important consideration as I progress toward my final major project (FMP). Incorporating prop details will help enhance the realism and depth of the environment. Some key props that I plan to refine or adjust include:
Bushes: These play a significant role in a scene where the balloon nearly crashes into them at the end.
Buildings: Enhancing the design of the buildings will contribute to a more believable setting.
Balloon: The balloon itself will need further refinement, especially in how it interacts with its environment.
Road: The road surface and its details should be considered for a more grounded, realistic setting.
Park Chair: Adding more detail to the chair will help integrate it into the scene better.
Fences: Enhancing the fences will provide more context and texture to the environment.
Additionally, I may explore adding color, lighting, and test renders if time allows. These elements would further elevate the visual impact of the animation, providing a richer and more immersive experience.
3. Sound Design
I am currently seeking collaboration with a sound design graduate to enhance the auditory experience of my project. I believe that selecting the right music and sound effects is essential to complementing the visuals and enhancing the emotional depth of the animation. By working with a professional in sound design, I hope to find suitable audio elements that will effectively support the narrative and bring the animation to life in a more dynamic way.
In today’s lesson, we explored the fundamental principles of constructing a well-developed argument. A crucial aspect of this process is identifying the core message one wishes to convey and determining the areas of greatest personal interest.
Beyond individual preferences, there are established guidelines that can enhance the clarity and coherence of an argument. For instance, when structuring a paragraph, it is essential to include a thesis statement, a supporting reason, a premise, a counterargument, and a conclusion. Incorporating these elements ensures that the argument remains clear, logically structured, and comprehensive, ultimately strengthening the overall effectiveness of the thesis.
By adhering to these principles, one can develop arguments that are not only well-organized but also compelling and academically rigorous.
This week, I am focusing on revising the previous work. I have made adjustments to each shot in order to enhance the smoothness and bring them closer to the final desired outcome.
Changes made
The changes I implemented primarily encompass the following areas:
Timing
Pacing
Framing
Proportion
Modeling
While focusing on the adjustments recommended, I occasionally overlooked certain compositional principles, particularly the rule of thirds in framing. For wider shots, I realized that incorporating closer shots might improve the visual impact and provide a more balanced perspective.
In terms of proportion, I paid particular attention to the relationship between the building and the human figures, ensuring that both elements were appropriately scaled to create a cohesive and realistic representation.
As for modeling, I enhanced the first shot by adding a path, trees, and taller fences, effectively transforming the scene into a park-like environment. Additionally, in a scene where a car is depicted speeding, I widened the road and introduced streetlights to reinforce the impression of a busy roadway. These modifications collectively contribute to a more dynamic and immersive visual narrative.
Changes to be made
There are still several areas I need to refine:
1. Timing Some shots appear awkward in terms of timing. For instance, certain sequences are too rapid, which makes it difficult for the audience to fully comprehend crucial moments, such as when the balloon slides under the car. To address this, I plan to extend the duration of these shots to allow for better visibility and smoother transitions.
2. Transitions In the scene where the balloon is floating towards the sky, the subsequent shot transitions to a view of the park. However, this change feels abrupt, as if something is missing in between. I believe inserting a shot that bridges the two scenes would help the audience better understand the direction in which the balloon is traveling, creating a more seamless and coherent flow.
3.Proportion There are still proportion issues to address, particularly when duplicating props across different shots. I did not initially account for the scale, which resulted in human props being as large as trees. This inconsistency needs to be corrected to maintain visual realism and balance throughout the scene.
Symbols can hold varied meanings depending on the context in which they are presented. In today’s lesson, we explored a range of animations that deviated from the conventional format, where stories typically follow a specific, linear narrative. Instead, these animations adopted a more experimental approach, incorporating symbolic elements. For instance, the use of a paper-folding woman was employed to represent her constrained role and position within a relationship, highlighting the subtle complexities of her social context.
Key aspects of metamorphosis include
1) Transition
2) Loop
One notable advantage of metamorphosis is the ease of transition. Unlike other narrative techniques, metamorphosis allows for seamless shifts in form or perspective without requiring complex connections between scenes. A simple camera turn or a blank screen can effectively mark the transition, eliminating the need for direct continuity. This flexibility makes it an effective tool in visual storytelling, offering room for creative exploration without the constraints of linear progression.
Alternatively, one could create a real-life stop-motion music video, utilizing a variety of props such as fruits, clothing, flowers, and more.
There is also one particular music video that captivates me, which primarily utilizes a wiggly line as its animation. This style brings to mind many contemporary music videos on platforms like YouTube, where the animation tends to be simple yet dynamic, often featuring continuous movement without complex designs. However, during the time when animation was still in its early stages, such an approach would have been highly experimental and a significant innovation in the field.
I am also particularly intrigued by this.
This is an example of one of metamorphosis’s key features—Looping. Despite the continuous repetition of the same elements, the animation manages to maintain the viewer’s interest. The smoothness of the transitions, coupled with the thoughtful selection and synchronization of sound and music, ensures that the viewer remains engaged and captivated, unable to look away from the screen.
