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When we think of animation, it’s easy to immediately connect it with the world of 3D design and computer-generated imagery (CGI). These are the core elements that define modern animation. However, there’s still room for older, traditional animation techniques to shine, as they remain relevant in today’s visual storytelling landscape. many iconic cartoons from the past century owe their roots to cel animation. While much of the process can now be streamlined with advanced design tools, cel animation remains a crucial component of many animation projects at Animotions Studio. By blending traditional techniques with modern technology, we continue to bring timeless animation styles into the present.
Disney’s cel animation films were at the heart of animation in the 20th century, engaging audiences across generations. The evolution from hand-drawn to traditional animation marked a revolutionary shift in the look and feel of films. Even as animation has evolved, the impact of these classic techniques remains visible in today’s productions.
So, what exactly is cel animation, and how does it work? Our complete guide will break it down for you, providing all the essential details you need. By understanding the process behind this art form, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for how it continues to influence contemporary animation.
What Is Cel Animation & How Does It Work?
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The term “cel” refers to the transparent plastic sheets used in the creation of cel animation, a traditional technique for producing hand-drawn 2D animations. This method allowed for meticulous detail and precision in animation, making it a cornerstone of early animated films.
Animators start by carefully sketching their scenes, and once the designs are finalized, they transfer them to cel thin, see-through sheets of plastic. Each cel features one drawing, with the outline on one side and the colored fill on the opposite side. This careful layering of drawings helped bring characters and backgrounds to life, creating depth and fluidity in the animation. Photographs are then taken of these cels, stacked over background images. When these images are played at a rate of 12 or 24 frames per second, they create the illusion of fluid, continuous motion. The process requires a great deal of time and effort, but the result is a timeless visual storytelling technique.
While traditional cel animation was once the norm, it is now rarely used in modern animation due to the dominance of digital media. However, the artistry of cel animation continues to inspire contemporary animators, who look to its techniques for guidance.
Today, most 2D animation still draws inspiration from the cel technique, but the majority of the work is done digitally. Advanced software tools are increasingly employed to streamline the process and speed up production, making animation more efficient and accessible. Despite the shift to digital, the core principles of cel animation remain influential, preserving the magic of hand-drawn animation for future generations.
The History of Cel Animation
Cel animation has a fascinating origin and evolution, with its roots tracing back to ancient times when devices like zoetropes and phenakistoscopes were used to create the illusion of motion through a series of images. Cel animation, as we know it, was invented in the early 1900s.
Throughout its history, cel animation evolved alongside technology. In the 1930s, films like Flowers and Trees introduced vibrant new colors, while iconic works like Steamboat Willie (1928) and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) became milestones. Steamboat Willie revolutionized animation by featuring synchronized sound, while Snow White became the first full-length animated feature, showcasing groundbreaking artistry and securing animation’s place in film.
Today, cel animation has evolved into a blend of traditional and digital methods, preserving its classic charm while benefiting from modern technology. While hand-drawn techniques remain beloved, digital tools now enhance the animation process, offering greater efficiency and creativity.
The Cel Animation Process: Key Techniques, Tools, and Steps.
Cel animation is an intricate, time-consuming, and costly process that demands a large and skilled workforce to bring the vision to life. Each step requires careful coordination and expertise, making it a highly specialized form of art.
The journey begins with a script, which is handed over to a storyboard artist to lay out the key scenes and actions. Once the timing of the shots is determined, a lead animator sketches each key pose and records the timing details on a dope sheet. This step is critical as it ensures the flow and rhythm of the animation are consistent and in line with the director’s vision. The dope sheet is essential for the entire production process, providing the specific duration for each frame and ensuring the cels are arranged in the correct order.
Every team member, from the director to the colorist, relies on the dope sheet to maintain consistency throughout the animation. The precise timing and frame sequence outlined in the dope sheet is crucial for achieving the desired emotional impact and continuity. After the main poses are sketched and the dope sheet is confirmed, junior animators fill in the in-betweens, smoothing out the movement between key poses. This step adds fluidity to the animation, ensuring it feels natural.
Once the layout and animation for a frame are approved, the pencil sketches are passed to an inker, who transfers the artwork onto thin, translucent plastic cels using black ink. The inking process requires a steady hand to preserve the integrity of the original drawings, ensuring that every detail is clearly defined. Following this, the colorist steps in, carefully filling in the inked lines with cel paint, ensuring a clean and consistent color application. The coloring process is just as crucial, as it breathes life into the animation, adding depth and vibrancy to each frame.
