01  Digital animation essentials

Get comfortable with Adobe Animate and learn how an animation is assembled.

You will explore  Drawing tools • timeline • layers • keyframes and in betweens • symbols and nested symbols • tweens • frame rate • resolution • export and rendering formats

Put it into practice  Make a short motion test with key poses, in betweens and a clean export.

02  Visual and movement foundations

Use the elements of design to give shapes clarity and personality. Observe acting and the mechanics of motion: line of action, balance, centre of gravity, gesture and weight.

You will explore  Shape, form and composition • observation and gesture • body mechanics • posing for readable action

Put it into practice  Create a pose sheet and a brief motion study before animating.

03  The 12 principles in action

Study each principle through demonstration, analysis and an exercise. The lessons build toward character performance rather than memorising definitions.

You will explore  Timing and spacing • physical action • visual clarity • appeal and performance

Put it into practice  Develop a collection of short exercises and bring the techniques together in an animated character scene.