Additionally, the clever inclusion of iconic characters—such as Hello Kitty, SpongeBob, Donald Duck, and Mickey Mouse—morphing into one another offers a satirical commentary on these widely recognized figures, highlighting their shared characteristics. As the transformations become more pronounced, the color scheme evolves from a muted black-and-white palette to a vibrant, colorful tone, further enhancing the dynamic nature of the animation.
Update for the Thesis Research
As part of my ongoing research, I have begun reviewing a selection of online essays and academic readings, along with books I have borrowed. Several of these sources provide valuable insights and align closely with my topic. I have compiled these materials into my research document, where they will be systematically organized for further analysis.
In addition to literary sources, I plan to conduct a structured study of animated films such as Toy Story, Inside Out, Coco, Monsters University, and Up. By rewatching these films, I aim to critically analyze their narrative structures, character development, and thematic elements. This process will allow me to collect primary data, enhancing the accuracy and depth of my research.
This dual approach—integrating scholarly literature with film analysis—will provide a well-rounded foundation for my study, enabling a comprehensive exploration of the topic.
This week’s lesson focused on scanning sculptures, artworks, and other accessible objects at Tate Modern using our mobile phones.
By scanning an object, we can create a 3D model, which can later be accessed and manipulated in various software applications. This technique simplifies the modeling process, making it more accessible for those who may not be familiar with traditional 3D modeling methods.
How to Scan
1.Record a Video
Ensure the video is slow and steady.
Make sure each new shot slightly overlaps with the previous angle.
Start filming from the top or bottom, spiraling in a smooth circular motion, and then reverse the direction in a similar spiraling pattern to create cross-sectional views.
Post-Processing Once you’ve recorded the video, upload it to the scanning app for processing.
Pros:
Faster Process: You don’t have to follow app-specific instructions, which can save time.
User-Friendly: Ideal for those who are new to 3D scanning and modeling.
Cons:
Potential Inaccuracy: Scanning may not be as precise as traditional methods.
Storage Concerns: Videos can take up significant storage space on your phone.
Reflections and Glass: Objects with reflective surfaces or sculptures enclosed in glass may not scan well or accurately.
2. AI Scanner App (Luma AI)
This app provides guidance on where to scan, which can help improve your results.
Pros:
Fast Results: Once you’ve finished scanning, the app quickly processes the video and generates a 3D model.
Automated Process: The app handles the post-processing automatically.
Cons:
Inconsistent Results: The quality of the final model can vary depending on the conditions and the object being scanned.
I have primarily revised the final camera angle to depict the balloon nearly colliding with the cactus, only to be saved by an external intervention, as opposed to simply having the balloon drop to the ground with someone retrieving it.
Additionally, I have made minor adjustments to the movement of the floating ball. Instead of following a straight diagonal path, it now rises initially before drifting toward the city.
To refine this, I conducted further research to better understand the mechanics of this shot.
Furthermore, I have adjusted the pacing of several scenes. In the previous version, many sequences, including the car scene and the balloon floating scene, progressed too rapidly. I have now slowed them down to create a more balanced flow.
Lastly, I have organized my project files by shot, ensuring that each individual shot is less cumbersome to work with when making edits or adding new elements.
Changes to be made
For clarity and to enhance audience comprehension, my tutor has recommended adding an additional shot following the current one, in which the balloon is shown floating towards the city.
As the previs progresses, I am required to incorporate more complexity and detail. Rather than using simple cubes with incorrect proportions, I will focus on creating a more realistic and polished environment.
I will be taking reference from the central park.
With regard to the balloon animation, several key aspects require attention:
Timing and Physics Considerations
Stretch and Squash Effects
Currently, the timing of the balloon’s floating motion feels off, and in certain scenes (such as when the car passes by), the balloon should be slightly displaced by the air particles created by the car’s movement. I had initially overlooked this aspect, but I plan to review reference materials and implement the necessary adjustments as I continue refining the animation.
Additionally, I will apply stretch and squash techniques to the balloon, especially when it passes over the car, in order to make the movement appear more dynamic and exaggerated.
Something like this.
For the final shot, I intend to adjust the camera angle slightly to enhance both the clarity and excitement of the scene. At present, it may benefit from a more pronounced zoom in and out, particularly when the balloon is about to be struck by the cactus.
A literature review is a fundamental component of academic writing, typically placed at the beginning of a paper. It serves to inform readers about the specific research that has been conducted on the topic and provides a comprehensive overview of existing literature. This section not only presents the context of the research but also demonstrates how the study fits into the broader field, offering valuable insights into the subject matter. In essence, the literature review serves as the foundation upon which the research is built.
Like most essays and scholarly articles, a literature review typically consists of the following sections:
Introduction
An introduction to the key theories and concepts relevant to the area of study or research interest.
