Have you ever wondered how they come to life the characters of your favorite movies? The animation is an art and a technique that allows us to create completely new worlds, exciting stories and unforgettable characters, this in the world of video games and video is a bomb. It is a magical way of giving life to things that only exist in our imagination!
The animation is the art of creating the illusion of movement by a rapid sequence of still images, known as frames . Each frame represents a fraction of the movement that, when played back in a continuous manner, resulting in a fluid animation.
The number of frames per second ( FPS , for its acronym in English) is a key aspect of this process. For example:
- 12 FPS: Was the rate used in the first animation classic, enough to transmit motion, although with a certain stiffness.
- 24 FPS: it Is the standard in most of the animated movies and live-action, since the human eye perceives this rhythm as a natural movement.
- 60 FPS or more: it Is used in animations and modern video games to experience ultra-smooth, especially in contexts interactive.
Every second of animation it may require 24 individual frames , which means that a full minute means to 1,440 unique images . This gives you an idea of the immense work behind each project is lively, especially in traditional techniques such as hand drawing, where each frame should be created meticulously.
In simpler words, the animation makes ideas that static in a dynamic, allowing you to tell stories that break the barriers of time, space, and reality.
According to Wikipedia , the ‘animation is a technique that gives the feeling of movement to images or static drawings by the continuous projection of these over a period of time.’
Animation process
This process, although it seems simple, it is extremely technical and artistic. For example, the animators must take care of details such as the motion tween , the persistence visual of the human eye and the principles of timing and spacing , which determines how an object accelerates or decelerates between frames. Each of these elements contributes to the movement to be compelling and emotionally powerful.
A brief history of the animation
The animation has deep roots, which go back much farther back than you might imagine.
The first steps
The history of animation starts with optical toys of the NINETEENTH century, such as the thaumatrope and the zoetrope, which created the illusion of movement.
However, it was not until 1908 when it came to what is considered the first animation film: ‘Fantasmagorie’, a short French created by Émile Cohl.
The golden era of Disney
In 1928, Walt Disney revolutionized the world with ‘Steamboat Willie’, the first animated short with synchronized sound, featuring the world-famous Mickey Mouse. This was a milestone that marked the beginning of animation as a medium of mass entertainment.
The digital revolution
The technological advancement in the last decades completely transformed the animation. In 1995, Pixar released ‘Toy Story’, the first film animated entirely by computer, marking a before and an after in the industry.
The animation in 2024-2025
Today, the animation continues to break boundaries. Movies like ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ (2023) have raised the bar with styles visual innovators who blend traditional techniques and digital. In addition, platforms like Netflix and Disney+ continue to produce animated content of high quality, consolidating the animation as a medium is fundamental in the popular culture.
Types of animation
The animation is not just a technique; it is a world full of possibilities. Here are the main types:
1. Traditional animation
Also known as 2D animation, is the classic technique that consists of drawing each frame by hand. Movies like ‘The little Mermaid’ and ‘The Lion King’ are examples iconic of this style.
- Advantage: feels handmade and personal.
- Challenge: it Is extremely labor-intensive; it requires thousands of designs to create a few minutes of action.
2. Computer animation (CGI)
It is the most commonly used today. Uses graphics generated by computer to create three-dimensional images. Notable examples are ‘Shrek’ and ‘Frozen’.
- Advantage: Allows you to create worlds amazingly realistic or completely fantastic.
- Challenge: Requires advanced knowledge of software and hardware.
3. Stop motion
It is based on photographing physical objects, moving them slightly between each shot. Movies like ‘The weird world of Jack’ and ‘Kubo and the search for a samurai’ use this technique.
- Advantage: Creates a unique effect and handmade.
- Challenge: it Is very slow, each second can take 24 photos.
4. Experimental animation
Explore non-conventional techniques, such as sand, paint, or mixed materials. It is popular in films artistic and independent film festivals.
The departments behind the magic: essential complements of the animation
The animation is not only the work of the animators; Behind each project there is a multidisciplinary team that brings their talents to enrich the emotional and visual experience. Some of the key departments include:
- Visual effects (VFX):
The visual effects artists are responsible for adding elements such as explosions, particles, fog, water, and other effects that enhance the visual impact of the animation. For example, in a scene of battle, the rays that emit a spell or the destruction of a building tend to be created by this team. Your work ensures that every detail will look spectacular and compelling.
- Sound effects:
The sound team creates and edits auditory effects that accompany the animation. From the noise of footsteps in the snow up to the roar of a dragon, the sound effects complement the narrative and enhance the immersion of the viewer. For example, in an animation of science fiction, the ‘hum’ of a spacecraft not only complement the action, but also create a unique atmosphere.
- Design-music:
The soundtrack is critical to evoke emotions in the viewer. The composers work closely with the animators to synchronize the music with the key moments, such as scenes emotional or action. A classic example is the music that accompanies Simba ascending the rock of the king in The Lion King , an epic moment that it would not be the same without the musical accompaniment.
Each department provides its essence, and together they make a animation to be more than images on the move: become a complete sensory experience.
The importance of the retention of a visual animation.
The retention visual is the ability of an animation to capture and keep the attention of the viewer, recording in his mind images memorable and emotions. This factor is crucial, especially in a world where the contents are competing fiercely to attract the gaze of the public.
How is it achieved a high retention visual?
- Eye-catching designs: The characters and scenarios with vibrant colors and unique shapes highlights and remain recorded in the memory of the viewer.
- Visual narrative is clear: An animation with flowing movements, sequences are well structured and a focus on details ensures that the public understand and enjoy each and every scene.
- Synchronization of elements: The combination of sound, music and visual effects must be perfectly synchronized to create an experience of emotionally shocking.
For example, in the animated Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse , the colors, the style of the comic and the sound effects are so well designed that every picture looks like a work of art in itself. This type of animation allows the viewer to remember specific scenes even after the movie has finished.
The retention visual is not only a question of aesthetics, but of how a story, along with its design and execution, it can resonate deeply in the viewer.
Why is the animation revolutionized everything?
The animation not only transformed the entertainment industry, but also the way we communicate complex ideas. Thanks to her, we can:
- Educate: The animation makes it more accessible difficult concepts, as well as in the educational videos.
- Inspire: Stories such as ‘Up’ or ‘spirited away’ will touch millions.
- Innovate: From video games to medical simulation, the animation is present in various areas.
In addition, she broke cultural barriers, making characters from all parts of the world to be recognized and loved globally.
How to make an animation?
Creating an animation is a complex process that combines creativity and technology. Here’s a closer look:
- Idea and script: it All starts with a story.
- Storyboard: create sketches that represent the key scenes.
- Design of characters and scenarios: Artists visualize how you will look the elements of the animation.
- Animation: produces movement, frame by frame, using specific techniques depending on the style.
- Editing and postproduction: add special effects, music, and sound to Polish the final product.
An environment in constant evolution
The animation continues to advance by leaps and bounds. With technologies such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality, the possibilities are endless. Who knows what wonders we will see in 2025!
If anything is unclear, is that the animation not only allows us to dream, but also to make those dreams come true.
