Two-dimensional animation is created through a series of images quickly flashing through several frames a minute. Each image is slightly altered in each frame, as desired, so that when played in sequence, they result in seamless changes and gradual movements.
The 2D animation process is broken down into four parts: development, pre-production, production and post production. The development and pre-production phases focus on coming up with and fine-tuning the concept. The product is created during the production stage and the final touches and special effects done in post production.
Modern animators have gravitated away from drawing two-dimensional images on paper. A variety of computer software programs aid in the creation of 2D animation. Programs include: Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop and After Effects as well as Apple Motion and Macromedia Flash.
Two-dimensional animation is often used in advertising, animated movies and TV shows, video games, websites and computer programs.
2D animation employs artists, designers, special effects specialists, art directors, animators and more.