Let Your True Light Shine in Computer-Generated Animation
By Debbie Wilson
Debbie.Wilson@computeranimationsschoolreview.com
Computer Animations School Review Columnist
Computer-generated animation is all the rage today, and with very good reason. That's because computer-generated animation produces the most realistic scenes, characters, and lighting than any other available medium. And while it may seem as though scenery and lighting take a back seat to the character plot and storyline, the proper lighting can actually make or break an animation film.
How Computer-Generated Animation Affects Lighting
In the blockbuster hit Ice Age, Chris Wedge uses computer-generation animation to create a world that looks and feels ultra real. According to Chris, the expert lighting had a lot to do with the movie's success because the computer allowed his staff to develop and control the light much more realistically than they would have been able to without computer-generated animation. His staff used shades of yellow and white to produce natural daylight. Then they added hues of blue and gray to simulate nightfall. And finally, they filtered in shades and shadows to give the scenery its final touches. The end result was a very believable, naturally-lit world that helped promote and enhance the movie's animated characters and audience's admiration.
Become the Lighting Expert
If you enjoy working with the effects of light and have a knack for computers, a rewarding career in computer-generated animation could be just right for you. Courses in lighting, graphics, set, and scenery can be obtained at one of more than a thousand schools, colleges, universities, or technical programs. When selecting a program or school, look for courses offered in the specific area of lighting that interests you most. If you're not sure, get some training and experience in multiple areas until you find one that sparks your creative lighting interests. Then you'll be on your way to a challenging, flexible career in computer-generated animation as a lighting specialist.
Source
www.academyart.edu
About the Author
Debbie Wilson currently operates a lakeside resort. Her previous experience includes profitability consulting for a national health-care company. Debbie holds a B.A. in Business Management with a minor in Physical Education.
Posted on July 21, 2006 at 06:30 PM
