Week 6 Links & Notes
(specific to this week)

Live Sessions This Week:

📺 Watch: Mon 9.29 Review → [Watch Here]

Looking Ahead (Week 7)

Weekly review will be pre-recorded, and week 7 will open Tues. Oct. 7th @noon due to In Service Day on Mon. October 6th.
Next live (recorded) session: Wed. Oct 8th @ noon (only live session in Week 7)

This week’s deadlines:
Tuesday, Oct. 7th @ noon

Next week, we have Exercise 3, numerous AE demos, and continue our P2 development.

Next week, for P2, we will revise our storyboards, 2s motion test (Wednesday), and move on to developing our first 10–15s of P2 (Monday) for a Zoom or Discussion Board Critique. Next week includes additional AE Demos on Compound shapes, merge paths, trim paths, 3D shapes.

Weekly Content

Week 6 (though not required, it is recommended you move through in sequence. All items need to be complete by the of week):

1. Attend or watch recording of Monday Zoom. We will review this week’s content.
   
   SECTION I – Transitions
   
2. Review of Transition Resources
   
   SECTION II – P2
   
3. Continue development of P2: Principles of Design in Motion
4. Due next Tues 10.7: Project 2 ideation (brainstorming, mindmaps, sketches to Medium)
5. Due next Tues 10.7: 3 Styleframes (post to Medium)
6. Due next Tues 10.7: Rough Storyboard (post to Medium)
7. Due next Tues 10.7: Post your 3 styleframes and storyboard to D2L “P2: Styleframes & Storyboard” by Tues @noon OR attend next Wednesday’s ZOOM Critique.
   
   Looking ahead (next Tues–Thurs): P2 Crit #1 – Styleframes -Comment on 3 others by Thursday@noon (if you do not attend Wednesday’s ZOOM). You only need to participate in one or the other.
   
   SECTION III – AE
   
8. Watch Demo AE Videos
9. Review After Effects Resources
10. Begin Exercise 3 (due Mon. Oct 13th)

SECTION I – TRANSITIONS

P2 Process Work

Post/Post to a story called “Principles of Design in Motion: Ideation” on Medium. How to post on Medium.

• 4.Project 2 Initial Exploration:
  • Brainstorm 20 different themes. Then, select 8 principles and create 3 Mind Maps based on your top 3 themes; Consider the animation principles that may be used to correspond with each design principle. Research all principles and decide on a theme that can connect all of the ideas together and demonstrate the principles. Begin thumbnails for the top 3 themes.
  • Narrow to 1 concept after exploring and documenting 3 ideations.
  • Continue thumbnail sketches on 1 theme (brainstorm the animation principles that may be used to correspond with each design principle). Begin exploring concepts.

• 5. 3 Styleframes (1920px x 1080px): A single, STATIC frame that depicts the look and feel. Visual considerations coalesce with narrative, composition, and motion. All choices must be rooted in concept. Each styleframe should be a completely different visual direction and may pull from different conceptual directions. Using the same layout/composition, and simply changing the typeface will result in a grade deduction. Spend time creating three completely different visual directions, and avoid committing to “your favorite” too early on. Each direction should be strong. You will more than likely need to explore more than 3 visual directions to result in 3 strong directions. Consider breaking your design time into a minimum of two sessions (an initial sprint + a refinement session). Upload to the bottom of your Medium Process story you created last week.
• 6. Rough Storyboard: (suggested methods: index cards OR .ai artboards OR storyboarding paper above): Brings together the script with the visuals. Indicate framing, as well as how elements will enter, exit, move throughout the frame. Minimum of 12 frames (title slide + 8 principles + consider transitions)
• Optional: Create 1 moodboard on top 1 concept (include type exploration, image/illustration style, color, keywords).
• 7. P2 Crit #1 –Post your 3 styleframes and rough storyboard to Discussion Board on D2L “P2: Styleframes” (post by next Tues @ noon / 3 comments by Thurs @ noon. In D2L, go to Communications > Discussions). You only need to participate in the D2L critique if you do attend next Wednesday’s noon Zoom Critique.
  
  Looking ahead (next Tues-Thurs): P2 Crit #1 -Comment on 3 others by Thursday@noon (if you do not attend Wednesday’s live ZOOM). You only need to participate in one or the other.