Main Body
A structured organization of sources, starting from broader concepts and narrowing down to more specific aspects of the topic.
An identification of gaps or limitations in the existing research.
Conclusion
A concise summary of the review, illustrating how the existing literature informs and supports the research, while also highlighting areas for further investigation.
In summary, the literature review functions as a narrative of prior research, helping to organize the overall structure of the essay and guiding the direction of the new research.
Referencing
References
References play a crucial role in academic writing by allowing readers to trace the origin of sources and assess their credibility. It is essential to ensure that the references used in research are accurate and derived from primary sources, rather than secondary sources such as websites that merely quote the original material.
Several tools and websites are available to assist with proper referencing:
Additionally, when citing the names of films, video games, or similar works, they should be italicized. Furthermore, the first mention of a film or other significant work should include the name of the director and the year of release.
Research Topic Update
About the Topic:
Initially, my research topic was titled “Emotional Engagement and Visual Metaphors in Pixar’s Narrative Tropes: A Critical Analysis of Character Development and Audience Connection.” However, after discussing the topic with my tutor, he suggested that while the subject was promising, it might be more effective to frame it as a research question. Possible alternatives included questions such as “How do Pixar films promote emotional engagement?” or “How do Pixar films differentiate from other animated films?”
Based on this advice, I have decided to revise my research topic to: “What techniques do Pixar films use to promote emotional engagement, and how do they differ from other animation studios?”
Upon finalizing the topic, I will proceed with conducting research and begin drafting the literature review.
Establishes connections between characters and their environment.
Grounds the audience in the narrative and context.
Enhances the audience’s understanding of the unfolding story.
draws audiences in, making them feel almost like a character in the scene.
showing a house in the beginning each time of the show (eg. Simpson, Harry Potter)
This is an aspect I need to consider and develop further. As my animation currently lacks a specific style or iconic opening scene, it doesn’t stand out or make it easy for the audience to differentiate it from other animations. In the upcoming previs and animation, I will focus on addressing this to ensure my animation becomes unique and iconic.
Dark Knight
The character initially appears on the left side of the frame, followed by a shot where they are positioned on the right. The sequence concludes with a central shot, which emphasizes the significance of the key character.
The use of handheld camera work is prevalent throughout, enhancing the dynamic feel of the scene.
This technique helps guide the audience’s attention toward the main character or key focal point.
Directional lines, formed by elements such as buildings, lighting, and other visual cues, are strategically employed to direct the viewer’s gaze.
Although this is something I have learned previously, I did not fully apply it in my past storyboards and animations. Moving forward, I will pay closer attention to the placement of characters and props to create a more effective composition.
180 rule
The 180-degree rule dictates that, during a conversation between two characters, one must remain on the left side of the frame while the other stays on the right.
If either character shifts position, the other must mirror the movement to maintain the spatial relationship and prevent disorientation for the audience.
This consistency in positioning ensures a clear visual understanding of who is speaking, preserving the continuity of the scene.
Establishing Character
Characters
should be
compelling, nuanced, flawed, and active.
Let’s take the Joker as an example. He is undoubtedly not a good guy; he is an evil character with numerous flaws. However, it is precisely these flaws that make him appealing to the audience.
2. evoking emotions and make the audience want to know more.
Carl is a character who takes an unexpected action—attaching thousands of balloons to his house because he refuses to give up the memories of his late wife. This act resonates with the audience, reminding them of the things they cherish but may have had to let go of. At the same time, it sparks curiosity about what will happen next.
3. Considering their appearance and personality—are they shaped by past experiences
Tanjiro’s hands are notably rough, reflecting the immense effort he has put into training to slay demons as part of the Demon Slayer Corps, all in a desperate attempt to find a cure for his younger sister. This detail highlights his hardworking nature and his deep commitment as a protective brother.
Show, don’t tell—reveal traits through:
Props, clothing, gestures, actions, music, and lighting
I often find it challenging to convey a character’s personality solely through their acting, appearance, camera angles, and outfit without dialogue. I plan to conduct more research in this area to better express the traits of the character that I intend to convey.
My Previs Progress
Character Bio
I have developed character biographies for both the main and supporting characters to clarify their personalities, ensuring that their actions align with their backgrounds, experiences, and traits within the context of the animation. I have found it particularly useful to include a section detailing the events before and after the narrative (“Before/After”) to gain a deeper understanding of the characters’ mental states during the story.
Furthermore, through the process of writing the character biographies, I realized that I aimed to maintain a positive narrative tone, culminating in a happy ending
My tutor recommended that I consider the character design, specifically suggesting that the character’s tail retain a rounded shape rather than a long, wiggly one, in order to create a more cohesive and streamlined appearance in relation to the other characters.
Updated Previs
I also made adjustments to the previs and connected various shots. Currently, the sequence feels somewhat disjointed, with issues arising in the timing, transitions, and the overall connection between shots. Upon receiving feedback, I will make further modifications and refinements as necessary.
