Chapter 5 Animation Elements

Multimedia Communications by Marie Rutherford

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Please visit the web version of Multimedia Communications (https://ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub/multimediacomm/) to access the complete book, interactive activities and ancillary resources.

Learning Outcomes

  • Review principles of animation and its effective use in multimedia communication
  • Explain how animation works considering common methods of development
  • Explore computer generated animation
  • Practice and Apply
  • Key Terms and References

 

Animation and Multimedia

Animation is described as the act of making inanimate objects move or appear to move. Going further, animation is a process that brings still images to life by creating the illusion of movement. Animation can add interest, emphasize points, and guide the audience’s attention throughout an presentation. While animations can make a presentation more engaging, they must be used with a level of caution as complex animations can distract the audience, complicate the message, and look unprofessional. This uses a concept called persistence of vision, whereby the brain retain an image for a fraction of a second longer than the eye sees it.

Types of Animation

There are several types of animation, each with its unique techniques and applications:

  1. Traditional Animation: Also known as cel animation, this involves drawing each frame by hand.
  2. 2D Animation: This can be traditional or vector-based, where images are created using computer software.
  3. 3D Animation: Utilizes computer software to create characters and environments in three dimensions.
  4. Stop Motion: Involves photographing physical objects frame by frame to create the illusion of movement.
  5. Motion Graphics: Often used in multimedia projects, these are digital graphics that create the illusion of motion, typically used in advertising and title sequences

Use of Animation in Multimedia

Animation plays an important role in multimedia, enhancing the visual appeal and effectiveness of presentations, websites, and educational content. Here are some key uses:

  • Education: Animated videos can simplify complex concepts, making them easier to understand and more engaging for students.
  • Entertainment: From movies and TV shows to video games, animation is a cornerstone of the entertainment industry.
  • Advertising: Animated ads can capture attention more effectively than static images, making them a popular choice for marketers.
  • Web Design: Animation enhance the user experience through supporting a more interactive approach.
This chapter explores the inclusion and development of animation and how it is utilized in multimedia presentations.

Chapter Organization and Preview

Attribution & References

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