Focus for Critique: 

TOPIC: What is the theme you are using to communicate the principles? What is the overarching idea (thinking, logic, thread) for your design? Brainstorm on the principles within your theme. (for example: If your theme is a game of pool, alignment could show the balls aligning together. If your theme is a designer's process of creating, alignment could show the final works pinned on the wall together in alignment.)

STYLEFRAMES: Which styleframe is most successful in communicating the visual style for your theme? Type, color, imagery, etc. Is there unity throughout? Color coding? Suggestions for improvement. 

MOTION: How can the motion could communicate the theme? (for example: A nature theme might connect the motion to the movement of growing. A magic show theme could connect the motion to the forms appear or disappearing.)

8. AE Demos

In After Effects, this week we will review Pen Tool, Bezier Shapes, Adjustment Layers, Masks on images, Effects + Presets

9. AE Resources

1. File Setup and Management:
Create a Composition: Set the duration to 5-10 seconds with dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Background: Choose a background image or texture that supports your concept (Unsplash, Lost and Taken, or similar).
File Management: Organize your project files appropriately for ease of use and efficiency.

2. Theme: Transformation Transition:
Concept: Define what is transforming (an object, mood, or scene).
Decide how the change begins, how it progresses, and how it ends.
Make sure the viewer can see the evolution—don’t just “cut” between unrelated images.

3. Image Selection and Masking:
Select 3–5 Images: Choose 3-5 images from Old Book Illustrations, Unsplash, or personal photos that represent different stages of your transformation.
Masking Techniques: Mask at least one image using the pen tool. The other images can be masked using different techniques (e.g., shape masks or track mattes). Integrate the images so they feel like part of the same space or visual world.

4. Effects and Text:
Transformation Effects: Apply 1-3 effects per image that reflect or enhance the transformation theme (e.g., blur, color shift, distortion). Make sure the effects contribute to the narrative and don't overwhelm the composition.
Quote and Text Effects: Choose a quote that relates to your transformation theme. Animate the text using 1-2 effects (e.g., opacity changes, scaling) to integrate it into the composition.

5. Motion and Transitions:
Animate and Choreograph: Ensure smooth transitions between the images, with thoughtful use of scaling, rotation, or position changes. Each image should enter and exit the composition in a way that emphasizes the transformation.
Overall Flow: Pay attention to timing so that the elements move harmoniously, avoiding any dead space or abrupt transitions.

6. Rendering and Submission:
Render Your Composition: Render in H.264 format using the Vimeo 1080 preset. Upload to D2L + Vimeo (if possible). If possible, submit the link via D2L.

Week 5 Links & Notes
(specific to this week)

Live Sessions This Week:

📺 Watch: Mon 9.15 Review + Live Crit Recording → [Watch Here] approx. 23m

Looking Ahead (Week 6)

Next live (recorded) session: Mon Sept 29th @ noon (only live session in Week 6)

This week’s deadlines:
Wednesday, Sept. 24 @ noon

Monday, Sept. 29 @ noon

Next week, we have Exercise 3, numerous AE demos, and will begin our P2 development.

Weekly Content

Week 5 (though not required, it is recommended you move through in sequence. As everything is due by end of the week, it is best to work ahead. All items need to be completed.):

1. Attend or watch a recording of Monday Zoom. We will review this week’s content and critique the live work for anyone present.
   
   SECTION I – The Principles of Animation
   
2. Watch Lecture Video – Lecture: Principles of Motion Graphics
3. Review Principles of Motion Graphics Resources
   
   SECTION II – P1 Submission + P2 Introduction
   
4. Due Mon.: Finalize and turn in P1 Kinetic Typography
5. Review P1 Submission Guidelines on Week 4 before submitting.
6. Due Mon.: Final Presentation Rationale (post to Vimeo, or Medium)
7. Due Mon.: Design Boards (file for download) turn in with P1 on D2L
8. Introduce P2: Principles of Design in Motion
9. Due the following Mon. Oct 5th: P2 Ideation: For those that want to work ahead, brainstorm 20 themes, 3 mindmaps, thumbs for 3 themes, narrow to top theme, and continue with sketches (post to Medium)
10. Due Mon.: Finalize and Submit Exercise 2 via Vimeo + D2L “exercise 2” folder (details in week 4)
    
    SECTION III – AE
    
11. Optional: Sign-up for Adobe MAX Conference

SECTION I – PRINCIPLES OF ANIMATION

2. Principles of Animation

This week focuses on the 12 principles of animation and starting to think about our next project. We are not officially starting the project until next week. It is okay if you wait until next Monday to start this lecture as we will not have a lecture next week (just don’t forget to go back). Sharing to give you the option to get an early start.

