Principles of Animation: Drawing Tips

An animated cartoon usually refers to a series of drawings that correspond to each other in some way such that, if put together in sequence and run at high speed, they create the effect of live action…what we now know as moving pictures or “movies.” While in some ways we are far removed from the days of William Horner and the zoetrope, the fundamental principles of motion, optics, and human vision still govern the modern world of animation. Computers have taken the field a giant step forward, allowing for a more streamlined 3D animation process, adapting the techniques of stop motion animation. Above all though, the driving force behind the art and craft of animation is mankind’s desire to create, to imitate the anima, the breath and living soul of a thing, to bring an idea to life.

In this free video series on how to draw animated cartoons, learn the fundamental techniques and principles that guide the development of any animation idea. Our expert will walk you through some of the basic processes to animate your drawings and sketches, including materials needed, how to plot a movement path, how to draw keyframes, how to copy keyframes to separate frames, how to test your animation for timing issues, how to digitally capture your drawings, how to ink your frames, and other helpful tips. Now you have all you need to start creating!