Stop-Motion: Getting Started

1. Storyboarding● To create a successful animation, it’s

important to have a good plan.

● Animators, filmmakers, and all types of artists use storyboards to plan a visual story.

● A great storyboard doesn’t have to be incredibly detailed, but you DO need enough detail to clearly read and understand your own plan.

● Draw a few squares, and sketch some ideas!

2. Prepare your materials● Think outside the box: you can make an animation with almost

anything, as the music video to the right illustrates!

● Stop-motion and time-lapse require your undivided attention, so it’s important to have all your materials completed, organized, and ready before you plan to film.

● Put thought into your characters, what makes them unique?

● Take your time creating all the elements for your film, these are your “actors” and they should look GOOOOOD! If your elements are simple, make sure to take extra care in making them perfect!

● If you work in multiple sessions, make a note of all your materials and clean them up neatly to use next session.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suNVb3kQaUM#t=53

3. Set your stage● Check the background: is it complete

and free from distracting elements?

● Check your lighting: is everything well-lit and bright, without glare, shadows or reflections?

● Is your camera/computer/ipad mounted in a way that is stable and does not wobble?

● Are you filming in a space where you will not be interrupted?

4. Understand your tech● We will be using the Koma Koma app, but there are many more

options.

● You can use a digital camera & tripod and speed up your photos using a computer just like you would with a flip-book!

● Work gradually and watch out for shadows! Watch this tutorial to see the process.

● Use the “Onion Skinning” effect which shows a “ghost” of the last frame taken to make sure you only create tiny gradual changes in the filming process.

● If you’re working with a partner, decide who will be moving objects and who will be operating tech, then communicate to keep the process positive and productive!

● Give your project a title that includes your name and SAVE YOUR WORK!

5. Stop-Motion Special Effects● Replace/alter objects between frames to

magically change them.

● Use a green screen to add a background

● Make objects “fly” by having them lay flat on a horizontal background surface and film from above!

● What special effects can you create using things you find around the house or classroom?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBjLW5_dGAM