MI5018 - Compositing for Animation

What will I learn on this module?

On this module you will learn the fundamental principles of compositing for animation. Compositing is a crucial skill within the animation industry and can open up employment opportunities within the TV, Film and VFX industries. Contemporary animation is often comprised of images from different sources, be it live action, hand drawn or computer generated. You will gain technical knowledge of how to composite 2D, 3D and live action elements, using a range of industry techniques. This will include channel operations, masks, rotoscoping, tracking, green screen, keying and matte painting. Following on from the visual scripting aspect of the 3D Games module, you will learn node-based compositing, and how this is helpful for non-destructive workflows. These processes are crucial for live projects in which the client requires last minute changes.
You will continue to develop an overview of how different software packages relate to each other and how to capitalise on the strengths of each package to support the creative use of technology in the animation process. Compositing processes can be utilised in order to generate unique visual styles, which you will be asked to explore throughout the module.
You will learn how to plan animation in a more optimal way, using compositing strategies to save time and build editable projects. The module is underpinned by a critical approach to thinking about hybrid animation aesthetics and what it means for multiple image sources to be combined in the production of a single animation.

How will I learn on this module?

You will gain an overview of the context and theory behind the module during an initial contextual lecture. A series of technical workshops will introduce key technical skills and processes. You will be expected to build on workshops with independent research, reading and making.
You will document idea development and technical experiments via your blog, reflecting on the learning process throughout the module.
You will learn through the physical making and production of animation using compositing techniques. You will also learn from feedback given during presentations and group crits.. The latter part of the module will consist of supervised studio time, in which tutors work alongside you in the studio to support you with your work.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be given a brief and guide which outlines all of the important information about the module. This will be available on the eLearning Portal, alongside detailed presentations and resources provided by the tutor.

Tutors will provide verbal feedback during classes, group crits., individual tutorials and formal presentations. You will also take part in peer assessment activities such as play testing other student’s work and offering feedback. You will receive written verbal formative feedback after the mid-term presentation and summative feedback after final submission. Tutors are also contactable via email.

You will have access to video training resources that help reinforce and consolidate technical processes from taught sessions. A list of the most helpful resources is available on the module guide.

Due to the high level of technical challenge posed by this module, a technician will also support workshops and studio sessions, supporting you with any technical issues you may have.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:

1. Understand the principles of compositing for animation.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

2. Be proficient with a range of compositing workflows used within animation production.

3. To be able to identify, select and use the most appropriate compositing techniques required for different projects.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

4. To employ curiosity in the development of ideas and use of software.

5. To understand the ethical responsibilities that accompany image manipulation processes.

How will I be assessed?

You will submit an animated sequence that demonstrates professional and creative application of compositing strategies.
You will also submit a 500 word critical analysis of your work and link to your blog, containing the development work for your project.

Early in the module you will be given verbal feedback on your initial responses to the brief. You will continue to receive verbal feedback from staff and peers in workshops, group crits., individual tutorials and supervised studio sessions.

Following the final submission, you will receive written summative feedback on your achievement against all of the MLOs, using the Faculty Feedback sheet and a final grade will be given. Feedback will be provided within 20 working days of submission.

Your work should be submitted via the eLearning Portal. On the module page in the eLearning Portal, there is a folder called ‘Assignment Submission’ you will find all the necessary links in this folder.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years and 4 months

School Design Arts and Creative Industries

Location Sri Lanka

City Sri Lanka

Start January

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

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Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

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Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

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The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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