MOTION GRAPHIC AND COMPOSITING / PROJECT 1 - TECHNICAL AND MOTION GRAPHICS SENSIBILITIES

25/04/2024 - 25/07/2024 / Week 1- Week 14
Chew Zhi Ern / 0358995
Motion Graphic and Compositing / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylor's University
Project 1 / Technical And Motion Graphics Sensibilities

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INSTRUCTIONS

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LECTURES

Lectures: Refer to Exercises

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PROJECT

PROJECT 1: TECHNICAL AND MOTION GRAPHICS SENSIBILITIES

In Project 1, we focus on enhancing our motion graphics skills by animating using Adobe After Effects. Each student will individually re-create animations based on the principles of form and design, using the provided template. For Part 1, we will choose 4 out of 8 principles to animate, resulting in an 8-second video, and for Part 2, we will animate a selection (not necessarily all) of these principles, compiling them into a 16-second video with audio. Both parts will be submitted as YouTube links in Quicktime (.MOV) or (.MP4) format at a resolution of 1280 x 720 (HDTV) and 25fps.

After Effects Template File

For Part 1 of Project 1, I began by downloading the provided template from Mr. Fauzi. Then, I carefully studied the template to understand the basics of the animation principles it presented. From the eight available principles of form and design, I selected four to reanimate, which are balance, direction, symmetry and scale. I focused on key elements such as size, rotation, and opacity.

Figure 1.1 Balance

Figure 1.2 Direction

Figure 1.3 Symmetry

Figure 1.4 Scale

Using Adobe After Effects, I recreated the animations for these selected principles, applying the techniques and sensibilities I've learned. Each animation was rendered with a resolution of 1280 x 720 (HDTV) at 25fps, with a duration of 8 seconds, and saved in either Quicktime (.MOV) or (.MP4) format. After rendering, I uploaded the animations to YouTube and prepared the links for submission.

Figure 1.5 Youtube Link

Moving forward to the Part 2, I selected additional principles to animate. I chose a variety to showcase a broad range of techniques. I animated these principles, ensuring they flowed well together in a single clip, which required careful planning to maintain visual consistency and smooth transitions. To enhance the motion tempo, I selected appropriate audio to accompany the compiled animations. The final compilation was rendered with the same settings as Part 1, a resolution of 1280 x 720 (HDTV), 25fps, and a duration of 16 seconds, saved in Quicktime (.MOV) or (.MP4) format. Finally, I uploaded the compiled animation to YouTube.

Figure 2.1 Work In Progress

Figure 2.2 Youtube Link

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REFLECTIONS

Experience:

Engaging with Project 1, which focused on Technical and Motion Graphics Sensibilities, has been a rewarding and enlightening experience. From the outset, I was excited about the opportunity to enhance my technical proficiency and deepen my understanding of motion graphics. The project required me to explore various tasks, from basic to advanced, which not only tested my skills but also expanded my creative horizons. Starting with the basics, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The initial tasks involved reanimating basic principles of form and design, which served as a solid foundation. As I progressed to more advanced tasks, I found myself increasingly comfortable with the software and more confident in my ability to create sophisticated animations. The support from Mr. Fauzi was invaluable.

Observations:

Throughout this project, several key observations stood out. Firstly, the importance of mastering the basics cannot be overstated. Reanimating the basic principles of form and design highlighted how fundamental concepts such as balance, contrast, and rhythm are crucial to creating compelling motion graphics. Each principle played a vital role in the overall effectiveness of the animation, reinforcing the need for a strong foundation. Secondly, I observed that technical proficiency in the appropriate software is essential but not sufficient on its own. Creativity and an eye for design are equally important. The tasks challenged me to think beyond the technical aspects and focus on how to effectively communicate ideas through motion. This blend of technical skills and creative thinking is what truly brings motion graphics to life.

Findings:

The journey through Project 1 has been both challenging and enlightening, leading to several important findings. Firstly, I have gained a deeper understanding of the principles of form and design and how they apply to motion graphics. This knowledge has enhanced my ability to create animations that are not only technically proficient but also visually compelling and communicative. Also, I have realized the importance of continuous practice and exploration. The tasks required me to push the boundaries of my current skills and experiment with new techniques. This iterative process of practice, feedback, and refinement is crucial for ongoing improvement and mastery.