2D v 3D Animation

Looking at the two style of animations it is hard for me to choose what i prefer. I got into animation through 3D work i did on a Computer Game Development course i took a few years back. I never enjoyed computer programming but creating such 3D animated pieces (including a moving Bender character from Futurama) in XSI modelling package really opened my eyes to what i wanted to do. Since then i have really only dabbled in 3D work in both the Lightwave & Maya packages. All these are similar packages to the one i was used to they still took a bit of time to get used to due to the subtle differences in short cuts and so on. From what i did i was happy with the packages and llog forward to pick them up again next year.

2D animation on the other hand is all i have really developed my skills in in the last year and a half. Using programmes such as Toon Boom Studio & Macromedia Flash i really have began to get a taste for it. Especially in Toon Boom which i use regulary even if it is just to quickly plan out a short animation. Even though my drawing skills are average at best i have still managed to create some decent work with the packages. It is easy to use and gives a whole range of options for you to do.

In terms of looks all my favourite animations are really 2D for the likes of Futurama, Family Guy and The Simpsons. That really shows 2D animation at the top scale along with the likes on anime. As for 3D i am constantly amazed how Pixar somehow continue to better themselves with each film. In terms of plot Toy Story is still my favourite Pixar piece but in terms of look Ratatouille really has raised the bar, well until their next venture, Wall E, hits cinema.

I still appreciate both forms of animation, 2D really has grips on the TV world due to its easier production cost and shorter timescales. 3D is firmly the norm for an animated film nowadays. The real front runner is obviously Pixar but others are trying and in the likes of Ice Age they have succeeded. For me i would prefer to work in probably 3D work. It offers so much more in terms of results and was the original inspiration for me to take this course. I really just like the way on how i can go off and keep tweaking at a model design until i am completly happy with it from all angles.