As the animation progresses, more artists are involved in inking and coloring additional cels, while others focus on creating detailed backdrops for each scene. The backgrounds are typically more intricate and shaded to reflect the scene’s depth, especially if the character moves through it, requiring a larger, more detailed background design. The collaboration between animators, inkers, colorists, and background artists ensures that every scene aligns with the director’s vision and maintains visual coherence.
Once the cels and backdrops are completed, they are handed to a photographic crew. The cels are carefully layered according to the dope sheet, and photographs are taken of each frame. The sequential play of these frames creates the animation, transforming still images into fluid motion. The process of photographing each frame is meticulous and requires precision to capture the motion accurately. Through this painstaking process, the magic of cel animation comes to life, creating an animated world that engages and captivates audiences.
Materials Used in Cel Animation: Key Tools and Techniques
Plastics played a pivotal role in the evolution of cel animation. Without the introduction of thin, flexible sheets of translucent, colorless plastic, the process of cel animation simply wouldn’t have been possible, marking a major shift in animation production techniques and expanding creative possibilities.
The first plastic ever created was cellulose nitrate, which, although groundbreaking, wasn’t an ideal material for animation. It was prone to yellowing, creasing, and releasing potentially hazardous gases. Additionally, it was highly flammable and degraded quickly, making it less than ideal for long-term use in animation studios, presenting significant challenges for artists and preserving the art.
To prolong the lifespan of the cels, the animation industry transitioned to cellulose acetate. While this material was a significant improvement, it still deteriorated over time, although at a much slower rate. One of the side effects of acetate degradation was the “vinegar syndrome,” a distinctive smell that arose due to its chemical composition, which posed a threat to the longevity of animation collections.
Cel paint, used in the animation process, is a thick, opaque acrylic or gouache. Like the cellulose acetate, this paint also suffered from deterioration over time. A common issue that arises with older cels is “paint lifting,” where the paint begins to peel off the plastic or crack, compromising the artwork’s integrity and making preservation efforts more complex.
Disney, known for its collection of historic cel animation artwork, has dedicated significant resources to preserving these irreplaceable pieces. The company has established a specialized storage area designed to maintain optimal conditions, protecting the cels from excessive dryness or humidity. Disney’s approach to cel preservation is a testament to the company’s commitment to safeguarding its animation legacy, ensuring that future generations can appreciate this timeless art form. An in-depth article on their cel storage system can be found here.
Cel animation and computer animation
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Hand-Drawn Animation vs. Computer-Generated Design
Hand-drawn animation uses traditional methods, where each frame is manually created, offering a unique artistic touch. In contrast, computer-generated animation relies on digital tools and software for precise, efficient production. Both methods bring creativity to life but differ in their approach, resources, and execution.
1. Production Methods:
Hand-drawn animation relies on traditional techniques, where each frame is crafted by artists on celluloid sheets, commonly known as cels. In contrast, computer-generated (CG) animation uses advanced software and digital tools to create animated sequences. This evolution has significantly altered how animation is approached, blending art with innovation for diverse storytelling possibilities. While both styles achieve stunning results, their processes reflect the changing dynamics of creativity and technology in animation.
2. Artistic Approach: Algorithm vs. Artistry
Classic Disney animators, such as those behind Snow White, were primarily painters working with pens, pencils, and watercolors to bring their vision to life. This method aligns closely with fine art. On the other hand, CG animators employ 3D modeling, algorithms, and digital tools to create their works. While equally creative, the process is rooted in technology and differs significantly from the hand-created nature of traditional animation. Each style has its unique charm, offering viewers a variety of visual experiences.
3. Team Sizes and Resources
Producing traditional hand-drawn animation requires extensive resources and large teams, as every frame is meticulously created by hand. This labor-intensive process contrasts with CG animation, where smaller teams can often produce entire films more efficiently, thanks to the streamlined capabilities of modern technology. Despite the differences, both approaches demand dedication and collaboration to bring compelling stories to life.
The Transition to the Digital: Key Challenges, Advancements, and Benefits
Remarkably, Disney’s last feature film created entirely with traditional cel animation was Oliver & Company in 1988. This marked the end of an era for hand-drawn animation, as the company transitioned into a new phase of digital innovation, forever changing the landscape of animation production.
The following year, The Little Mermaid (1989) marked a groundbreaking shift, as it introduced a new coloring technique known as CAPS (Computer Animation Production System). This system, a collaboration between Pixar and Disney, aimed to digitize the cel animation process to reduce production costs while maintaining the high quality Disney was known for, ushering in a new age of animation technology.
CAPS revolutionized the workflow by enabling artists to load animator sketches digitally, streamlining the inking and coloring process. This allowed for greater efficiency, enhanced creativity, and paved the way for future digital innovations in animation. The system became a crucial tool in Disney’s animation studios, changing the industry by encouraging the adoption of more digital methods in animation production and transforming the way animated films were made.
