Motion Graphics Designer’s Important Skills for Success

Motion graphics has turned out to be an indispensable part of the digital world. From television commercials to stupefying game graphics, online videos to complicated CGI in Hollywood films, the increasing popularity of motion graphics is noticed everywhere. It is the advancement of computer technology and the reduced cost of developing such graphics that act as contributory factors of their high popularity. Owing to the rising popularity of motion graphics in Singapore, many students in this country are choosing motion graphic designing as a career option. Now, the question is: what skills you should develop to succeed as a motion graphics designer?
 

 

 Graphic Design Skills:

The job of a motion graphic designer is to bring graphic characters to life using animation. In this instance, the professional can use his knowledge and skill of animation to make the graphic images created by a graphic designer move. However, it would be an added advantage for the motion graphic designer if he himself develops graphic design skills.

 

 A Good Understanding of Fundamentals in Animation:

As a motion graphic designer, you need to have an in-depth understanding of  animation to make the two-dimensional elements move with ease. If you do not have the required knowledge and skill, the animated characters would fail to appeal the audience. You should understand as to where to exaggerate and where you shouldn’t. A stunning design may fall flat if it is not animated proficiently.

 

 3D Design Skills:

3D elements have successfully made their place into motion designing. You will often trace it in commercial advertisements and in 3D logos. Thus, to keep abreast with the new trends, you need to develop 3D design skills.

 Knowledge of Typography and Color Theory:

Apart from being used extensively in motion design, typography oft serves as the driving force behind the moving graphics. Looking from this perspective, you should acquire knowledge of typography and know about what it consists of, what compliments a design and what appeals the audience.

 

Again, as a motion graphic designer, you should have a clear understanding of how to utilize colors in the motion graphics. You should know about what color conveys what mood and expression aptly. To cite an example, if you are trying to develop motion graphics on spring, you should make most use of green, red and yellow colors. Here, the use of white, gray and blue would be wrong as they are used to portray winter.

 

Apart from developing the aforementioned skills, you need to acquire technical skills. Now, the motion graphics are developed using computer systems, and computer knowledge and technical mastery will be able to help you use the new and upcoming systems and excel in the industry. When it comes to motion graphics in Singapore, the institutions offering training to the future professionals focuses on enhancing the technical skills of their students.

Choosing the right software for character animation

When you are just beginning to work with animations and yet to decide the best software to accomplish your work, then it can be difficult to make a choice out of all the animation software programs out there. With certifications animation design Singapore, you can begin to master the craft of character animation. Whether you prefer to work in 2D or 3D, these are some of the most widely used software for character animation:













2D character animation

Adobe Flash: This is the most commonly used 2D animation software, since it is quite easy to use and is also less expensive than many other animation programs. There are animators who don't like the fact that it is vector based because it tends to have that flash-look, but if that is not a problem for you, then Adobe Flash is definitely worth it for 2D character animation.

Adobe After Effects: Although basically an editing software, After Effects is also a great choice for 2D animation. After Effects gives you great control when creating rigs for 2D, and using the puppet tool is very convenient and intuitive.

Toon Boom: Toon Boom has a great range of animation packages for both beginners and veterans. It offers a user friendly set of animation programs that has advanced rigging systems, effects and camera tools. If you are comfortable with vector based programs then Toon Boom can be a great software at a cheap price which helps you achieve most of your 2D animation needs.

3D character animation
Bryce: If you are a beginner looking for a fairly easy program, then Bryce may be the thing for you. Great for environment modelling, it also offers character animation features now. One of the oldest programs around, Bryce may be great for beginners but advanced animators may not find enough challenges or thrill with this one.

Poser: One of the best programs for 3D character animation, Poser has been around since the mid 90s and still packs a punch. It helps you quickly animate 3D character with its library of human and animal meshes. Although this may not be the ideal program for those looking for a more complex software, it still is one of the best and relatively easy program for beginners.

Blender: While Bryce is for beginners, Blender is for those looking for something advanced. Blender offers top notch features that any animator can ask for and most importantly, it is completely free. It takes up less disk space and has a great online community and a vast number of tutorials.

