#Stage 5
Animation Production
Composition
While drawing the background, we make sure we also draw the rough sketch of the shot as well, in this way, we can understand how the scene will look like in the final animation. In addition. we can work more conveniently and at the same time as well.
Animation Testing
Character Testing 1
We try to combine the backgrounds and the character and animated some movement in order to see if they combine nicely or not.
We received some comments from our tutor that the character lack some textures and shadings, we explained that we only wanted to test out the movement. Still, we were suggested to test everything at once in order to see how the final result will be like. Then, we took the advice and trying to add more shadings and texture to the character.
Scene Testing 1
Meanwhile, we were thinking about the scene animations, which mainly included water movement and particles.
Since our animation is flat and 2D, which means hand-drawn VFX will be more suitable for our style. But we tried to use 3D software to create a more 2D look to see if it works or not.
The movement is not natural and moving too fast for the quiet scene, we need to adjust the tempo and the rhythm of the motion. It also lacks texture and noise as the character testing 1.
Scene Testing 2
We tried to animate the wave for the second time, particles were added to see if it creates a completed view. However,we found that it was still not suitable for our animation, since we do not have much knowledge with the complicated 3D software which leads to many out-of-controlnesses.
After many tries, the water still can't meet our wants. Either it moves too fast, or it lacks s sense of mystery. We will try to create it again either with a more realistic texture and more natural and clam motion, or with After Effect for more controlness.
Color Adjustment
We use the original color of Luna and Selene to make the character in Photoshop.
In order to match the color tone in the background with the character, we then applied multiple filters and effects in After Effect.
Animation Composition
After we finish drawing the backgrounds, we apply the 3D layer in After Effect in order to create a depth of field and dimension. It also allows us to focus on certain objects.
We apply this method to most of the scenes in the first part of the animation since we want to create a mysterious, quiet and spacious feeling.
After we completed the drawing animations, we input the animations in to After Effect and final render the animations.
We then use Audition to combine the sound and music that we created in the animatics and do some adjustments in some minor areas.