As technology continued to evolve, Disney began incorporating 3D animation techniques into their traditionally 2D animated films. Software like ToonBoom gradually replaced the older methods used in traditional 2D animation, providing more flexibility and speed for animators while maintaining the artistic integrity of the films.
Despite the rise of digital animation tools, some animators and studios still prefer to create rough sketches by hand, a practice that holds a certain nostalgic charm for animation enthusiasts. Today, however, cel animation is largely relegated to the nostalgic animation buffs and historians who appreciate its craftsmanship, ensuring that its legacy remains alive in the minds of animation lovers.
Watching footage of a scene from Snow White painstakingly recreated by hand highlights the inherent limitations of cel animation, shedding light on why such projects took an immense amount of time and effort to complete. The meticulous process serves as a reminder of how far animation technology has come since then and how today’s digital tools allow for greater speed and precision, transforming the animation process in profound ways.
Is 2D animation on the way out?
As a result of the underperformance of several 2D animated features, Disney has transitioned to exclusively producing 3D animated films. The company has no plans to create any more 2D films beyond Winnie the Pooh in 2011, marking the end of an era for traditional hand-drawn animation at Disney. This shift was partly due to the changing tastes of audiences and the high cost of producing 2D films, which led Disney to focus on more profitable and technically advanced 3D productions.
While Western feature films may have largely moved away from 2D animation, Japan continues to produce Oscar-worthy anime, keeping the art form alive and thriving. Studio Ghibli, known for creating beloved 2D animated films like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, has remained at the forefront of the genre. These films continue to enjoy criticism, and there are no signs that the studio will shift to 3D animation anytime soon. The enduring popularity of Japanese anime is proof of the continued relevance of 2D animation in global cinema.
Although 2D animation may no longer be Disney’s focus, it continues to hold a strong presence in television and feature films. Many children’s shows remain successful with 2D animation and show no interest in leaping 3D, demonstrating that the medium still has a significant place in the entertainment world. This enduring popularity in TV shows highlights that 2D animation is still a powerful tool for storytelling, especially in capturing the imagination of younger audiences.
Even though cel animation is no longer widely practiced, the 2D animation industry is flourishing. Artists around the globe believe the skill and dedication required to create 2D animation will endure, ensuring that this timeless art form remains relevant long after the tools used to create it have evolved or been replaced. The legacy of 2D animation will continue to inspire future generations of animators, preserving its rich tradition while adapting to modern techniques and technologies.
Which Films and Shows Are Cel Animation Legends?
Cel animation legends include Disney classics like Snow White and The Lion King, known for their artistic, hand-drawn charm. Shows like The Simpsons and Dragon Ball Z also became iconic with their distinct cel animation styles. These timeless works continue to inspire and shape the animation landscape.
Memorable and Influential Examples of Timeless Cel Animation
In the late 1930s, Disney revolutionized animated films by introducing color, movement, and a sense of realism through cel animation, showcasing the technology to the public for the first time. This innovation helped shape the future of animation, with some of the most iconic traditional animated films emerging from this period, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, and Fantasia. These films not only pushed the boundaries of animation but also established Disney as a pioneer in the entertainment industry, setting the standard for animated storytelling for generations to come.
1. Snow White and the Seven Dwarves (1937):
Snow White is often cited in discussions about the evolution and future of cel animation by critics and industry professionals. Premiering in 1937, it made history as the first full-length animated feature film produced in the United States. Animators meticulously inked character outlines by hand onto each cell, setting a new standard for what was possible in the art of animation. The groundbreaking techniques used in the film laid the foundation for future animated classics, demonstrating the potential of animation as a powerful storytelling tool. Its success marked a pivotal moment in the history of cinema, influencing generations of animators to come.
2. Sleeping Beauty (1959):
What makes the original artwork from Sleeping Beauty so stunning? This question was raised to ArtInsight readers in 2015. While the colors were hand-inked for the 1959 Disney classic, the ink designs were then transferred to the cells using innovative xerography technology. This advancement allowed Disney to create more visually complex frames with significantly less effort. The result was a film that stood out for its rich, vibrant visuals and intricate backgrounds, elevating it as a masterpiece of animation. The use of xerography not only streamlined the process but also contributed to the film’s timeless beauty.
3. The Lion King (1994):
Disney had been creating iconic cel animations for nearly fifty years by the time The Lion King was released. Its debut marked the height of what became known as ‘the Disney Renaissance,’ a period of widespread critical acclaim for Disney films. To this day, The Lion King is celebrated by many as one of the best examples of Disney’s animation at its peak. The film’s stunning visuals, unforgettable soundtrack, and emotional depth resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a timeless classic. Its success solidified Disney’s position as a leader in animation and storytelling.
