Animation

CHARACTER MODEL SHEETS

Character Model Sheets

the templates of the characters used by the animation staff.

They provide the construction, structure, proportion, design, etc. for each character.

Below is a Model Rotation - its purpose to show the character from all sides.

CHARACTER ROTATION

should include a front view, back view, 3/4 view, and profile view of the character.

These views help the animator (s) understand the character's construction and proportion.

The rotation also insures the character design can be turned.

The ability to turn a character is an element of animation which increases the character's believability.

CHARACTER ROTATION

The easiest and best way to draw out a Rotation is to break down the character into its simplest forms. .. then you just rotate the forms.

Character Forms

A simple shaped character uses one basic shape or FORM for the main body of character.

keep in mind the dimensional aspects of your drawing - in other words, what appear to be SHAPES are really 3D FORMS.

CHARACTER MODELS The head (and neck if seen)

are ALWAYS on the FRONT side of the body

Once the basic forms are drawn - the details are drawn over top the forms.

Hair and fur are like carpeting over the form. Try to simplify the details and apply basic rules of design. (check to make details, asymmetrical and pay attention to your positive and negative space.

CHARACTER MODELS Use the same procedure for the construction of the head as you

did with the body. Begin with the simple forms, then add the eyeline and center line and then layer the details over top.

The eyes are anchored on top of the eyeline. The nose or snout is anchored below the eyeline.

Try to design people or animals...NO ALIENS, INSECTS OR ROBOTS! Draw the simple shapes in the views to match the character’s rotation. When in doubt ALWAYS go back to basics.

really THINK about WHO your character is. The character is always defined by his or her (or its) NEEDS...and those needs are reflected in his or her ACTIONS. If you are not sure, write a a short bio of your character.

CHARACTER MODELS

CHARACTER MODELS

Model sheets generally include 3 pages: Page 1: Character Rotations (front, back, ¾

and side views) Page 2: Close-up with the details,

proportions and structure of the character’s head.

Page 3: 5 or 6 action poses of your character. This page is pure play! Its purpose to make sure the character works in action.