This subject is designed to demonstrate to students the importance of efficiency and organisation when implementing a post-production pipeline for animation productions. The subject builds on previous studies undertaken in the course. In a variety of settings students are presented with case studies and analyse critically the following processes present in them:
• Production workflow;
• Naming Conventions;
• Sound Design;
• Editing and Colour Grading;
• Mastering to appropriate media output.
In workshops students are given instruction for a post-production workflow in an animation production pipeline. Emphasis is placed on efficient file management and data storage in order to streamline the production. Students are encouraged to determine strong naming conventions for file management, as well as using appropriate media codes in order to allow for the highest quality delivery of their work. Integration of files between software packages (i.e. rendering from 3D, composited in a 2D compositing software and then edited in a dedicated editing software), are key features of this activity.
Within the post-production workflow, students undertake designing, recording, and editing sound for their productions. With lip synch dialogue already pre-recorded and utilised within the production phase of the animation, emphasis is placed on foley, sound effects and music for the screen. Students incorporate these elements according to their production.
Students implement a workflow for the edit of their production. In earlier subjects students have designed animatics and video blocks of their productions. These edited sequences reflect the final delivery of their animation and by using the animatic and video block as a template, students should be able to replace shots within their timeline as their animation progresses from blocking, through to final animation. In practical sessions students colour grade their work on broadcast quality monitors, incorporating broadcast safe colour standards for mastering to a final playable delivery platform.
This subject is delivered with significant emphasis on the development of practical skills. Software skills are taught in a computer lab with access to appropriate facilities for capture, editing, compositing and mastering to a playable delivery platform, e.g. mini DV, DV Cam, Digi beta and DVD. In workshops students evaluate their own work and that of their peers in accordance with criteria established in tutorials.
Practical skills are developed through the completion of several projects, each designed to demonstrate the importance of comprehensive planning and preparation prior to beginning production. In workshop sessions students complete thumbnails, concept art, storyboards, digital pre-visualisations and any other planning documentation necessary for the project in question.
Duration: One Semester – 14 Teaching Weeks
Contact Time: 70 hours (5 hours per week). Contact hours are comprised of timetabled teacher-directed sessions, which may include lectures, screening sessions, tutorials, practical workshops and studio sessions as appropriate to the subject content.
Self-Directed Learning and Independent Study: 98 hours