4-principles-of-motion-graphics

P2_PrinciplesofMotion

3. Principles Resources:

• 12 Principles of Animation | Mustard Creative Agency
• Disney’s The Illusion of Life Motion
• Squash and Stretch Example
• Staging Example
• Straight Ahead Action & Pose to Pose
• Slow In and Slow Out
• Arcs | Josh Riley (humor included)
• Secondary Action Example
• Timing Example
• Solid Drawing Example
• Appeal Example
• 12 Principles of Animation
• Applying 12 Principles to UI

SECTION II – P1 + P2 Introduction

5. P1 Final Submission (also review week 4)

• Project 1 Final: Final motion design uploaded to Vimeo. Upload your final files in a ZIPPED folder named “lastname_p1_kineticType” to the assignments folder on D2L “Project 1”.
  • In zipped folder, FINAL .aep file
  • In zipped folder, FINAL movie rendering @1080p or 720p (do not need process renderings)
  • In zipped folder, Design Boards (file for download) – PDF please, uncheck “illustrator editing capabilities”

• All process work (PDFs, JPEGs, PNGs) needs to be on Medium post (not in zipped folder)
  • initial audio research and ideation
  • brainstorming/sketches
  • mood boards / type exploration
  • motion script
  • storyboard
  • 3 styleframes
  • 2s motion test

6. Final Presentations (rationale): (2.5% of Final Grade) For our first project, you will either be (1) writing a rationale of your concept for your final work or (2) record a video of you describing your concept and posting it in D2L Discussion Board > P1 Final Presentations. If you run into issues within Vimeo, do not worry about uploading the final to Vimeo. For your rationale/presentation, describe concept (narrative, mood, contrast, and formal) and formal choices. Remember to include both the name of your typeface(s) and WHY they were selected to support your concept. All of your choices should support how you wanted your work to feel.

7. Create Design Boards (file for download) (2.5% of Final Grade) Please refer to Zoom recording below. Note: drag and and drop link to new tab if you have a PC.

9. P2 Process Work

Post/Post to a NEW story called “Principles of Design in Motion: Ideation” on Medium. How to post on Medium.

Due the following Mon. Oct 5th – (posting for anyone wanting to get a head start on ideation)

• Project 2 Initial Exploration: Brainstorm 20 different themes. Then, select 8 principles and create 3 Mind Maps based on your top 3 themes; Consider the animation principles that may be used to correspond with each design principle. Research all principles and decide on a theme that can connect all of the ideas together and demonstrate the principles. Begin thumbnails for the top 3 themes.
• Narrow to 1 concept after exploring and documenting 3 ideations.
• Continue thumbnail sketches on 1 theme (brainstorm the animation principles that may be used to correspond with each design principle). Begin exploring concepts.
• Create 1 moodboard on top 1 concept (include type exploration, image/illustration style, color, keywords).
• Looking ahead (not due Sunday), research audio selections for your P2:
  • Soundly
  • MusOpen
  • AudioBlocks
  • http://freemusicarchive.org/curator/Creative_Commons/
  • https://archive.org/details/netlabels
  • http://www.beatpick.com/
  • https://www.bensound.com/royalty-free-music/3
  • http://magnatune.com/genres/
  • https://freesound.org/browse/tags/music/
  • http://surf4u.com/ 
    

SECTION III – AE

11. AE – Adobe MAX Conference Sign-Up

We will not have any new demos in AE this week as you finalize P1 and begin P2. Next week, we will continue with image masks, the pen tool, bezier shapes, adjustment layers, and effects.

This week, I would like you to sign up for the Adobe Max Conference (free online) and begin looking at the sessions (below) in After Effects (or Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator) you would like to attend Oct 28-30th.

Adobe MAX is one of the biggest events for graphic designers, VFX artists, web designers, and more from around the world to come together and explore what’s next for creatives.

