Introduction
Within this animation workshop we were taught how to create
the intro to a video effectively. The techniques we used are transferable to
other areas of video and animation production within Adobe After Effects as are
those learnt previously.
Before getting to work on our animations we first watched a
few examples of how graphic packages look and the way the work. One of which,
to which I took influence from was the opening title to Jo Jo In The Stars.
JO JO IN THE STARS from STUDIO AKA on Vimeo.
As you can see the title has a nostalgic feel to the use of
monochrome colouring and therefore creates an atmosphere of past memories. The
title typeface is created out of seemingly tinfoil backed cardboard, cut out in
a very rough angular form. The same goes for the surrounding stars and visible
coming from these shapes is thin wire holding the elements in place, suggesting
a traditional means of production. It is set to a slow paced Jazz track that creates
a sense of calm, melancholic reflection.
Task
Firstly we were required to create a set of objects and
type(though the type would need rasterising beforehand) to which we would use
within our animation.
I decided to incorporate what I had learnt about Modernism and Post-Modernism into this and so created freeform lettering to make up the words Post – Modern. To further reflect the feel from these movements I created some geometric shapes to sit around the text that would infer to the primary shapes that the modernists used often. The post-modern element of the design is that of the wayward typeface through the freeform lettering and to add an element of industrialisation to this, I manipulated the text as to reflect carved metal or Chrome.
3-D Rotating Text from Nicole H.D.W. Sinclair on Vimeo.
 |
| Shapes Created In Illustrator |
For the purpose of altering the colour and appearance of
these shapes within After Effects, we need to ensure they are saved within
Illustrator as having a black fill with no outline. I made sure each element
had its own layer so that I could move them independently.
 |
| Import Illustrator File As A Composition |
In after effects I now needed to import the illustrator
document. I went to import file and selected import as “Composition – Retain
Layer Sizes” and made sure that Illustrator/PDF/EPS Sequence is unticked. This
means that whatever sizing the original file is set at will stay the same
within After Effects, though this does not affect After Effects own separate
composition sizing. Before doing this step I ensured the Illustrator file was
set to the same dimensions as that which I will need for the video, this
reduces any need for resizing.
The next step turns the 2-D vector imagery into a 3D Layer,
although they wont look 3-D at first the effects we apply later will create
that look. The next step turns the 2-D vector imagery into a 3D Layer,
although they wont look 3-D at first the effects we apply later will create
that look. To turn the 3D element of manipulation on, turn on the switch that
resembles a cuboid, this is the “3D Layer” switch.
 |
| 3D Layer Switched On |
In order to rotate the objects horizontally as to “turn” the
letter over, open up the transformation properties and as simply click and drag
on the co-ordinates as needed. The same
procedure applies for the x and y co-ordinates. The next step was to apply a
texture to the shapes.
I first looked for scratched metal textures as to reflect
the impression I want the image to give off. I made sure these textures were
free to use and/or under the Creative Commons license. The below links lead you
to where I obtained the textures used:
In order to apply the texture first you need to pre-compose
each separate element, this creates a composition for the selected layer. You
will need to apply the image to each shape individually. Firstly toggle the
switches/modes, active the track mat and set this to “Alpha Matte”. This
applies the image to the area occupied by the above layer, in this case a
letter. You can use the standard copy and paste shortcuts to quickly and easily
transfer the same layer style across to each one.
 |
| Texture Applied To Surface - Alpha TrkMat |
 |
| Vignette - Feathered Mask |
Finally create a simple block colour for the backdrop and
then create one last layer which will guide the viewers eyes. This final layer
will be used as a Vinette, create a solid and using the masking options, set
the blend mode to subtract. Now you just need to invert the mask and alter the
mask’s feather settings as required.
Idea
I decided to incorporate what I had learnt about Modernism and Post-Modernism into this and so created freeform lettering to make up the words Post – Modern. To further reflect the feel from these movements I created some geometric shapes to sit around the text that would infer to the primary shapes that the modernists used often. The post-modern element of the design is that of the wayward typeface through the freeform lettering and to add an element of industrialisation to this, I manipulated the text as to reflect carved metal or Chrome.
Final Video
3-D Rotating Text from Nicole H.D.W. Sinclair on Vimeo.
How did I find it?
I found the techniques used to create this affect to be
quite easy to get to grips with and look forward to employing the different
skills I have learnt into future experimentations and projects. Not only can I
think of ways to employ these skills into possible further experimentations but
also the individual techniques can be used in conjunction with different
effects we have previously learnt.