4. The Princess and the Frog (2009):
Since Disney acquired Pixar Animation Studios in 2006, CGI animations have dominated the media landscape. However, in 2009, Disney released The Princess and the Frog, a hand-drawn animated film directed by the same team behind The Little Mermaid. This marked one of the last Disney films to be created using traditional hand-drawn animation techniques. The film’s charming, nostalgic style was a tribute to the studio’s classic animation roots, even as the industry rapidly digital methods. The Princess and the Frog stands as a testament to the enduring magic of hand-drawn animation.
Cel Animation vs. Digital Animation: What’s the Difference?
Cel animation relies on hand-drawn cels and meticulous frame-by-frame photography, resulting in a unique, handcrafted aesthetic. This process, though time-consuming, offers a depth of artistry that remains unmatched. In contrast, digital animation utilizes software for faster production, offering greater versatility and the ability to explore diverse visual styles. Digital methods also allow for rapid iterations and enhancements, making it a preferred choice for many modern productions. While traditional cel animation is still cherished for its nostalgic appeal and artistic value, digital techniques enable more dynamic storytelling and streamlined workflows, making animation more accessible to a wider audience.
Similarly, 3D architectural animation uses cutting-edge digital tools to create immersive visual experiences, allowing architects and designers to present their projects with both accuracy and creativity. This technique brings complex designs to life, showcasing them in ways traditional methods can’t achieve. Each method brings its distinct contribution to the dynamic realm of animated visuals, offering a balance between artistic expression and technological innovation. Whether for animation or architecture, the evolution of these techniques continues to redefine the way we tell stories and present ideas.
Final Thoughts
You might be thinking that this animation style is outdated, but in fact, it’s far from it. Many iconic animation studios, like Pixar, Illumination, and Disney, still use this technique, although they’ve updated it with the latest technology to give it a fresh, modern twist. Cel animation continues to offer a timeless charm, blending traditional artistry with contemporary innovation. It remains a go-to choice for creating captivating, hand-created visuals that resonate with audiences of all ages.
At Animotions Studio, we follow the same approach. Our talented team of cel animators is dedicated to delivering high-quality cel animation, which remains one of our core services. We combine the artistry of classic animation with the latest tools and techniques, ensuring that every frame brings your story to life. Whether you’re looking to evoke nostalgia or add a touch of elegance to your project, our cel animation team is ready to create something truly special.
Interested in learning about the other animation services we provide? Take a look at the list below:
- 2D Animation Services
- 3D Animation Services
- Motion Graphics Services
- Stop-Motion Animation Services
- Whiteboard Animation Services
Impressive, right? We’re a full-service video animation studio. Whether you need a 2D animated explainer, a 3D animated video ad, or a whiteboard animated demo video, we’ve got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What was Disney’s last cel animation?
Disney’s last feature film created using traditional cel animation was Home on the Range (2004). After this, Disney transitioned to 3D animation, with Chicken Little (2005) marking their first fully 3D animated feature. While Home on the Range was the final full-length film made in this style, Disney had already begun shifting towards digital techniques for TV shows and shorts before then. This marked the end of an era for Disney’s iconic hand-drawn animation.
What are the advantages of traditional animation?
Traditional animation, particularly cel animation, offers several advantages:
- Timeless Appeal: The hand-drawn process creates a classic, nostalgic aesthetic that resonates with many viewers.
- Artistic Control: Animators have complete control over every frame, resulting in detailed, nuanced visuals.
- Unique Style: The manual nature of traditional animation gives each project a distinctive charm, which can be difficult to replicate with digital methods.
Is cel animation still used today?
While cel animation is no longer the primary method for animated films, it is still used in some independent films and niche projects. It is also occasionally combined with digital techniques to create a hybrid animation style. Moreover, some studios and animators continue to champion it for its artistic value.
How much can cel animation cost you?
Cel animation can be quite expensive due to its labor-intensive process. The costs can vary depending on the project’s complexity, the number of frames, and the number of animators involved. For feature films, the cost can range from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars. Independent or short projects may have lower costs but still require significant investment in both time and resources.
What are the challenges of traditional animation?
Traditional animation comes with its own set of challenges:
- Time-Consuming: Every frame must be hand-drawn, which is a highly labor-intensive process. Creating a full-length feature film can take several years.
- Expensive: The costs of materials (such as cels, paint, and ink) and the large number of animators needed can make traditional animation much more expensive compared to digital animation.
- Limited Flexibility: Once a scene is drawn, making changes can be difficult and time-consuming. This lack of flexibility can make it harder to adjust a scene or sequence without significant effort.