Adobe Max Guide

View the Session Catalog

https://max.adobe.com/max-online/

Week 4 Links & Notes
(specific to this week)

Live Sessions This Week:

📺 Watch: Mon 9.15 Review + Live Crit Recording → [Watch Here] approx 45m

Looking Ahead (Week 5)

Next live (recorded) session: Mon Sept 22 @ noon (only live session in Week 5)

This week’s deadlines:
Wednesday, Sept. 17 @ noon

Monday, Sept. 22 @ noon

• 9. Exercise 2 – post to Vimeo as “Exercise 2” – due Mon. 9.29

Next week, Project 1 is due at the end of the week. We will begin discussing the Principles of Design which will lead us into our second project.

Weekly Content

Week 4 (Though not required, it is recommended you move through in sequence. To stay on schedule, it is recommended you have 1, 4, 6 completed by Wednesday@noon. All 10 need to be complete by Sunday @midnight):

1. Attend or watch a recording of Monday Zoom. We will review this week’s content.
   
   SECTION I – Motion Design
   
2. Watch Lecture Video – Lecture: History of Motion Graphics
3. Review History of Motion Graphics Resources
   
   SECTION II – P1 + Exercise 2
   
4. Continue development of P1 Kinetic Typography
5. Review P1 Submission Guidelines
6. P1 Crit #2-Participate in Monday’s Zoom Critique or Post/Comment to Discussion Board on D2L “P1: 10s Crit” by Monday @noon. Comment on 3 others by Wednesday@noon (if you do not attend Monday’s ZOOM). You only need to participate in one or the other.
7. Due next Mon. 9.22: 20s–30s of p1 development in AE (post to Vimeo – and medium, if possible)
8. Due next Mon. 9.29: Complete Exercise 2
   
   SECTION III – AE
   
9. Watch Demo AE Videos
10. Review After Effects Resources + Audio Resources (as needed)

SECTION I – MOTION DESIGN

2. Motion History

This week focuses on the history of motion graphics. Next week, we will move into the principles of motion design.

SECTION II – P1

P1 Process Work

Post/Post to a story called “Kinetic Typography: Ideation” on Medium. How to post on Medium.

• 6. 10s Critique: P1 Crit #2–Participate in Monday Zoom Critique or Post/Comment to Discussion Board on D2L “P1: 10s of Development” (post by Monday@noon / 3 comments by Wed@noon. In D2L, go to Communications > Discussions). You only need to participate in the D2L critique if you do attend the Monday Zoom. Post your link to your uploaded Vimeo file and describe your audio and how you want it to feel. Make note if you are looking for feedback on anything specific.

SECTION III – AE

9. AE Demos

In After Effects, this week we will learn about track mattes. Please watch the video below and review the resources. The handout below can be used for quick reference while working through the application.

AE Handout: Intro to After Effects

Compositing is placing one image on top of another (such as text on a photo). Mattes are used to isolate one portion of an image—such as a layer mask or track matting where one layer references the transparency of another layer.

10. AE Resources

• Read: How to use Track Mattes in AE | School of Motion
• Review: Alpha channels, masks, and mattes | helpx.adobe.com

Exercise 2: 
Create a 5-10 second After Effects composition that explores how objects with varying weights move through space and synchronize with an audio track. This exercise develops skills in timing, weight, and the relationship between motion and sound.

1. File Setup and Management:
- Create a Composition: Set the duration to 5-10 seconds and dimensions to 1920 x 1080 pixels.
- Set up Background: Choose a solid color or simple gradient for the background to complement the objects.
- File Management: Organize your assets (shapes, audio, etc.) in your project folder for easy access and efficiency.

2. Object Design and Animation:
- Object Creation: Design two distinct objects (shapes, text, or vector graphics). Make one object feel heavy and the other light, using visual elements like size, shape, or color.
- Object Animation: Animate both objects to fall through the scene at different speeds. The heavier object should fall faster, while the lighter object should fall slower and bounce or float.
- Weight and Timing: Focus on how the motion of each object conveys its weight (e.g., heavy objects might fall straight down, while light objects might have a more dynamic, bouncy motion).

3. Parenting and Interaction:
- Third Object: Add one more object (shape, text, or vector graphic) that moves through the scene in some other way (e.g., horizontally or diagonally).
- Parenting: Use After Effects’ parenting feature to make the two falling objects follow this third object in an interesting, unexpected way (e.g., they could follow its path, rotate around it, or mimic its movement in some other fashion). Waiving the parenting requirement.

