The Principles of Classical Animation From Disney

Astrophysics is dependent upon some concepts like force of gravity, speed of light, light year etc. Mechanics is derived from quantities like mass, velocity, acceleration, momentum and many more. Thermodynamics is based upon mass, volume, pressure, gas laws etc. Every science is based upon some basic principles. When we understand these Basic Principles, the study of science becomes easier.

So, what these things have to do with Animation? Does it have some rules, or principles? Who found or defined them? What are those?

For answers to these questions, I am taking Disney Studio as reference. At start of 20th century, Animation was in its initial phase. Animation artists were trying new and newer ideas and getting different results. Some of those ideas and techniques were continued and developed while some were lagged and obsolete.And this was the phenomena, when principles of Animation were invented, developed, well-defined, used and reused differently.

According to book, “The Illusion of Life : Disney Animation”  there are 12 Fundamental Principles of Animation. Animation artists of Disney Studio have developed those principles from their experiences. Even, new artists appointed to studio were initially taught these principles, like syllabus or training program.

Fundamental Principles of Animation:

1. Squash and Stretch.
2. Anticipation.
3. Staging.
4. Straight Ahead Action and Pose to Pose.
5. Follow Through and Overlapping Action.
6. Slow In and Slow Out.
7. Arcs.
8. Secondary Action.
9. Timing.
10. Exaggeration.
11. Solid Drawing.
12. Appeal.

Again, one more important point: At start, I have mentioned about various sciences and their principles. If you study those principles you can answer some problem, regarding the branch, with great accuracy or precision. But in Animation, knowing and learning these principles, does not guarantee success every time but they make result more Predictable.

So, for Animator, these principles must be practiced a lot. The difference in media (2D or 3D), may cause difference, in the way the principles are used, but core concept always remains the same and is helpful for effective working.

That’s all. In next article, I am coming with 1st principle: Squash and Stretch.

Till then, Good Bie!!!

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