CompuServe Messages

Ara, (What a nice, readable, civilized message! Wow.) I certainly know what you mean about the growing need for specialization in producing animation. I've already recognized the need for such as I know that there are others who can build meshes better and faster than I can so I use the services of such "specialists" regularly. I guess most of us also use specialists when we buy textures and other images. I think in the future we'll see more of that as things are getting easier they are also getting more complex. I mean that although producing animation today is easier than it was back when one had to write raw code to get a box to rotate on screen but we have so many more tools and techniques to use. Think what has happened with filmaking: The first filmakers were just guys with a crank-operated camera. Then they started getting specialized help and now a movie set is a collection of highly skilled specialists in many, many different disciplines. As Alan discussed (he is pretty smart for an ex-rock&roller) it is a wonderful thing to be able to do everything yourself. It's very satisfying. But as the pool of competent and talented animators grows, one begins to become more aware of one's weaknesses. Kinda the way I feel after watching the demo reel. Then the desire to have one's work look really good will take precedence over the desire to do it all yourself. I can see the day when I'll finish an animation and send it to someone who can light it just right. I'm ready. Alec Jason