Maya: One of the more complex programs, Maya is among the best when it comes to animations. With its brilliant interface, simulation features, and the motion tracking tool, Maya should be your go-to 3D character animation software if you're looking for an advanced program.

These are just a few of the programs for animations, with several more available in the market. While price and features may vary, it ultimately depends on the animator's needs when it comes to choosing software for character animation.

Studying in Singapore- A look into Diploma Courses in Animation

Despite being a state of scholars, Singapore has in truth, long been a nation of skill-based individuals. Singapura as it was once known, had its roots as a bustling port for trade. This continued to be a trend up until the time of its colonialism by the British.

However, after the British left and Singapore became independent in 1965, the nation’s manufacturing industry blossomed under the guidance of its leaders. Since then, Singapore has always levied on its skilled manpower in order to make up for its lack of resources. The rapid development of media and technology has not escaped the country’s leaders, and the past two decades have seen the country develop its infrastructure accordingly.

In the past decade especially, the animation industry in Singapore has made extraordinary breakthroughs, in terms of influence, presence in the international industry, infrastructure and government support. Singapore is now the envy of its region having been involved in blockbuster hits such as Godzilla, Pacific Rim, Clone Wars: The Animated Series and more.

Education for Animation, has evolved accordingly with the industry, and several government and private institutions have shown their presence in recent years by producing alumni that have graced these very blockbuster productions that have put Singapore on the map in terms of Animation.

One such institution is MAGES Institute of Excellence. With a strong focus on game design, as well as animation courses, their modules range from the basics such as Character Game Design, to more complicated programming and art modules.Learn diploma courses in animation & give shape to your imagination.Create  your own animation video.Check this funny animation video......

Its Diploma courses in Animation even has a progression into an Advanced Diploma programme that allows you to choose one of three specialities involving, Visual Effects, 3D Character Modelling where you will upgrade your character design skills, as well as Character Animation.

Such specialized schools who are closely tied to the industry and its practitioners, place a high emphasis on ensuring that its students and its curriculum meet the dynamic needs of the industry. As a bonus, the school not only offers long courses, but professional short courses for practicing professionals to add-on or to refresh themselves in their respective field.

If you have ever considered picking up a tertiary course in animation, or wish to improve on existing skills such as character design for games and film, take a look-see at institutions and colleges in Singapore before you consider pricier options in traditional animation powerhouses such as in the United States.

3 Reasons to Take Up Diploma Courses in Animation

A Short Guide for Prospective Creative Students in Singapore

You’re fresh out of secondary education, and it seems to you that the academic route isn’t really your calling. As a kid, you’ve always been drawn to the Sunday morning cartoons in a different way. While everyone else around you stared transfixed at the screen, you wondered with curiosity on the inner workings behind such light-hearted magic. In school, you enjoyed art classes because it stimulated you, allowed you to create. I know, because I’ve been there.

Choosing to walk a non-traditional path is scary, after all we’d been brought up to believe that it’s important for us to study hard; to be good at Mathematics and the Sciences if you ever wanted to amount to anything. Art? That’s just a past-time. It’s been drilled into our heads over and over again, so much so that we start to believe that it’s true. I took the leap, got frightened, and turned my back on my dreams, only to find myself being drawn back to it, but that’s a story for another time. It did teach me a lesson though, and the first reason why you should take up Diploma Courses in Animation….

Because You Want To. The most important reason, and the simplest. I don’t mean to proceed with reckless abandon, but if being an Animator appeals more to you than say, being a Biochemist, why force yourself? Don’t let future income be a deciding factor in your journey, because to be honest, there are way too many variables in the future that could add or damage your earning power anyway. Do what you love, be good at what you do, and success will follow.

