#runanimation

This is the 4th blog post of my animation journey. My task this time is to create a short animation of a horse doing a Quadruped Run.

Learning Objectives

Principles of Quadrupeds in Motion: Continue your exploration of the principles that define the motion of quadrupeds, understanding the nuances that contribute to the realistic portrayal of running. Explore the distinctive characteristics that set running animations apart.

Animating Quadruped Gallops: Learn the art of animating a quadruped in a galloping motion. Explore techniques to convey the energy, speed, and power of a running horse, understanding the specific movements and transitions that define a gallop.

Introduction to the Mothman TD Horse Rig: Reacquaint yourself with the Mothman TD Horse Rig, a versatile resource that serves as your key to crafting dynamic quadruped animations.

Hands-on Tutorial – Horse Gallop Animation: A step-by-step tutorial where you'll animate a horse in a spirited gallop using the Mothman TD Horse Rig. Apply the principles of quadruped galloping to create a visually captivating animation that showcases the speed, grace, and power of a running horse.

Animation Software: IClone 8 by Reallusion

3D Rig: Horse.iAvatar by Reallusion

Tutorial: (password: apprentice)

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

Part 4:

Part 5:

The Outcome:

Blog:

I decided to switch the usual software used in class and, this time, try the execution on another software I'm more familiar with. This time, I decided to use 'IClone 8', another 3D software program that works well with 'Autodesk Maya', although I have not explored that path just yet. Conveniently enough, the software came with its own premade 3D objects, props, and characters, including a horse rig I could use for the assignment. It's always a challenge when you're trying to adjust to different tools while following a tutorial or instruction. For the most part, I was able to follow through on most of the instructions, but midway, I think around part 3, is when I decided to diverge a bit and decided to maybe look at other references instead of ending up with something that looked a bit too rigid and maybe too constructive, kind of like what I ended up with last 'Horse' assignment. That last one felt a bit too rigid, especially when it came down to the horse running past the barn. So from then on, I decided to look at the references instead to see how the outcome might have changed. For the most part, I think I was able to come up with something that feels a bit of my own. I do feel that if I start trying to come up with something in my own way, I'd be able to create something a bit more original and unique.

Images from the Animation:

Image 1: Wide view angle featuring the horse and 3 panels placed as its background. The camera is also seen at a good distance just left of the horse rig.

Image 2: A timeline of the objects, props, and, of course, rigs used within the animation. These also include a frame-by-frame key for the horse and camera rig, where the animation is primarily focused.

The References and other tutorial vids:

What new techniques and practices are arising in the animation industry:

"Virtual Reality Interfaces for Animation Design" (2022) Summary: This research investigates the role of VR interfaces in animation production, showing how immersive tools enhance animator productivity and creative exploration. User studies reveal improved spatial awareness and efficiency in posing and manipulating 3D characters.