Download and install stop motion animation software. All stop motion animation software works from the same basic principles. It functions much like a flip-book. The software enables you to take linear pictures of an object in various positions. It then puts them into a digital video file. When the video is played back, it gives the illusion of movement.
Set up your digital camera and hook it up to your computer. Depending on your type of camera, this may be done by either a USB connection or by a FireWire connection. Make sure you have read the instruction provided by your cameras manufacturer thoroughly. Many digital cameras require software installation.
Open the stop motion animation software. Some software requires that you locate your camera, while others locate it for you. If your software gives the warning "device not found," check the help section of the program for the instructions on properly syncing your camera to the software.
Position an object on a stable structure in front of your camera. Locate and click on the image capture button in your animation software. Some programs require you to choose your desired resolution and frame rate before you are able to capture an image, while others will automatically load default settings. Experiment with various resolutions and frame rates until you achieve the look you want.
Reposition your object to the next desired pose. Make sure that you do not accidentally move the camera. When repositioning, be sure to view your last captured image as a reference. If you move the object too much, the animation will be choppy. If you move it too little, the animation will appear as if in slow motion.
Continue to reposition your object and capture until the full desired movement is complete. Most stop motion animation software will allow you to play back animation of the images you have captured up to that point. Reviewing this animation will help you decide on the tempo or speed of which you want your object to move.
Export your session to video. Most stop motion animation software will allow you to choose the video type you desire. Others have what is called a native video encoder. That means that it will only export the video in one file type. Once you have exported your video, you are able to edit it in video editing software or upload it to the Internet to show the world what you can do.