CompuServe Messages

Ara, >> What about dividing the animation process into specialized modules… I think to a degree that its already being done, if I understand the question correctly. Someone establishes the overall look and lighting and materials; technically you could have someone just do lighting… once the materials have been selected… then you and can then parcel out the modeling, which once complete can then have the materials applied and ultimately put to motion. >> Do you think that it is going to get easier for one person to do it all… Yes… I think the most important quality an animator is going to have to have is a strong arts background. I have watched it get increasing easier and more flexible to do things over the last seven years. To me, especially with 3DS, its gotten easier to do more complex things in animation. If there's any trick to it, its going to be keeping up with the technological changes. Software that's not easy to use, unless it has a really innovative feature is going to be passed by the wayside. So as John T. mentioned in a parrallel thread, the Plug-in concept is going to give you increased flexibility while at the same time, increased ease of use. Knowing how to integrate it all is going to be the art, and as you correctly point out there's alot to know. I have a great little short story written anonlymously from a guy at ILM entitled… "Why I quit my high paying Yuppie job at ILM and went back to school." The point being, even though the guy was very technically competent, he realised that what he really needed was a solid foundation in the arts. Of course the whole process can be broken down just like it is in Film and Video but the beauty of it is, it doesn't have to be. That's going to be dependent on the skill and artistry of the individual. -JE