Production Process for Animation

From script to illustration to music, I deliver a complete animation service. Either working solo, or using a team of freelance specialists. Whether your concept’s fully evolved, or that first spark, I can develop into the animation you need.

All projects are managed by myself, an experienced Creative Director, who fully understands the production process. This ensures your budget gets spent on creative results, not admin and overheads.

The production pipeline:

A steps of my most regularly used process…

1. Briefing

Our first chance to discuss your ideas, we can chat by email, video or in person. It’s good to start by looking at other animation you like, as well as any scripts or images you already have. We can discuss your goals, schedule and budget.

2. Script

A strong script is crucial to a successful project. And if you’re new to scripts, you’re in luck, as I’ve a writer that specialises in animation. Together, we’ve adapted the words of many clients to work with animated films. And in the case of Rolling Stone Magazine, we wrote the script from scratch.

3. Feedback

The script is your first chance for feedback, but it won’t be your last. You’ll have multiple opportunities to give your opinion. In fact I relish it, as clear feedback leads to a smooth process and the best results.

4. Illustration and Design

My background is illustration, so I always love designing from scratch, making a project truly unique. You’ll be involved in that whole process, inviting your feedback and thoughts. And if you already have a design in place, I’ll be delighted to animate it.

5. Storyboard

This is where your project comes to life, and so many important choices are made. You’ll see how the images and words combine, as characters and transitions add magic to your idea.

6. Animatic

The ‘animatic’ is the first edit of your project. I use our sketches and designs to cut a rough film. Adding voice-over to help ensure the message works on screen, while establishing the pace and duration.

7. Voiceover (VO)

As with the script, the voice needs to be great. I work with sensational voice artists, and always keen to scout new ones. I can produce this whole process, inc. securing the usage rights, and directing the recording.

8. Animation

With the storyboard, designs and VO approved, you can now relax, while I work my magic. In reality, that means hard graft for me, as there’s no short cut to good animation. I’ll send progress updates as I go, so avoiding any surprises.

9. Music

Ahh – the magical moment when animation and music combine! The composer is crucial to this, and I’ve found several musical geniuses to collaborate with. Original music can be surprisingly affordable, but library music is always there as an option.

10. Sound Design & Mixing

Sound effects are crucial to making animation feel complete, be it a bouncing ball or moving text. The composers I work with create both music and effects, allowing the whole track to evolve as one. They then master the audio for web, TV or cinema.

11. Final Delivery

You’ve approved the final animation and audio, so time to deliver the final video. Regardless the size, the delivery is managed online. From the start we’ll establish technical aspects, setting up for a stress free delivery.

12. Digital Marketing

You’ll now want eyeballs on your message… So you NEED a strategy! Whether aiming at a niche or broad audience, planning is essential. Such marketing is a specialist service, and I’ll help you find the right people…

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