4. Audio Synchronization:
- Select an Audio Track: Choose a short, instrumental audio track from Free Music Archive or Pixabay. It should be upbeat or dynamic, with clear shifts in rhythm or mood.
Note: While you are welcome to find your own audio, here are a few curated options to get you off the ground quickly: (1) Cool Funk (2) Quirky Jumpy Bouncy Fun (3) Piano Classical (4) Rhythmic Drums (5) Risk (6) Sport Percussion (7) Cinematic Time Lapse
- Insert the Audio: Add the audio to your composition, ensuring it fades in at the start and fades out at the end for a smooth experience.
- Sync the Motion to Audio: Align the movement of your objects to specific beats, rhythms, or crescendos in the music. The motion should feel choreographed to the audio, with pauses, accelerations, or rotations happening in time with the music.

5. Animation Techniques::
- Choreography and Timing: Pay attention to how the objects move together. Consider how the changes in speed and direction can amplify the rhythm of the audio track.
- Scale, Rotation, or Position: Experiment with scaling, rotating, or repositioning the objects in response to key moments in the audio. For example, the heavier object could “crash” in time with a beat, or the lighter object could bounce on an upbeat section.

6. Formal Design Qualities:
- Visual Design: Use color, positive/negative space, and balance within the composition. The design should feel cohesive and thoughtfully arranged.
- Object Interaction: Ensure the objects interact meaningfully within the space and with each other, enhancing the overall motion and story.

7. Rendering and Submission:
- Render your composition in H.264 format with the Vimeo 720 preset.
- Upload your final video to Vimeo.

Week 3 Links & Notes
(specific to this week)

Live Sessions This Week:

📺 Watch: Mon 9.8 Review + Live Crit Recording → [Watch Here] approx 30m

Looking Ahead (Week 4)

Next live (recorded) session: Mon Sept 15 @ noon (only live session in Week 4)
*non-holiday weeks we will meet on Mondays

This week’s deadlines:
Wednesday, Sept. 10 @ noon

• 6. P1 Styleframes + Storyboard + Motion Test Critique – For credit, either participate in 9.8 live critique, OR provide comprehensive peer feedback on 3 peer’s styleframes, storyboard, and 2s motion test. IF you did not participate in Monday’s Zoom critique, you are required to provide styleframe feedback to 3 others in the class and review their Medium posts before giving feedback).

Monday, Sept. 15 @ noon

Weekly Content

Week 3 (though not required, it is recommended you move through in sequence. All items need to be complete by Monday @noon):

1. Watch recording of Weekly Review.
   
   SECTION I – Motion Design
   
2. Read Motion Design Considerations
   
   SECTION II – P1
   
3. Continue development of P1 Kinetic Typography
4. P1 Crit #1 –Participate in Monday Zoom Critique or Post/Comment to Discussion Board on D2L “P1: Styleframes” by Monday 9.9 @noon. Comment on 3 others by Wednesday@noon (if you do not attend Monday’s ZOOM). You only need to participate in one or the other.
5. Due next Mon. 9.15: 10s of p1 development in AE (post to Vimeo – and medium, if possible)
   
   SECTION III – AE
   
6. Watch Demo AE Videos
7. Review After Effects Resources + Audio Resources (as needed)
8. Due Mon 9.15@noon Complete Exercise 1 (posted in earlier week)

SECTION I – MOTION DESIGN

2. Motion Design Considerations

This week focuses on manipulating numerous elements and adding easing qualities to your motion designs. Consider these ideas as you work on your P1 development:

• Easing should be inspired by the qualities of the element. For example, an element with a heavier weight would fall faster and hit the perceived surface harder.
• Lead the viewer’s eye with motion. Our eyes look towards whatever is animated. If too many elements are moving in contradictory motions, it can be visually confusing.
• Pay attention to pacing. Is the type too fast or slow?
• Refine type/audio alignment. Is the type appearing too soon or too late? Consider type that remains too long and competes with any incoming text.
• Create typographic relationships. This is motion design. Rather than only making type appear and disappear with the audio, create relationships from one scene to the next.
• Lastly, don’t over-animate and consider motion unity. Repetition with variation in how things move can avoid the design creating “motion soup.” Variation is good for creating interest but too much can feel chaotic. This is a balancing act and will take practice to refine.

SECTION II – P1

P1 Process Work

Post/Post to a story called “Kinetic Typography: Ideation” on Medium. How to post on Medium.

