Computer Editing: Introduction to Computer Animation (page 2)

Add Another Dimension to the Fun

The real pinnacle of animation is 3D. However, it's only slightly easier than brain surgery, so don't expect to master it immediately. Just one peek at the interface has made many artists swoon on the spot. But 3D is a place where computers have made massive contributions: saving labor, increasing realism and pushing the creative envelope.

3D animation is so powerful, it is destined to dominate animation if it hasn't already. Look at Toy Story, A Bug's Life, Dinosaur, Shrek, Final Fantasy and Monsters, Inc. They are obviously 3D, but the more interesting tidbit is that even traditional 2D animations like Lion King, Aladdin and Hercules are often inspired or directly computed by 3D animation software.

All the animation studios agree: 3D is in. It's not that 2D is out, it's just that 3D, for all its complexity, can be faster, easier and more useful than 2D.

It has always been a notorious bear to create animation. That's still true, but programs like Discreet's 3d Studio Max, Alias|Wavefront's Maya and NewTek's LightWave allow you to create creatures and worlds that you can then photograph from a zillion different perspectives. That means that a single 3D model can give rise to hours of animation. Try that on your hand-drawn cels!

Just as with 2D animation, the easiest way to start with 3D is with a titling program. Here again, you can achieve masterful results just by typing. Programs like Crystal 3D Impact! Pro from CrystalGraphics or Ulead's COOL 3D can get you up and running in no time, at a fraction of the price of the 3D powerhouses listed above. It's a great way to get started with animation, especially 3D animation.

And So?

So, what are you waiting for? These programs are wonderful, and if you haven't played with one of them yet, you're really missing out. Computer animation is a whole new world, and your video will never be the same once you find out how easy it can be. Don't expect Monsters, Inc. on your first time out, but even an hour spent with a good 3D-titling program can give you some killer results.