Animation

I often create an ‘animated gif’ version of my images as they get more of a response than the static image. I keep them around 20 frames and try to create a loop. The only reason for this is to keep the exported gif under 3mb – a requirement for tumblr. I sometimes use traditional keyframe animation, within Hexels timeline mode, by drawing and modifying each individual cel. It was only after a great reading a ‘bouncing ball’ tutorial, by Ken Kopecky, that I learnt that I could animate by transforming a layer, at different points along the timeline, and have the software generate the ‘in between’ frames for ultra smooth movement. The animation suite has changed so much within the past 3 months to the point where it gives me the confidence to try something new each time. My most recent (Friday 13th) picture has a realistic water reflection effect that was very easy to create and took only a few minutes to set up the animation. I have been planning a short animated film entirely in Hexels and I may start that this year (if my outdated Mac mini can handle it).