Animation:The Illusion of Motion

Visual Persistence

Definition:When the human eye retains an image(after image) for a fraction of a second on the retina after exposure to the image. This explains the ability for viewing a series of images as continous motion.

Thaumatrope Examples Batman Illusion Lightbulb Illusion

Argued as an inadequate explanation for cinema film and that instead the images would pile up.

Phi Phenomenon

Definition:In contrast to visual persistence, phi phenomenon is when a series of still images flash on and off in rapid succession that results in the illusion of movement. Flashes of light combined with broken moments of darkness produce the illusion.

Basic example This definition more appropriately lies behind

the moving images you see at the cinema. Examples

Frame Rate and Shutter Speed

Definition:Inanimation, still pictures are referred to as frames. Frame rate refers to number of frames per second.

Definition:Measuredin seconds, shutter speed is the amount of time a film or image is exposed to light.