• 4. Styleframe Critique: P1 Crit #1 –Participate in Monday 9.8 Zoom Critique or Post/Comment to Discussion Board on D2L “P1: Styleframes” (post by Mon @ noon / 3 comments by Wed @ noon. In D2L, go to Communications > Discussions). You only need to participate in the D2L critique if you do attend the Monday Zoom. Post your link to your uploaded Vimeo file and describe your audio and how you want it to feel. Make note if you are looking for feedback on anything specific.
• 5. Due next Mon 9.15: 10s of Project 1 rendered and uploaded to Vimeo WITH your audio. If necessary, continue revising storyboard or styleframes per the feedback received in crits this past week.)

SECTION III – AE

6. AE Demos

In After Effects, this week delves deeper into type (text masks), compositions (precomposing, nesting), keyframes (easing and interpolation), parenting, importing Audio Import – right click to save (demo file 1), (demo file 2), and the use of the graph editor. Please watch the videos below, review the resources, and complete Exercise 1. The handout below can be used for quick reference while working through the application.

AE Handout: Intro to After Effects

Important Note on Rendering: To render out a portion of your work rather than an entire composition, resize the work area on the right side of your timeline panel. The work area selected is the ONLY portion that will render out through the Adobe Media Encoder.

7. AE Resources

• Review Precomposing, Nesting, and Pre-rendering
• Watch Video: Parenting Tutorial | 1:08m
• Optional Extension Videos for above Demos:
  • Watch Video: Keyframe Interpolation | 5:10m (begin at 1:00)
  • Watch Video: Smooth (and sexy) Keyframe Movements | 3:25m
  • Watch (as needed) Video: The Graph Editor | 19:50m
  • Watch Video: Time Remapping | 4:42m
  • Watch Create Smooth Graphics By Fine-Tuning Your Keyframes in After Effects | Rocketstock
  • Watch Roving Keyframes (up to 7:00m) (smoothing out time using positioning)

Types of Keyframes

linear interpolation: Moves at a constant, steady speed between keyframes, like a mechanical motion. There’s no acceleration or deceleration.
example: elevator sliding up
bezier interpolation: Gives you precise control over the motion by adjusting handles manually. This allows for sharp curves and custom paths for smooth or dramatic changes. This is ideal when you need very specific control over acceleration, deceleration, and movement paths.
example: a bouncing ball manipulating the sharpness of the bounce
auto bezier interpolation: default spatial motion (moving objects) / AE automatically smooths the rate of change between keyframes, making it great for creating naturally curved motion paths.
example: a smooth camera pan or a drone flying through the air—you want the path to be curved but don’t need to manually control every part of it.
continuous bezier interpolation: auto smooth rate of change / AE automatically smooths the motion path for continuous, flowing movement. It’s a balance of manual control with automatic smoothing.
example: a leaf drifting through the wind—smooth, flowing movement with some control over how the leaf move through the air.
hold interpolation: only for temporal value / Used for sudden changes, like switching between two different values instantly without any smooth transition. Ideal for creating abrupt shifts in appearance.
example: a light turning on and off—abrupt changes.

AE Keyframe Interpolation

Curves = Acceleration and Deceleration

• A curved line means speed is changing. If the curve is going up, the object is speeding up (accelerating). If it’s going down, the object is slowing down (decelerating).
• When you see handles on the keyframes, use them to manually adjust how fast or slow the object moves. The longer you stretch the handle, the more gradual the change.
• Flat Lines = constant speed.
• Steep Curves = fast changes.
• Shallow Curves = slow changes.
• Use Easy Ease to quickly smooth out your animation. After Effects will automatically create a curve to help an object slow down or speed up gradually. This is great for a natural-looking animation.
• Ease In: Starts slow, then speeds up (like accelerating from a stop).
• Ease Out: Starts fast, then slows down (like braking a moving car to a stop).
• Keep Learning: Create better eases in AE & Roving Across Time with Roving Keyframes

Week 2 Links & Notes
(specific to this week)

• 📹 Watch Now: Week 2 Review (pre-recorded) → [Watch Here] 26m – required

Live Sessions This Week:

📺 Watch Later: Wed 9.3 Recording → [Watch Here] optional to watch—reviewed 2 students projects. Could be helpful to watch for additional guidance.

