CGTalk - Short film advice

Sanby

12-14-2005, 11:04 PM

Ok, after being inspired for years by 3D short films, I have decided to embark on a journey of my own. Today I watched Egghunt. That was the straw that broke the cammels back, and I decided, I will make my own if it kills me. Anyway, to make a long story short, I know pretty close to jack about making my own 3D short, so this is going to be a great learning experience. I am wondering if anyone has any suggestions, especially about reference material. I am looking for some good books, on short films, writing stories, creating movies, that kind of stuff. Also, does anyone know if The animators survival kit is a book worth getting?

Sanby

White Rabbit

12-15-2005, 09:29 AM

It's absolutely worth getting. It will teach you much about putting life into caracters, give them weight, thus credibility.

But that's a step ahead of the journey - I think you should start with writing your storyline down, in plain prose. Then get some help (book or "teacher") to tell you how to cut it down into (terminology varies here) scenes (or sequences), which are groups of events happening in a same place at the same time, then into (no idea what they're called in english, cuts maybe?) which is, one "cut" starts when your camera is switched on and stops when it's switched off.

After that comes the storyboard... technique... design... actual animation... It's a bloody long journey - but soooo worth it :)

Your plots and storyline and choice of media WILL change many times along the way, and you'll probably realize it's nowhere near an easy thing to achieve. But that's ultimately part of the fun :) I'm only a student in 3D animation, but if i can help any, just ask.

faridz7

12-15-2005, 02:39 PM

white rabbit said it all...but bear in mind that richard williams only has a small section on "acting" in the animator's survival kit.

and 1 tip...planning is the key!

rokandic

12-15-2005, 04:12 PM

If you're interested in a book that covers short film production I recommend Inspired 3D Short Film Production (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1592001173/qid=1134662871/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/103-5843782-7887814?s=books&v=glance&n=283155). It's a good book that goes through all stages of a short film creation process.

Richard Williams' book is one of the best animation resources beside Illusion of Life. Must have for any animator.

Cheers,
Rok

Sanby

12-15-2005, 08:44 PM

thanks for the advice and suggestions, they are hugely appreciated. I will look into all the books that you guys have mentioned. I think I've got my story idea, so I am starting to brain storm plot ideas, and will hopefully start a first draft of the script soon.

Sanby

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