How to Make Animated Shows on the Computer

Development

• 1

  Create the characters and concept for the show. This includes everything from rough sketches through to final designs.

• 2

  Create model sheets for the main characters based on the final design. Model sheets show a character from three to four different sides and includes key poses and color palette.

• 3

  Outline story ideas or write the script. Outlining an episode allows the scripting to happen dynamically during the storyboard process.

• 4

  Create title cards for the episodes to be animated. These are the illustrations that include each episode's title and key credits which proceed an animated program.

• 5

  Create credits as a text graphic to be used during editing. This step is optional and depends on preference as text can be added in video editing programs.

Storyboard and Recording

• 6

  Create the storyboard for the show. This is a sequential layout of the show shot-by-shot and scene by scene.

• 7

  Include key actions and dialogue. This provides an idea of pacing for the animation.

• 8

  Record dialogue using audio software.

Model Characters and Props

• 9

  Create basic models for the characters used in the show. All major parts of a character must be modeled separately. This allows each character to be independently animated. Specific poses can be created as needed during animation to save time.

• 10

  Create phonemes. These are 10 different mouth positions used to represent parts of speech. Fewer can be used depending on the style and level of detail in the show. Depending on style, a single series of phonemes can be used for different characters.

• 11

  Model props and elements that are animated or with which characters interact.

Animation and Layout

• 12

  Create background and scene elements.

• 13

  Layout backgrounds and establish shots for scenes to be animated.

• 14

  Import dialogue and sound effects to be used during animation.

• 15

  Animate characters and record dialogue.

• 16

  Synchronize sound effects with action.

• 17

  Complete animation.

Editing and Composition

• 18

  Import all of the animation, any music, title card graphic and graphic credits if created by someone else, into the chosen video editing program.

• 19

  Layout and arrange all the elements on the timeline.

• 20

  Edit scenes as needed. Add scene transitions or any additional effects.

• 21

  Add credits to the end of the footage.

• 22

  Synchronize music samples to the footage. Edit as needed.

• 23

  Export the finished show into the desired format.