The Power of Plasticene- Summary

 Stop-frame animation appears as a continuous piece of footage. However, it is actually a series of snapshots taken one after the other. A video camera will take on average 25 of these snapshots per second. When played back, these snapshots appear to the human eye as continuous motion. If you capture a large number of frames, having Mae tiny incremental changes to your object each time, the resulting animation will appear as smooth motion. Capturing a smaller number of frames and making larger incremental changes in your object will result in a jerkier animation. 

To create a stop-motion, you will need a tripod and a digital video camera. You need a computer to connect to this camera. Some major software platforms include Stop Motion Pro and iStopMotion. Also it is important to get video editing software such as Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Express which will allow you to edit and further manipulate your animated footage. You also need a constant light source. 

To create a character, you can use lego, cloth, cardboard, crushed cans or plastic bottles. For a set, you can use a ready made background or you can make/build your own set. You could also use a green screen and then insert an image. 

THE PRODUCTION PROCESS. 

1) learn patience! a few minutes of footage could take hours to complete 

2) create an idea

3) create your characters and sets

4) script and storyboard your ideas

5) capture footage 

6) post-production