Times are also not what they used to be. The creative industry in Singapore has grown so much over the past 10 years, thanks to the efforts of the government and those within the industry. The growth in the Animation industry in fact, has been rather apparent. The arrival of industry giants, Lucasfilm Animation Singapore (LAS) in 2004 has also paved the way for smaller studios to flourish and boom. I guess what I’m saying is… Strike While the Iron is Hot. Granted, job stability is still something that could be worked in such a dynamic environment, but the industry has not looked as good in a long time, and seems like it is only to be getting healthier.

 

The truth is, if you’re still reading this, it means that you’ve considered this career path to some extent but might still be undecided. There is nothing much else for me to say to convince you though, except that Animation is one heck of a fulfilling industry. What you create is tangible, and the satisfaction of seeing your works being displayed… I met someone from Lucasfilms once, and he told me about how amazing it was to have taken part in the production of the movie, Pacific Rim, and watching it onscreen for the first time, was simply mind-blowing.

With how varied Animation is, you can even choose a specialization. Visual Effects, Character Animation and 3D Modeling Courses are available here at MAGES Institute of Excellence, for those who wish to further refine their skillsets into something more specialized. For example, specializing in 3D Modeling Courses will of course open up more markets for you. Besides the traditional roles of in films and gaming, 3d Modelers are also needed in interior design, architecture, the medical industry and for stage/set design. Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Want to find out more? Leave a question in the comments or drop us a mail-enquiry@mages.edu.sg

Animation Insights: What to Look Out For in an Animation Education

Hello again!

Today I’d like to share a little bit about 3D Animation Courses in Singapore, and hopefully manage to shed some light when first starting off in the industry.

When we mention an education in animation, there are several things to look out for. First off, are you looking for a generalised education? Or are you looking at specialising into a field such as Character Game Design and Animation? The danger of picking up general 2D and 3DAnimation Courses in Singapore is that Animation in itself is largely wide scope. A general education is best fitted as an introduction for anyone looking into entering the world of Animation and is requiring a base.

The Diploma in Animation from MAGES is one such course, and its modules provide a solid foundation for aspiring animators to find their niche. However, it is up to them to go further and develop their chosen specialty in order to avoid the trappings of being known as a generalist. Some may opt to develop these skills on their own, which is fine, but for those who prefer a guiding hand to boost their future portfolio and career while they seek out specialisation, the Advanced Diploma in Animation at MAGES is a good bet. It offers specialisation into Visual Effects, 3D Modeling and character game design and animation.

However I’d like to emphasise that for an animator, or any skill-based industry for that matter, what matters is not the level of certificate that you have. Your transcripts provide a glimpse into the training you have received, but at the end of the day, what tells your story is your portfolio. It is what future employers will ask for, when they are seriously considering you for a position. As such, it is good when looking out for schools and institutions that understand the focus on employability after education. Look out for modules in their courses that focus on portfolio development.

Well, that is all the time that I have for today. If you do have any questions however, feel free to leave a message on the blog. Cheers everyone, and thanks for reading!

Giving Life to Images-A Look into Diploma Courses in Animation

Diploma courses in animation have been increasingly popular these days because of the rise in demand for Animators. The field of animation was once only limited to the film industry, where companies such as Pixar and Disney were seen as the main options for an animator. These days, animators have an embarrassment in riches when it comes to opportunities.

Prospective students intending on picking up an animation diploma should know however, that there are many aspects to animation, and that it is important that when choosing their animation diploma, that they should be aware of the modules their chosen institutes are offering.

The first question to be asked is, what does being an animator mean in today’s context? Animators create 2D and 3D images in motion for animated films, videogames, commercials, and music videos. They create images, as well as special effects using film, video or computer software.

Animators essentially make objects or characters appear lifelike by manipulating light, colour, texture, shadow, and transparency—or manipulating static images to give the illusion of motion. They create 2D and 3D images depicting objects in motion or illustrating a process, using computer animation or modeling program, and design complex graphics as well as animation. Animators also design animation and graphics, create storyboards, and create designs, drawings and illustrations. They create, plan, and script animated narrative sequences, develop multimedia presentations and technical illustrations, and assist with background design and production coordination.

