ssgのブログ

At SSG News Blog, we are dedicated to bringing you the latest and most relevant news

How to Animate: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Pros

How to Animate: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Pros


Meta Description: Learn how to animate from scratch with our step-by-step guide. Discover tools, techniques, and tips to create stunning animations for films, games, or social media.


Keywords: how to animate, animation tutorial, learn animation, animation software, beginner animation, 2D animation, 3D animation, character animation, motion graphics, animation process



How to Animate: A Step-by-Step Guide for Aspiring Animators

Animation has become one of the most powerful storytelling mediums in the modern world. From blockbuster movies to engaging social media content, animation plays a vital role in entertainment, marketing, education, and more. If you've ever wondered how to animate , this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from the basics to advanced techniques.


Whether you're an aspiring animator, a digital artist looking to expand your skills, or simply curious about the art form, this article will give you the foundation to start animating confidently.


Table of Contents

What is Animation?

Types of Animation

2D Animation

3D Animation

Stop-Motion Animation

Motion Graphics

The Basic Principles of Animation

Tools You Need to Start Animating

Step-by-Step Process: How to Animate

Learning Resources and Courses

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Tips to Improve Your Animation Skills

Career Opportunities in Animation

Conclusion

1.What is Animation?

Animation is the process of creating the illusion of movement by displaying a series of still images in rapid succession. Each image differs slightly from the previous one, tricking the human eye into perceiving motion. This technique has been used for over a century and continues to evolve with new technologies and creative applications.


2. Types of Animation

There are several types of animation, each with its own style, tools, and production process. Understanding these can help you choose the right path based on your interests and goals.


2D Animation

Two-dimensional animation involves drawing characters and environments frame by frame. It's commonly used in cartoons, web series, and explainer videos. Popular examples include classic Disney films and modern shows like Adventure Time .


Tools: Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, TVPaint


3D Animation

Three-dimensional animation uses computer-generated models that can be moved in a virtual space. It's widely used in feature films (Toy Story , Frozen ), video games, and VR experiences.


Tools: Blender, Autodesk Maya, Cinema 4D, 3ds Max


Stop-Motion Animation

This type of animation uses physical objects, such as puppets or clay figures, which are moved incrementally between individually photographed frames. Films like Coraline and Wallace & Gromit are iconic examples.


Tools: Dragonframe, iStopMotion, DSLR cameras, lighting equipment


Motion Graphics

Motion graphics focus on animated graphic design elements, often used in commercials, title sequences, and user interface animations. They combine text, shapes, and effects with motion.


Tools: Adobe After Effects, Apple Motion, DaVinci Resolve



3. The Basic Principles of Animation

Understanding the 12 principles of animation, developed by Disney animators Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas, is essential for anyone learning how to animate. These principles apply across all animation styles:


Squash and Stretch – Gives weight and flexibility to objects.

Anticipation – Prepares the audience for an action.

Staging – Presents an idea clearly.

Straight Ahead Action and Pose-to-Pose – Two different approaches to drawing animation.

Follow Through and Overlapping Action – Adds realism to movement.

Slow In and Slow Out – Objects take time to accelerate and decelerate.

Arcs – Most natural actions follow curved paths.

Secondary Action – Supports the main action.

Timing – Controls the speed of actions.

Exaggeration – Enhances appeal without losing believability.

Solid Drawing – Maintains volume and weight in drawings.

Appeal – Characters should be visually interesting.

These principles provide a framework for creating lifelike and expressive animations.


4. Tools You Need to Start Animating

Before diving into animation, you'll need the right tools. Here's a breakdown based on animation type:


For 2D Animation:

Software: Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, Krita, OpenToonz

Hardware: Wacom tablet, stylus, high-resolution monitor

Accessories: Lightbox (for traditional hand-drawn animation)

For 3D Animation:

Software: Blender (free), Autodesk Maya, Cinema 4D, ZBrush

Hardware: Powerful PC/Mac with good GPU, 16GB+ RAM

Accessories: 3D mouse (optional), external storage for backups

For Stop-Motion:

Camera: DSLR or mirrorless camera

Software: Dragonframe, Stop Motion Studio

Equipment: Tripod, lighting kit, puppet-making materials

For Motion Graphics:

Software: Adobe After Effects, Premiere Pro, Illustrator

Hardware: Mid-range laptop or desktop

Plugins: Red Giant Suite, Trapcode Form, etc.

Investing in the right tools early on can significantly impact your workflow and final output.


5. Step-by-Step Process: How to Animate

Here's a general roadmap for how to animate, applicable to both 2D and 3D workflows:


Step 1: Develop a Concept

Start with a story or idea. Whether it's a short film, commercial, or game asset, having a clear vision is crucial. Define your characters, setting, and plot.


