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How to Make Stop Motion Videos

Stop motion videos are forms of animation that rely on a person moving the object from one spot to another. One must take pictures through every moment of the process. The photographs are later put together. This creates a sequence of action. It is a very time consuming process, but it is quite entertaining when done well. Here is how you can make stop motion videos that will be well worth your time.

Things You'll Need

  • Digital Camera
  • Video Editing Software
  • Music
  • Lighting Equipment
  • Clay Figures
  • Tripod
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide what kind of stop motion video you want to make. Stop motion animation can be done with clay figures that you mold and create. You can then shift these figures with simple molding and modeling techniques. You can alternatively use figurines such as Legos, Barbie dolls or G.I. Joe figurines.

    • 2

      Develop a storyline or sequence of events. Practice the sequence several times. Run through the entire thing until you think you have worked out any potential problems, and it is a good idea to practice so that you have the actions memorized. Take notes as you go for reference.

    • 3

      Set up the tripod and camera in place. Take a practice photograph to make sure it is positioned correctly.

    • 4

      Place your figurines or modeled clay creatures in their first or starting position. Take your first photo. Check the picture on the digital display screen to ensure it is what you want. Shift the pose of your subjects ever so slightly. Take another photo. Shift the poses again ever so slightly. Take another photo. Continue this process until you have gotten through your entire sequence or movie. It will take quite a while. Keep the big picture in mind while doing so because it is going to be worth it in the end.

    • 5

      Download all the photos in order to your computer. Open your video editing software. Import the photos into this software. You want to make sure that they stay in the order they were taken.

    • 6

      Place the photos on your work bar in the order they were shot. Shorten the photos so they are all the same length but under a second long when displayed back for viewing. Continue until all the clips are shortened and pressed together. Preview the video sequence before continuing.

    • 7

      Add in background music, and render the tracks.

    • 8

      Export the video. Save the movie to your computer and an external hard drive for added protection.

    • 9

      Post your movie on the internet or burn to a DVD. Have fun sharing your video with friends, family and the rest of the world.

Film Production

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