We’ve witnessed the presence of 3D animation across various mediums such as films, video games, commercials, and TV shows. Originating from experimental beginnings in the 1960s, it didn’t gain widespread popularity until the release of Toy Story in 1995. Presently, 3D animation has evolved into a pervasive and continually growing field, characterized by intense competition. For those aspiring to pursue it as a career, the initial inquiry often revolves around the process of creating 3D animation and where to begin.
How to make a 3D animation in 11 steps
Table of Content:
1. Concept
The concept serves as the foundational idea or plotline of a creative work. Pixar and similar companies dedicate considerable time—up to two years—ensuring the script’s precision before initiating any visual development. This meticulous approach has been key to their achievements, prioritizing story refinement prior to production commencement. Unlike live-action filmmaking, alterations to the narrative during animation production could incur significant budgetary repercussions and disrupt the project’s progress.
2. Storyboarding
After the script is completed, it undergoes pre-visualization through storyboarding, where each scene is depicted by a storyboard artist. These sketches illustrate character movements, shot choices, action sequences, and cinematic cues, serving as a crucial blueprint to direct the production process.
3. 3D Modeling
Modeling involves building objects and characters by mathematically representing all their components. Basic shapes like cubes, spheres, or planes are crafted using vertices, which are points in virtual space, to create a mesh using software such as Autodesk Maya, Z-Brush, and Blender. These points are then placed on a 3D grid and transformed into three-dimensional objects through rendering.
4. Texturing
After the creation of the 3D object, it proceeds to the texturing stage, where the outer layer of the object is defined. This may entail applying skin, clothing, or hair textures for characters; metallic finishes for vehicles or machinery; brick patterns for structures; fur for animals, and so forth. Within a studio setting, teams of texture artists specialize in this particular phase of the production process.
5. Rigging and skinning
Rigging involves establishing the skeletal structure of the animation, providing the foundation for realistic movement. Character rigs enable the articulation of joints and movable components to facilitate believable motion. Riggers are responsible for constructing these functional skeletons in 3D animation projects.
Following rigging is skinning, a process that involves refining the joints to create a smoother appearance, akin to applying skin over the underlying mechanics of the object.
6. Animation
This phase involves animating the entire storyboard to bring the script to life. After constructing your 3D character or object from scratch, you can animate them through a sequence of movements or within a scene, typically utilizing software like Maya. You might wonder whether drawing skills are necessary for 3D animators. Given the technical nature of 3D animation compared to 2D, artists may not require advanced drawing abilities, although having them can be advantageous.
Initially, an animated scene is roughly outlined before the actions are refined. Once this initial blocking is approved, a 3D animator typically undergoes several stages of review before the animation can be considered “final.” To explore other forms of animation, check out our blog on the top 6 animation types.
7. Rendering
Rendering, also known as image synthesis, involves producing the 3D animation using a graphics processing unit (GPU). This process entails inputting the render equation into the software, which then generates a full animated sequence. Throughout this stage, various elements such as shading, texture mapping, shadows, reflection, translucency, depth of field, and motion blur are incorporated into the sequence.
8. Compositing & VFX
To create the final animation, multiple render passes must be merged together in a process known as compositing. This involves refining aspects like lighting, shading, and colors by layering various elements onto a single image or sequence of images. VFX compositors utilize software like Nuke to integrate live-action plates, 2D elements, and any computer-generated content, such as animation and special effects. Compositing serves as the concluding stage in the visual effects pipeline.
9. Music & foley
In a sound studio, all audio components of animation are crafted, including the recording of the score, musical elements, and additional embellishments necessary for the animation. The music is synchronized to align with and enhance the visual elements. Foley involves creating all necessary sound effects for the project. Once these audio elements are completed, they undergo editing and mixing to ensure synchronization with the on-screen action.
10. Editing
Despite being meticulously storyboarded, animation still requires editing to adjust the timing of sequences, transition between scenes, and finalize the sound editing.
11. Final output
After all components have been animated, rendered, and perfected, it’s time for the final rendering. Once production concludes and all final touches are applied, the render process is initiated, signaling the completion of the animation with no room for further alterations.
How to start your 3D animation career
The procedure outlined above details the steps involved in creating 3D animation on a large scale, necessitating the collaboration of numerous artists, both specialists and generalists. If this appeals to you, you can embark on creating your own small-scale animations. As the director of a mini version of this process, begin by crafting your script. Define your characters and storyline, whether it’s a brief scene or scenario. Practice conveying your narrative through visuals, sound, character development, and dialogue.
While there are various 3D animation service platforms available, Maya stands out as the industry standard. You can kickstart your journey by self-learning and experimenting with 3D animation. However, mastering the intricacies of the genre can be challenging as you strive to produce increasingly sophisticated work.
In conclusion, the process of creating captivating 3D animation is a meticulous journey that involves various stages, from concept development to final rendering. Collaboration among specialists and generalists is essential for delivering professional 3D animation services that meet industry standards. Whether you’re a beginner exploring self-learning or part of an industrial-scale production team, navigating the complexities of 3D animation services requires dedication and creativity. Seeking assistance from reputable 3D animation service providers is crucial for ensuring quality results. With access to industry-standard tools like Maya, individuals can embark on their animation journey, guided by experienced professionals in the realm of Industrial 3D animation services.
Contact us today to begin your journey into the world of 3D animation.