Animation is the sixth phase of the 3D production pipeline and is where the 3D model that has been created and rigged can be given “life”. (Get Movin’ With a Career in 3D Animation, 2014) 3D animation uses computer generated images to create animated scenes, this is done through the use of frames, still images that flash onscreen in rapid succession to give the illusion of a moving picture. This process can be simplified through the use of key frames, this involves creating frames at key points and allowing the program to fill in the movement gaps to save time. This tactic works very efficiently for simple animations and complex animations alike however more complex animations will require more details and key frames to create a more realistic animation. (Wiesen, 2015)
Elsa from Frozen image sourced from: http://www.buzzfeed.com/arianelange/frozen-sing-along-special-snowflakes#.wmVpoWJX1
Sources
Get Movin’ With a Career in 3D Animation. (2014). Retrieved March 5, 2015, from The Art Career Project: http://www.theartcareerproject.com/get-movin-with-a-career-in-3d-animation/215/
Wiesen, G. (2015, February 19). What is 3d Computer Animation. Retrieved from WiseGeek: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-3d-computer-animation.htm
3D Animation and Art 