Tip: Write a script and storyboard before animating.


Step 2: Create a Storyboard

A storyboard is a visual representation of your scenes. It helps plan shots, transitions, and pacing. Use simple sketches to map out each scene.


Step 3: Design Characters and Environments

Design your characters and backgrounds. Focus on expressions, proportions, and color schemes. Keep designs consistent for smoother animation.


Step 4: Build Models or Draw Key Poses (Dependent on Type)

For 3D animation, model characters and environments using software like Blender or Maya. For 2D, draw key poses and create reusable assets.


Step 5: Rigging (for 3D Animation)

Rigging involves adding bones and controls to your 3D model so it can move realistically. This is essential for character animation.


Step 6: Layout and Blocking

Set up your scenes with rough positioning of characters and cameras. This is called the "animatic" stage.


Step 7: Animate

Now comes the actual animation. Break down movements into keyframes and add in-betweens. Follow the 12 principles for natural motion.


Step 8: Add Sound and Music

Sync your animation with voiceovers, sound effects, and background music. This enhances emotional impact and timing.


Step 9: Lighting and rendering

In 3D animation, set up lights and render your scenes. In 2D, use shading and layering to create depth.


Step 10: Post-Production

Edit your final clips, add visual effects, and polish transitions. Export in the appropriate format for your platform.


6. Learning Resources and Courses

Learning how to animate takes time and practice. Fortunately, there are many resources available online and offline:


Free Tutorials:

YouTube Channels: Blender Guru, AlanBeckerTutorials, Video Copilot, Ctrl+Alt+Design

Websites: Blender Artists, Animation Mentor, Khan Academy

Paid Courses:

Udemy: “Blender Fundamentals,” “Adobe Animate CC – Full Beginner Course”

Coursera: “Animation Basics” by CalArts

LinkedIn Learning: “Learning Maya” and “After Effects Essential Training”

Books:

The Animator's Survival Kit by Richard Williams

Cartoon Animation by Preston Blair

Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney Master Classes

Join animation communities like CGSociety, DeviantArt, and ArtStation to get feedback and stay inspired.


7. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Learning How to Animate

Even experienced animators make mistakes. Here are some common ones beginners face:


1. Skipping the Planning Phase

Jumping straight into animation without a script or storyboard leads to disorganization and wasted time.


2. Ignoring the Principles of Animation

Not squash and stretch, timing, or applying arcs can make your animation look stiff and unnatural.


3. Overcomplicating Scenes

Beginners often try to do too much at once. Start small—focus on one character or object moving smoothly.


4. Poor Timing and Spacing

Incorrect spacing between keyframes results in jerky or unrealistic motion.


5. Rushing the Process

Good animation takes time. Be patient and revise until it feels right.


8. Tips to Improve Your Animation Skills

Here are practical ways to level up your animation game:


Study Real-Life Movement

Observe people and animals to understand how they move. Use reference footage to mimic realistic motion.


Practice Daily

Consistency is key. Try daily challenges like #AnimateThis, where animators around the world animate the same prompt.


Get Feedback

Share your work on forums or social media. Constructive criticism helps identify blind spots.


Learn from Others

Watch behind-the-scenes content from studios like Pixar and Disney. Analyze their workflow and decision-making.


Stay Updated

Technology evolves fast. Learn new tools and trends regularly to stay competitive.


9. Career Opportunities in Animation

Knowing how to animate doors to various career paths:


Traditional Roles:

Character Animator

Background Artist

Storyboard Artist

Rigger

Texture Artist

Digital & VFX Roles:

Motion Graphics Designer

Visual Effects Artist

Game Animator

UI/UX Animator

Freelance Opportunities:

Explainer Videos

Social Media Content

Logo Animation

Educational Animations

Top companies hiring animators include:


Pixar

DreamWorks

ILM

Blizzard Entertainment

Framestore

MPC Film

You can also freelance via platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Dribbble.


10. Conclusion

Learning how to animate is a rewarding journey filled with creativity, technical growth, and storytelling. Whether you want to create short films, motion graphics, or character animations, the steps outlined above provide a solid foundation.


Remember, animation is not just about mastering software—it's about understanding movement, emotion, and communication. With dedication, practice, and continuous learning, you can bring your ideas to life and share them with the world.


So grab your tools, pick a style, and start animating today!


FAQs About How to Animate


Q: Do I need to know how to draw to animate?

A: While drawing skills are helpful, especially for 2D animation, they aren't mandatory. Many 3D animators rely on modeling and rigging rather than drawing.


