Animation Fundamentals
Demonstrations of timing, spacing, weight, and clarity
Bouncing Ball
Demonstrates timing, spacing, gravity, and weight
A study showing timing (the speed of movement) and spacing (the distance between frames), which are critical for conveying weight and realism
Click twice on the lower right-hand corner to see a larger version of the animation
Heavy Ball
Demonstrates weight, acceleration, and minimal rebound.
A rigid-body timing study showing how a dense object behaves under gravity, with fast acceleration, a small rebound, and a rapid loss of energy.
Click twice on the lower right-hand corner to see a larger version of the animation
Small rubber Ball (coming next)
Shows high energy, elasticity, and exaggerated timing.
Skills needed for characters, FX, and expressive motion.
Click twice on the lower right-hand corner to see a larger version of the animation
(coming soon)
Ping-pong ball
Superball
Ball swinging on pendellum
Foundamental #5
Shows high energy, elasticity, and exaggerated timing.
Skills needed for characters, FX, and expressive motion.
Click twice on the lower right-hand corner to see a larger version of the animation
Foundamental #6
Light Ball — Demonstrates squash, stretch, elasticity, and high energy retention
Caption (optional):
A study in exaggerated timing, spacing, and energy conservation using classic squash-and-stretch animation.
Foundamental #7
Coming soon
Foundamental #7
Coming soon
Foundamental #8
Coming soon
These animations demonstrate the core principles of animation: Bouncing Ball & Heavy Ball: Understanding the difference in how various weights move allows you to master timing (the speed of movement) and spacing (the distance between frames), which are critical for conveying weight and realism. The balls provide a foundational understanding of the physics of motion, including squash and stretch (for flexibility) and the effects of gravity. Pendulum: Animating a pendulum reinforces the concepts of overlapping action and follow-through, demonstrating how different parts of an object move in sequence and continue moving after the main action stops. It also requires precise control over arcs (the natural path of motion).Rubber Bouncy Ball: This project synthesizes many of the above skills, requiring a strong application of squash and stretch and rapid timing to sell its high elasticity and energy, refining your ability to portray different material properties realistically. Collectively, these exercises teach you how to analyze and replicate real-world physics, effectively communicate an object's weight and material properties, and bring believable motion to your characters and scenes.
Come back soon
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Visit this page again as I populate it with examples of animation fundamentals
Animate@LeimertAnimationStudio.com
(323) 806-3178