I wanted to give a short update on our short to let you all know where we are with it. It is what I spend most of my time on, so I don’t have much else to talk about.
In order to discuss our progress lets break it down into two areas, asset creation and shot creation.
Asset Creation
For the 1st short there are 3 main assets, the creature, the mechanical arm/hand, and the testing room or environment.
The Creature – We are currently in progress on the model of the creature, and getting close to finishing. Modeling is currently working with rigging to see if there are any issues that we can spot now before finalizing the model. Once the model is finalized it will go to both rigging, and surfacing at the same time. Rigging will in essence give it a bone structure that allows it to be animated, and surfacing will give it color and texture. Each step of the way brings the character more to life.
The mechanical arm/hand – This has been designed, but we have not started it in modeling yet. It is the next in line to be modeled after we finish the creature.
The Testing Room – This room has been modeled, and ready to be surfaced. I’m still looking for a surfacer to help out with the project, so once I decide on someone it will be ready to get started on. I wanted to line up a lighter before finalizing my decision on a surfacer.
Shot Creation
I’m throwing a lot into this category from writing, storyboarding, to layout.
Writing – We have the basics down, but down we are working on the details of what each test will be, and what will happen to keep them entertaining.
Storyboard – The first short is pretty locked down, so I’m about to get started on storyboarding it out. This will start to give us a better idea of where we can find humor, if it is working, and timing. Once the storyboards are completed I will edit them together into a rough cut, and scratch to see how it plays.
Layout – I’m still trying to figure out if I want to hire someone for the layout, or have the animator take care of it. Since they are so short, and the camera angles are limited I’m not sure if I need a full on layout step.
Once the assets are all finished, and the shots are set up we can begin animating and really see the characters come to life.
There are also some other things I’m working on like trying to come up with a name for the character and the shorts. Ideally the character’s name would be the same as the name of the shorts. I think a monosyllabic name would work best, but am open to other options if the name fits. I’m looking for uncommon, easy to pronounce names, and catchy. I would love to hear any suggestions you might have.
If you have not already, I hope you will join me on my journey by subscribing to my blog. If you have any thoughts or advice I would love to hear what you have to say, so please feel free to leave me any comments below. Otherwise, be sure to stay connected with me on Twitter (@MillerAnimation). Only Time Will Tell.
