Discover how to create a CG superhero animation for VFX
The Gnomon Workshop has released From Previs to Final Animation, a detailed guide to creating a full CG superhero combat animation for a visual effects shot.
The tutorial, which comprises over three hours of video footage, was recorded by Elaina Scott, previously animation supervisor for Supergirl at Encore Hollywood.
As well as VFX for movies and TV, the techniques it sets out can be applied to game cinematics and previs.
A complete guide to staging and animating a superhero fight sequence for VFX
During the tutorial, Elaina Scott reveals her workflow for creating a full CG fight sequence for a VFX shot, from previs through to final animation.
She begins by illustrating how quickly it is possible to create a narrative using camera lenses, basic movement and lighting, by taking an existing animation and creating a rough set for it.
Scott then goes on to discuss how to find reference material for a superhero animation, and how to use it to create dynamic, appealing poses for a combat sequence.
She also discusses the differences between animating a realistic fight and the more exaggerated mechanics of a superhero fight.
With her superhero punch animation complete, she then integrates it into a city setting, demonstrating how to capture the moment cinematically through camera work.
Finally, Scott blocks in the complete fight sequence within the cityscape, before polishing the animation.
The animation uses character rigs created by Châu Võ Bá Trường and CG characters created by Dan Eder and Péter Józsa, animated in Maya and composited in After Effects.
About the artist
Elaina Scott got her first job in animation working on The South Park Movie: Bigger, Longer and Uncut, going on to work on The Simpsons and movie franchises including Iron Man, The Avengers and Transformers.
She has also worked at Encore Hollywood, where she was animation supervisor for Supergirl on The CW, and is currently senior animator at Romero Games.
Pricing and availability
From Previs to Final Animation is available via an online subscription to The Gnomon Workshop, giving you access to over 300 tutorials. Subscriptions cost $49/month or $499/year.
Read more about From Previs to Final Animation on The Gnomon Workshop’s website
Full disclosure: CG Channel is owned by Gnomon.