The 12 Principles of Animation Refresher

Who developed the 12 principles of animation in the 1930s?

• Walt Disney and Roy Disney

• Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston

• Chuck Jones and Tex Avery

• Bob Clampett and Friz Freleng

Answer explanation

The 12 principles of animation were developed by Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, two key animators at Disney, in the 1930s. Their work laid the foundation for modern animation techniques.

What is the principle that gives objects weight and flexibility while maintaining consistent volume?

• Secondary Action

• Solid Drawing

• Squash and Stretch

• Exaggeration

Answer explanation

The principle of Squash and Stretch allows objects to appear weighty and flexible while keeping their volume consistent. This technique is essential in animation to convey realism and exaggerate motion.

In the principle of anticipation, what is the "wind-up" meant to do?

• Make the animation longer

• Create dramatic tension

• Prepare the audience for an action

• Show character development

Answer explanation

In the principle of anticipation, the 'wind-up' is designed to prepare the audience for an action. It builds suspense and signals that something significant is about to happen, enhancing the overall impact of the animation.

Which principle uses camera angles, lighting, and composition to present ideas clearly?

• Staging

• Appeal

• Solid Drawing

• Secondary Action

Answer explanation

Staging is the principle that utilizes camera angles, lighting, and composition to effectively convey ideas and emotions in visual storytelling, making it the correct choice for this question.

In the Follow Through principle, what happens after the main action stops?

• A. The character freezes completely

• B. Parts of the character continue moving

• C. The scene immediately changes

• D. The animation reverses

Answer explanation

In the Follow Through principle, after the main action stops, parts of the character continue moving. This adds realism and fluidity to the animation, making it more dynamic and believable, which is why B is the correct choice.

How does the Slow In and Slow Out principle affect movement?

• Creates constant speed throughout

• Makes movement completely linear

• Creates mechanical movement

• Varies the speed of movement

Answer explanation

The Slow In and Slow Out principle varies the speed of movement by starting and ending slowly, creating a more natural and dynamic motion rather than a constant speed or linear movement.

According to the Arcs principle, what type of paths do most natural actions follow?

• Zigzag paths

• Straight lines

• Curved paths

• Angular paths

Answer explanation

According to the Arcs principle, most natural actions follow curved paths. This is because curved movements are more efficient and natural for the body, allowing for smoother transitions and better balance compared to straight or angular paths.

What is the purpose of Secondary Action in animation?

• To replace the main action

• To emphasize the main action

• To cancel out the main action

• To delay the main action

Answer explanation

The purpose of Secondary Action in animation is to emphasize the main action. It adds depth and realism, drawing attention to the primary movement without overshadowing it.

How does timing relate to physics in animation?

• It has no relation to physics.

• It only affects sound.

• It helps objects follow physical laws.

• It breaks physical laws intentionally.

Answer explanation

Timing in animation is crucial as it helps objects adhere to physical laws, creating realistic motion. Additionally, animators may intentionally break these laws for stylistic effects, enhancing storytelling and visual impact.

What is the correct approach to exaggeration in animation?

• Making everything as extreme as possible

• Avoiding any exaggeration

• Capturing the essence while pushing reality

• Only exaggerating character size

Answer explanation

The correct approach to exaggeration in animation is about capturing the essence while pushing reality. This means enhancing features and actions to convey emotions effectively without losing the core of the character or scene.