Q: Can I animate on a budget?

A: Yes! There are free tools like Blender, Krita, and DaVinci Resolve that allow you to create professional-quality animations without spending money.


Q: How long does it take to learn animation?

A: It varies depending on your dedication and learning method. Some grasp the basics in a few months, while mastery can take years.


Q: Is animation a good career choice?

A: Absolutely. With the rise of streaming services, gaming, and digital marketing, demand for skilled animators is growing globally.


Q: What's the difference between 2D and 3D animation?

A: 2D animation is flat and drawn frame by frame, while 3D animation uses 3D models manipulated in a virtual environment.

Donald Trump's Military Parade: Time, Date, and Weather in Washington DC

Donald Trump's Military Parade: Time, Date, and Weather in Washington DC


Discover everything about Donald Trump's military parade in Washington DC – including the exact time, date (June 14), weather forecast, US Army details, and more.

What Time Is Donald Trump's Military Parade in Washington DC?

The anticipation is building as news surfaces about a potential military parade hosted by former President Donald Trump , scheduled for June 14 in Washington DC . With the US Army preparing to celebrate its 250th anniversary , this event promises to be one of the most significant parades in recent history. But if you're planning to attend or follow it online, you're probably asking: What time does the military parade start today in DC?

Let's break down all the key details you need to know about Trump's parade , including the army parade time , weather in DC , and where to find real-time updates from trusted sources like USA Today and other Trump news today outlets.


The Big Event – ​​Trump's Military Parade on June 14

Former President Donald Trump has long expressed interest in hosting a large-scale US military parade , reminded of those seen in countries like France and Russia. This year marks the 250th anniversary of the US Army , making it an ideal opportunity for a grand celebration.

The parade is expected to take place on Saturday, June 14, 2025 , coinciding with Army Birthday and honoring the service and sacrifice of American soldiers over the past two and a half centuries.

If you're wondering, When is Trump's birthday parade? – this event isn't celebrating his personal birthday but rather aligns with his vision of showcasing American strength and patriotism through a Trump military parade .

What Time Does the Military Parade Start in Washington DC?

One of the most frequently asked questions is: what time is the military parade today in DC? Based on early reports and official statements from the Department of Defense , the army parade in DC is set to begin at 10:00 AM Eastern Time on June 14 .

Parade Time: 10:00 AM ET

Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025

Location: National Mall, Washington DC

This timing allows ample daylight for aerial displays, marching bands, and military equipment demonstrations. It also gives attendees enough time to arrive and find good viewing spots along the Washington DC parade route.

Where Will the Parade Be Held in DC?

The main Washington DC parade will proceed along the National Mall, starting near the Lincoln Memorial and ending at the Capitol Building. Major streets such as Constitution Avenue and parts of the National Mall will be closed to accommodate the event.

If you're planning to attend, consider arriving early to secure a prime spot. You can also watch the military parade live stream via USA Today and other major news networks covering Trump news today .

How Long Will the Parade Last?

Expect the parade time to last approximately 3 hours, with the procession winding through downtown DC and featuring:

Active-duty military units

Veteran organizations

Military vehicles and aircraft flyovers

Ceremonial honors for fallen soldiers

So, if you're asking when is the parade in Washington DC, plan to dedicate your morning and early afternoon to the event.

What Is the Weather Forecast for Washington DC on June 14?

A common question among attendees is: what is the weather in DC today? or more specifically, weather in Washington DC on Saturday, June 14 .

As of current forecasts, Washington DC weather on June 14 is expected to be warm but pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) . There may be partly cloudy skies, though occasional showers cannot be ruled out.

Here's a quick weather summary:

Detail

Info

Date

June 14, 2025

Location

Washington DC

Temperature

75°F - 85°F

Sky Conditions

Partly cloudy with possible light rain

Wind

Light breeze

You may want to bring a light jacket or umbrella just in case. Also, check weather in DC today or weather in Washington DC Saturday closer to the date for updated forecasts.

What About Traffic and Public Transportation?

With thousands expected to gather for Trump's parade , traffic in and around Washington DC will be heavily impacted. Metro services are expected to run on an expanded weekend schedule, with additional trains and buses deployed to handle the crowds.

If you're driving, expect delays and road closures. For real-time updates, check washington dc parade time alerts and local transit advisories.

Who Is Involved in the Parade?

This US military parade will feature:

Units from all five branches of the armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Space Force)

Veterans groups and military bands

Historical reenactments marking the US Army 250th anniversary

Potential appearances by current and former government officials, possibly including President Trump

The US Army 250th anniversary is a major milestone, and this army parade 2025 will serve as a national tribute to the oldest branch of the US military.

