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Timing for Animation: 40th Anniversary Edition

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Delve into the Art of Animation Timing

For four decades, "Timing for Animation" has been the cornerstone of animation education and practice. Written by renowned Disney animators Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas, this timeless guide provides a comprehensive exploration of timing, the fundamental element that brings life to animated characters.

Timing for Animation, 40th Anniversary Edition

by Tom Sito

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	31160 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	184 pages

This special 40th anniversary edition celebrates the enduring legacy of "Timing for Animation." It includes a wealth of insights, exercises, and illustrations that have helped shape generations of animators.

Principles of Timing

Johnston and Thomas establish twelve foundational principles of timing that guide the animator in creating believable and engaging movement. These principles encompass:

Slow-In and Slow-Out: Objects accelerate and decelerate gradually, creating a natural rhythm to their motion.
Arcs: Characters and objects move along curved paths, mimicking the fluidity of natural movement.
Secondary Action: Subtle movements complement the primary action, adding depth and realism.
Overlapping Action: Body parts move at slightly different rates, enhancing the illusion of weight and movement.
Follow-Through and Drag: Objects continue to move after the force acting on them has stopped.
Ease: Movements begin and end with a smooth transition, avoiding abrupt starts and stops.
Squash and Stretch: Objects deform and compress during movement, adding energy and dynamism.
Exaggeration: Timing can be amplified to emphasize emotions or create humorous effects.
Straight Ahead: Animating one frame at a time, following the action as it unfolds.
Pose to Pose: Animating key poses and then filling in the in-betweens.
Anticipation: Movement is hinted at before it occurs, creating anticipation and suspense.
Staging: The environment and camera placement support the timing and convey the story.

Techniques and Exercises

"Timing for Animation" offers a treasure trove of techniques and exercises to master these principles. Animators can delve into:

Timing Sheets: Planning and visualizing the timing of a sequence.
Spacing Charts: Analyzing the distribution of frames to control the speed of movement.
Key Frames: Identifying the critical poses that define the action.
In-Betweening: Animating the frames between key frames to create smooth transitions.
Rhythm: Creating a harmonious flow of movement through varied speeds and accelerations.

The Legacy of "Timing for Animation"

Since its initial publication in 1981, "Timing for Animation" has become an indispensable resource for animators worldwide. Its principles and techniques have shaped countless animated films, television shows, and video games.

This 40th anniversary edition continues the legacy of "Timing for Animation" by introducing it to a new generation of animators. It includes:

An updated by animation historian John Canemaker.
New illustrations and examples from contemporary animated productions.
Insights from industry professionals on the importance of timing in their work.

"Timing for Animation: 40th Anniversary Edition" is not just a book; it's a timeless masterpiece that has shaped the art of animation for decades. Its principles and techniques remain essential for creating believable, engaging, and memorable animated characters and sequences.

Whether you're an aspiring animator or a seasoned professional, this 40th anniversary edition will provide invaluable insights and inspiration. It's a must-have for anyone who wants to master the art of animation timing.

Cover Of Timing For Animation: 40th Anniversary Edition, Featuring Ollie Johnston And Frank Thomas Timing For Animation 40th Anniversary Edition