Looking Ahead (Week 3)

Next live (recorded) session: Mon Sept 8 @ noon (only live session in Week 3)
*non-holiday weeks we will meet on Mondays

This week’s deadlines:
Monday, Sept. 8 @ noon

7. Critique: P1 Styleframes + Storyboard + Motion Test – For credit, either participate in live monday 9.8 critique, OR provide comprehensive peer feedback on 3 peer’s styleframes, storyboard, and 2s motion test by next wednesday 9.10. IF you did not participate in Monday’s Zoom critique, you are required to provide styleframe feedback to 3 others in the class and review their Medium posts before giving feedback).

Next week, we will move on to Exercise 2. For P1, we will use styleframe feedback to revise styleframes and storyboards and move on to developing our first 10s of P1 for a Zoom or Discussion Board Critique.

Weekly Content

Week 2 (though not required, it is recommended you move through in sequence. All items need to be complete by Monday @noon):

1. Attend or watch recording of Monday Zoom. We will review this week’s content.
   
   SECTION I – Motion Design Process
   
2. Watch Lecture Video #1 – Lecture: Motion Design Process
3. Review Motion Process Resources
   
   SECTION II – P1
   
4. Continue development of P1 Kinetic Typography
5. Due Mon 9.8: Write or type out your audio transcript
6. Due Mon 9.8: 3 Styleframes (post to Medium)
7. P1 Crit #1 –Participate in next 9.8 Monday Zoom Critique or Post/Comment to Discussion Board on D2L “P1: Styleframes” by next 9.10 Wednesday @noon. Comment on 3 others by next Wednesday @ noon (if you do not attend Monday’s ZOOM). You only need to participate in one or the other.
8. Due Mon 9.8: Storyboard
9. Due Mon 9.8: 2s Motion Test
10. Review Kinetic Type Resources
    
    SECTION III – AE
    
11. Create a free Vimeo account. (We will use Vimeo for uploading our videos after rendering)
12. Watch Demo AE Videos
13. Review After Effects Resources
14. Begin Exercise 1: Due week 4 – the following Mon. 9.15

SECTION I – Motion Design Process

For project 1, use type creatively through various typographic treatments such as manipulating the tracking or leading to create rhythm; changing the opacity, size, or weight to create contrast; distorting through pulling, pushing, or blurring; exploring outlines, layering, or using type as a texture. Keep placement and transitions consistent. Allow enough time for the viewer to read text.

P1 Process Work

Post/Post to a story “P1 Kinetic Typography” on Medium. How to post on Medium.

5. Audio Transcript – Due Mon.

Write or Type out entire transcript of audio. Upload to the bottom of your Medium Process story you created last week.

6. 3 Styleframes (1920px x 1080px) – Due Mon.

A styleframe is a single, STATIC frame that depicts the look and feel. Visual considerations coalesce with narrative, composition, and motion. All choices must be rooted in concept. Each styleframe should be a completely different visual direction and may pull from different conceptual directions. Using the same layout/composition, and simply changing the typeface will result in a grade deduction. Spend time creating three completely different visual directions, and avoid committing to “your favorite” too early on. Each direction should be strong. You will more than likely need to explore more than 3 visual directions to result in 3 strong directions. Consider breaking your design time into a minimum of two sessions (an initial sprint + a refinement session). Upload to the bottom of your Medium Process story you created last week.

7. Styleframes Critique – next Mon–Wed @noon

Participate in next Monday‘s Zoom Critique or Post/Comment to Discussion Board on D2L “P1: Styleframes” (post by Mon 9.8 @ noon / 3 comments by Wed @ 9.10 @noon. In D2L, go to Communications > Discussions). You only need to participate in the D2L critique if you do attend the Wednesday Zoom.

8. Storyboard – Due Mon.

(suggested methods: index cards OR .ai artboards OR storyboarding paper above): Brings together the script with the visuals. Minimum of 12 frames that indicate framing, as well as how elements will enter, exit, move throughout the frame. Indicate significant events. Write corresponding audio script on back (index cards) or next to artboard (ai) and number the sequence.

9. 2s Text Animation Motion Test

Develop 2s in AE. Select any scene in your storyboard for this motion test. Render. Post to Vimeo + Import to the bottom of your Ideation Story on Medium (if you struggle posting to Medium, please just post to Vimeo)

11. Vimeo Account Creation. We will use Vimeo for uploading our videos after rendeirng. Create a free Vimeo account. Next week, we will submit our Vimeo link to the D2L assignemtns folder in week 3.