Why Is Trump Involved in the Parade?

While Donald Trump is no longer in office, he remains a prominent political figure and has been vocal about supporting the military. Reports suggest that Trump has shown strong interest in attending and possibly addressing the crowd during the military parade .

Though not officially labeled as “Trump's parade,” many media outlets have dubbed it Trump's military parade due to his involvement and enthusiasm for such events.

If you're searching for Trump news today , this parade could dominate headlines across platforms like USA Today , Fox News, CNN, and more.

How Can I Watch the Parade?

If you're unable to attend in person, here are several ways to catch the military parade live :

Live TV Broadcasts: Major networks like ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox News will likely provide coverage.

Online Streaming: Visit websites like USA Today , C-SPAN, or military-focused channels for live feeds.

Social Media: Platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter/X will host live streams and updates throughout the day.

For the latest information on what time is the military parade today , follow official military and White House social media accounts.

Key Questions Answered

Below are answers to some of the most searched queries related to the military parade in Washington DC :

Q: When is the army parade in DC?

A: June 14, 2025

Q: What time is the military parade in DC today?

A: 10:00 AM Eastern Time

Q: What time does Trump's parade start?

A: 10:00 AM ET on June 14

Q: What is the weather in DC today?

A: Expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures between 75°F and 85°F

Q: Where is the parade in Washington DC held?

A: Along the National Mall, from Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol Building

Q: Is this the US Army 250th anniversary parade?

A: Yes, it celebrates the 250th birthday of the US Army

Q: Who is organizing the army parade DC?

A: The Department of Defense in collaboration with the White House

Final Thoughts – A Historic Celebration

Whether you're a veteran, a patriot, or simply curious about what time is the parade today in DC , the Donald Trump military parade promises to be a memorable event. As the nation gathers to honor the US Army's 250th anniversary , this Washington DC parade will serve as a powerful reminder of the courage and dedication of America's service members.

Be sure to check back on Trump news today , washington dc weather today , and trump's parade time updates as the date approaches. And don't forget to look up weather in washington dc saturday

How the Man in Seat 11A Became a Plane Crash’s Sole Survivor

How the Man in Seat 11A Became a Plane Crash’s Sole Survivor

Viswash Kumar Ramesh was one of 242 people on the 787-8 Dreamliner that went down shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad, India. Somehow, he walked away.

Only the passenger in Seat 11A on Air India Flight 171 lived to tell the tale, a survival nothing short of a miracle.



When the Air India plane with 242 people onboard crashed into a building moments after taking off from the international airport in Ahmedabad, it burst into flames. The impact, heat and smoke were so intense, officials said, that escape was impossible.


Except for Viswash Kumar Ramesh, 38.


In the hours after the crash, grainy footage of a man with wounds on his face and blood on his shirt went viral on social media. He walked himself to an ambulance with a slight limp, and told a crowd around him that he had come “from inside” the plane.



Mr. Ramesh’s story initially appeared too good to be true; the crash was so severe that the bodies of most victims were charred beyond recognition, officials said. But by late evening, Air India confirmed that there had been one survivor, who was getting treatment at the hospital. Amit Shah, India’s home minister, said he had visited the survivor, and Indian media ran photos of Mr. Shah standing at Mr. Ramesh’s bedside.


“I still can’t believe how I got out alive,” Mr. Ramesh said on Friday in an interview from his hospital bed with India’s state broadcaster, Doordarshan. “I thought I was also about to die.”


Mr. Ramesh, who was seated in an exit row, said the plane had felt “stuck five or 10 seconds after takeoff,” and it seemed to be trying to accelerate when it crashed.



The front of the plane, after hitting buildings, crashed into an open area, he said, while the tail was stuck in a building, which was later identified as the dining facility of a medical college.


Mr. Ramesh said he unbuckled his seatbelt after the crash when he saw a chance for escape. He did not make clear whether he had to open the emergency exit he was sitting next to, or if the impact had caused it to open.


“When my door broke, I saw there was some space — that I could try to get out,” he said in the interview. “The other side, people couldn’t get out, as it was crushed against a wall.”


Mr. Ramesh, who is a British citizen, was returning to England after vacationing in India along with his brother Ajay, their younger brother Nayan said. Ajay, who the passenger list showed was seated in 11J on the right side of the plane, did not survive.



Shortly after the crash, Mr. Ramesh made a video call from near the wreckage to his family in Leicester to confirm he was safe, the younger brother said. There, the family home was a scene of both mourning for Ajay and stunned amazement that Viswash had somehow walked away.