Rotoscoping is an animation technique in which designers can trace the outline of an object or character’s movements through previously recorded video. This is an interesting approach to studying the natural timing and movement for new motion projects. It also provides an opportunity to experiment with new methods, leaving behind any preconceived notions that animation requires technical drawing skills.

For this final exercise, students will contribute to a group video by rotoscoping a series of individual frames (approx 15-16 each).

Hand render with any drawing materials you like: pen, pencil, crayon, marker, paint, lipstick, coffee, etc. You may draw on standard paper stock but you may choose to experiment with other materials (newsprint, used packaging, cutouts, or other things). This variety and some surprises will make the final output much more interesting!

Procedure

1. Go to Rotoscope Exercise folder.
2. Locate the folder Image Source and download the specific files you are assigned Assigned Files
3. Print these out in the studio
4. Using a new piece of paper, trace over your images
5. When the drawing is complete, scan and upload files to > Image Scans folder

Important Details

<aside> 💡 It is very important to read and follow these details!

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Tracing your images When tracing over images, centre the paper be sure it is on the image accurately and consistently positioned for tracing the entire sequence. This will take a bit longer but is essential in making smoother animations. You will be grateful you have paid attention to this small, important tip and are likely frustrated if you don’t!

One suggested method is to tape the printed image to a window and draw on top with the same size of paper. By using the same size, it maybe easier to centre the drawing.

Scan your drawn images Use the flatbed scanners in the studio to scan your drawings. Do not use your phone app. These are okay for documents but will be insufficient for good quality image making.

Make sure the resolution is set high, to AT LEAST 150 dpi, so that it looks great when we project the animation.

Do not change the image size - all images should be same as original 1440 × 1080 pixels

When scanning, your images make sure that you pay attention to your image registration point so the images don’t bounce all over the place when they are animated. Once scanned in, opening all scans in Photoshop and aligning them there. It is time consuming, but it is worth it and you will much more satisfied with the results. Keep at original resolution 1440 x1080 px

Exporting and saving your scans

After scanning, save your images as a good quality jpgs. This will be consistent with all the other scans and make for better final imagery.