How to Make Claymation Films
Claymation filmmaking has in recent years become something of a forgotten field since the advancement of computer imaging, but don't let that stop you! A claymation movie is one of the most artistic ways to express yourself on film. You'll use stop-motion techniques that require constructing each shot. The first animated movies were made in this style and some still are today, including Nick Park's Wallace and Gromit series of short films.
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Instructions
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Decide on a plot. What story do you want to tell? Try to include characters and locations that you think will look good in clay and that you are capable of constructing. Discuss your plot with a friend to discover any plot holes or potential scenes you may not have discovered
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Write a scene synopsis and shot chart. Plan what every shot in your film will look like, including what angle you will shoot from, what elements will occupy the frame, and how long each shot will remain on screen. Draw each shot as best you can.
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Construct your characters and sets. Decide on how realistic you want your elements to look; some claymation tries for a photorealistic approach, while some attempt to resemble a cartoon. Working with clay requires only a few tools, but you'll definitely need a straight edge for surfaces. Assemble elements such as the eyes, ears, and toes separately and combine them only when all elements are complete to avoid potential mixing or mushing. Consider hiring an artist or sculptor to help you, or enlist a friend or significant other for cheap labor.
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Set up and shoot your film. Unlike traditional movies, claymation movies require each frame to be photographed separately. The best way to accomplish this is to take digital pictures of each frame on a tripod and then insert each picture into a digital video program such as iMovie. Any movement you wish to see on-screen will necessitate physically moving your clay into your desired position. Depending on your style of animation, one second of screen time may involve anywhere from 5-30 shots; in general, you want to move your characters and objects as tiny a distance as possible to allow for more fluid movement..
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Construct and edit your film in movie editing software. The software will allow you to arrange your frames in your desired sequence with ease. If you wish to add sound to your claymation movie, you'll be able to record voices or insert MP3 files into the video with the movie editing software as well.
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Tips & Warnings
Watch as many claymation movies as you can get your hands on; the best way to become a good maker of movies is to view them widely.