12. AE Demos

In After Effects, this week continues with interface review, keyframe basics, Shapes Layer vs Solid Layer, Single Compositions: Layers, Trimming, Splitting, Text Layers, Importing PSD vs AI (download demo files below. If issues opening, right click on link and select “save link as“), and rendering. Please watch the videos below, review the resources, and complete Exercise 1. The handout below can be used for quick reference while working through the application.

AE Handout: Intro to After Effects

Note: Please use this preset when rendering in AE.

13. AE Resources

• 30 AE Keyboard Shortcuts
• Review Managing Layers in AE
• Review Shape Layer, Solid Layer, and Text Layer
• Review this article on Layer Properties down to “adjust audio values”
• Review Animating Text with Text Animators
• Converting Text to AE from Illustrator
• Why H.264?
• AE: Video Codecs | Vimeo

Note: Settings when Importing Files into AE

Exercise 1 Steps

Exercise 1: 
Create a 5-10 second After Effects composition that animates a shape and personal mantra or quote. This exercise introduces basic animation techniques, file setup, and design principles.

1. File Setup and Management:
- Create a composition in After Effects with a duration of 5-10 seconds and dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
- Set up your project with a solid color background using a solid layer.
- Save and manage your files properly, including organizing assets in your project folder.

2. Shape Creation and Animation:
- Design a shape (e.g., circle, square, triangle) that symbolizes something personal to you.
- Animate this shape to move across the screen, incorporating both rotation and position changes. The movement should be smooth and visually engaging.

3. Text and Importing:
- Choose a personal mantra or quote that resonates with you.
- Create a .psd file with your text, ensuring the text is spread across multiple layers. Import the .psd file into After Effects as a composition retaining layer sizes.(You can use Illustrator, just remember to export as a PSD)
- Animate the text to convey the meaning or emotion behind the quote, ensuring it complements the movement of the shape.

4. Animation Techniques:
- Focus on the choreography of your animation, considering how the shape and text move together over time.
- Pay attention to timing, pacing, and how these elements contribute to the overall tone and message of your composition.

5. Formal Design Qualities:
- Ensure your composition demonstrates strong visual design, including effective use of type, color, scale, and space.
- Strive for balance, contrast, and a clear visual hierarchy that enhances the message of your personal mantra or quote.

6. Rendering and Submission:
- Render your composition in H.264 format with the Vimeo 720 preset.
Upload your final video to Vimeo and submit the link.

Exercise 1 Rubric

File Setup and Management (0–3 pts)
Composition between 5–10s; Dimensions 1920 x 1080; Vimeo Setup; Solid Layer setup.

• Weak / Missing: 0
• Average: 2.25
• Good: 2.5
• Exceptional: 3

Shape (0–3 pts)
Shape represents a personal value or symbol; moves in rotation and position throughout the scene.

• Weak / Missing: 0
• Average: 2.25
• Good: 2.5
• Exceptional: 3

Text (0–3 pts)
Personal mantra or quote imported from .psd file; Animation applied to motion text to convey meaning.

• Weak / Missing: 0
• Average: 2.25
• Good: 2.5
• Exceptional: 3

Animation Techniques (0–3 pts)
Design demonstrates exploration of software skills, choreography of shape and text movement, rotation, or scaling over time; Consideration of pacing and emotion.

• Weak / Missing: 0
• Average: 2.25
• Good: 2.5
• Exceptional: 3

Formal Design Qualities (0–3 pts)
Visual style; consideration of positive/negative forms within changing space; integration of personal theme with type, color, scale, and hierarchy.

• Weak / Missing: 0
• Average: 2.25
• Good: 2.5
• Exceptional: 3

Exercise 1 Render + Submission:

Include all elements in one composition and send to Adobe Media Encoder (wait a moment for application to open).

Select Format: H.264, Preset: Vimeo 1080p HD (final projects), Vimeo 720p HD (exercises OR projects), Vimeo 480p (personal drafts only)

Upload to Vimeo (500MB upload limit per week). If you haven’t sent the Vimeo link, Copy/paste your Vimeo video link to email and send to cass.reese@gmail.com (subject: Exercise 1). You only need to send me your Vimeo link once.