Here at MAGES Institute of Excellence, our animation diploma is structured to provide students with a solid foundation and consists of core modules such as:

– Perspectives and Composition

– Character and Environment Design

– History and Principles of Animation

– Digital Imaging

– Digital 2D Animation

– Storyboarding and Scriptwriting

– 3D Modeling in Maya

– Texturing and Lighting

– Character Rigging

– Character Animation

Our advanced animation diploma takes this education a step further by offering specialization modules for each of the following disciplines; Character Animation, 3D Modeling, as well as Visual Effects. MAGES also offers Part-Time Diploma Courses in Animation for those unable to commit to a full-time course. Our Part Time Animation Courses  are for 3 days a week, with each lessons lasting about 3 hours, and participating students go through the exact same curriculum as the full-time students. If part time animation courses do not meet your needs, and you are seeking to instead brush up on your skills or simply there for an introductory course, MAGES also offers professional short courses in animation.

At MAGES Institute of Excellence, we believe in providing a suitable learning environment to cater to our students’ unique needs. Of course, they say that seeing is believing, more so in animation than anywhere else. Visit us, and let MAGES show you how to take that first step into one of the world’s most exciting and explosive industries.

 

Pursuing an Education Overseas-Choosing the Right Animation Course in Singapore

About Animation

Animation refers to the process of creating a continuous motion and shape-changing illusions through means of a quick-moving display of a sequence of static images that minimally differ from each other. Animators are essentially artists who specialize in the creation of animation.

The Growing Industry

  
The Animation industry has seen a boom lately, with more and more companies switching to Animation as an alternative outlet to the more traditional methods used. Where animation has always been the domain of film and video games, industries such as aviation, marketing and advertising have looked towards animation as an alternative and fresh outlet to support and propagate their products and services. 

Why Singapore?

In an age where technology has increased accessibility, students are no longer restricted to institutions within their vicinity. With its modern facilities and state-of-the-art infrastructure, Singapore has seen a constant influx of international students in recent years as it stakes its claim to be the region’s premiere hub for education.

The Creative Technologies faculty in particular has seen demand rise in recent years, with many businesses moving away from the use of traditional media to propagate their products and services. A quick peek online for example, will bring out the names of many reputed institutions offering the best animation courses in Singapore. These courses are designed to arm students and prepare them for the industry in the most efficient way possible.

Choosing the right Animation Course in Singapore for you

We have established that prospective students are spoilt for choice, with a number of reputed institutions offering animation courses in Singapore. While it is a “happy problem”, choosing the right course that is tailored to your needs is imperative that you receive the optimum education needed to achieve your ambitions. After all, a journey that starts in the wrong direction will often lead to one losing their way before they can reach their goal. Understanding your goals and planning your path can be tricky, but understanding what each course and the modules they offer can save you from much trouble later on.

Animation Diploma

A typical diploma in animation would entail coverage of processes in production stages as well as the typical skills needed for animation. Diploma courses in animation often include

• Perspective and Composition 
• Character and Environment Design 
• History and Principles of Animation 
• Digital Imaging 
• Digital 2D Animation courses 
• Story boarding & Script-writing 
• 3D Modeling Courses 
• Texturing and Lighting 
• Character Rigging 
• 3D Animation courses

Most motion media colleges often offer a degree pathway after the animation diploma, often leading to an advanced diploma in animation before having the option to pursue a degree in a more specialized field. Most of these institutions often offer part-time animation courses as well to cater to those who have less time and cannot devote themselves to a full-time education.

Aside from part-time animation courses, industry professionals also find themselves flocking to these motion media colleges to update their skills and stay relevant. Institutes often offer short courses that specialize in polishing a certain skill.

3D modeling courses, 2D Animation courses, and Digital Sculpting courses—to name a few, are all available via short courses that allow participants to pick up or enhance their skill in the subject matter, and enabling them to earn a professional certificate to showcase their proficiency at the same time.

In short, the animation industry represents a burgeoning source of opportunity, and Singapore’s world-class infrastructure and accessibility make its institutes a top draw for those seeking to take their first step into the industry.