What are the 12 principles of animation

Animation has come a long way from the early days of hand-drawn sketches. Today, animators use computer programs to create stunning, lifelike visuals that capture the imagination of audiences around the world. But no matter how advanced the technology becomes, the fundamental principles of animation remain the same. 

In the 1930s, a group of animators known as the Nine Old Men created a set of principles that are still widely used today. These principles are designed to help animators create animations that are both believable and engaging.  The following video from Alan Becker explains the ideas really clearly:

Alan Becker’s tutorial on the 12 principles of animation.

The Principles 

In the 1930s, a group of animators known as the Nine Old Men created a set of principles that are still widely used today. These principles are designed to help animators create animations that are both believable and engaging. 

1. Squash and Stretch

Squash and stretch is perhaps the most fundamental principle of animation. It involves exaggerating the movement of an object or character to make it look more dynamic and realistic. By stretching objects or characters as they move, animators can create the illusion of weight and impact.

2. Anticipation

Anticipation is the principle of preparing the viewer for an action or movement before it happens. This can be achieved through a number of techniques, such as a character moving their arm back before throwing a punch. Anticipation helps to make movements more believable and can add to the overall impact of an action.

3. Staging

Staging is the process of presenting an idea or action in a clear and easy-to-understand way. This can be achieved through the use of camera angles, lighting, and composition. Effective staging helps to direct the viewer’s attention and can add to the overall impact of an animation.

4. Straight Ahead Action and Pose to Pose

Straight ahead action involves animating a scene frame by frame, in a linear fashion. This technique is often used for fast-paced, action-packed scenes. Pose to pose, on the other hand, involves planning out key poses before filling in the details. This technique is often used for slower, more deliberate scenes.

5. Follow Through and Overlapping Action

Follow through involves the movement of an object or character continuing after the initial action has ended. Overlapping action involves different parts of an object or character moving at different times. These principles help to add to the natural feel of movement and make animations look more realistic.

6. Slow In and Slow Out

Slow in and slow out involves easing objects or characters into and out of movements. This helps to make movements look more natural and less robotic. By slowing down the movement at the start and end of an action, animators can create the illusion of weight and momentum.

7. Arcs

Arcs involve the movement of an object or character in a curved path. This principle helps to make movements look more natural and less stiff. By following an arc, animators can create the illusion of natural movement.

8. Secondary Action

Secondary action involves the movement of objects or characters that are not the primary focus of the scene. This can add depth and complexity to an animation and help to make it look more believable.

9. Timing

Timing is the principle of determining how long an action takes to complete. This can be used to create a sense of urgency or to slow down a scene for dramatic effect. By carefully controlling the timing of movements, animators can create a more engaging animation.

10. Exaggeration

Exaggeration involves taking movements or actions to an extreme level. This can add drama and impact to a scene and make it more memorable. By exaggerating certain movements or expressions, animators can create more engaging animation.

11. Solid Drawing

Solid drawing involves creating characters and objects with a sense of three-dimensionality. This can be achieved through careful use of shading, texture, and perspective. Solid drawing helps to make animations look more realistic and engaging.

12. Appeal

Appeal is the principle of making characters and objects visually appealing. It’s all about creating a clear visual design that will get the audience hooked and interested.

Our sister company Chocolate Films has a talented team of motion graphic designers. Take a look at some of the incredible animations they’ve created.

Want to create one yourself? Book one of our Animation Workshops today!