The 12 Principles of Animation _ Animated (A memory aid)

The 12 Principles of Animation

 

The 12 principles of animation where first talked about by 2 of Disney’s Animators in 1981. Ollie Johnston & Frank Thomas laid down these principles in their book “The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation”. This in turn was based on the work of Disney’s top animators from the 1930’s onwards, who strived to bring more realistic and believable animations to the screens.

 

In the book the philosophy of animation is expressed through these 12 principles. They are often referred to as the “Bible of Animation”, due to the biblical link to the number 12, e.g. the 12 tribes of Israel, the 12 apostles and the 12 stones of the foundation.

 

Following these 12 principles will always set you off on the right foot when animating:

 

1. Squash and stretch – Gives weight & flexibility;

2. Anticipation – Prepares the audience for what is to come;

3. Staging – Directs the audience’s attention;

4. Straight Ahead Action and Pose to Pose – Creates impulsive action;

5. Follow Through and Overlapping Action – Reactive animation after an action;

6. Slow In and Slow Out – Used to soften the action making it more life like;

7. Arcs – makes a character look less robotic;

8. Secondary Action – Add to main action to give a scene more life;

9. Timing – Used to control the speed (smooth or crisp) of the action;

10. Exaggeration – Enhances the essence of an action;

11. Solid Drawing – Using the appropriate weight, depth and balance; &

12. Appeal – Creation of a well drawn and developed character.

 

There are no justifiable short cuts when animating. These principle need to be learnt and understood and followed to the nth degree any time you are drawing.

 

The 12 Principles of Animation : Animated (A memory aid):-

 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqGL1ZLk3n8

 

Done