TGJ2O_animating_theory_advanced

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=Advanced Animation Theory=

Having referred advanced theory to some degree in the previous page (basic animation theory), let's look at advanced theory a little closer. Using Flash, we can make far more complex animations.

Objects
We see on the __left__ that an object is made of several basic parts (__right__). Bear in mind that if we intend to animate a complex object we really should, as a matter of best practices, __separate the objects across multiple layers__. This allows us to manipulate the object on that layer without worrying about ruining other sub-sections of our object (e.g. you can apply flash effects to the left hand, separately from the right eye).

Motion
In portraying realistic motion in space, we need to consider how an object appears to move in an animation. Ignoring movement of the sub-components of the body/object, we typically see either motion of the object across the stage, __**or**__ motion of the background behind the object (or sometimes both over time. Because we're working with a 2D environment, we need to also consider other methods of realistically portraying motion and emotional content to the animation. Usually this is achieved by __changing the object's size and location__ (which is used in lieu of the ability to zoom using a camera lens) and the proportions of an object on the stage. Finally, using shading, characteristic marks and/or perspective can give us the illusion of 3 dimensions (if that's what we're going for).

Exercise:
Using basic flash tools (pencil, brush, pentool) and 'keyframing', create a complex shape (figure - it can be a person, an animal, an object) that performs an action for 15 seconds. You will export the final product as yourname_complex_animation.swf