I have a healthy lineup of skills I would like to master in motion design (in no particular order):
#1 learn how to execute a proper walk cycle for various characters.
#2 craft a background that moves the frame from left to right.
#3 create a scene where the POV zooms in and moves in all directions.
#4 understand and execute character rigging.
#5 understand and better incorporate the 12 Principles of Animation.
#6 employ storytelling to craft an animation for a nonprofit cause.
#7 combine motion and words to create impactful visuals.
#8 develop instructional videos centered around instructional design.
#9 convey a health message effectively.
#10 learn to make a gif. in AE.
#11 etcetera* (I am sure I will continue to add to this list as I check things off.)
Some of these goals involve honing technical skills, while others are centered around story telling. My simple aim for this project was to practice lessons in Week 5, of After Effects Kickstart, which includes using track mattes and layers. As well as, enhancing my skill in animating words in Procreate.
Per usual, the process unfolded in a somewhat reverse manner- I began with the gif. birthday creation, then found the recording of Marilyn singing deep in the Internet Archives (now that’s a place one could get lost in), finally crafting the overall design so that I could practice trim paths and mask.
Clearly, I need to add: work off a client brief as a new goal.
However, if you would like to animate illustrated artwork from Procreate in After Effects, it is Easy Peasy!
- Create Procreate illustration
- Save as a png file (transparent background).
3. Import Procreate image into After Effects.
4. Use the pen tool in AE to draw a path over your illustrative shape.
5. Put your new AE shape on top of your Procreate shape, then add a mask on your Procreate shape.
Track Matte Layer: click the arrow > Add > and then select the shape you just created in AE. |
6. Go to your new AE shape layer and add a trim path, then animate the path!
Trim Path: Shape Layer > Add > Trim Paths, or upon selecting the shape layer, we can see Add on the top toolbar palette. |
I can now retire from politics after having had ‘Happy Birthday’ sung to me in such a sweet, wholesome way
JFK
Undoubtedly, the President’s statement was made in jest. Nonetheless, for better or worse, that moment has etched itself into our history. Considering Kim Kardashian’s recent appearance in the iconic dress, it continues to invoke a sensation even today.
Internet Archive Sound Recording: https://archive.org/details/marilyn-monroe_202112
Images Wikipmedia Commons Archive: Marilyn Monroe
nikolaidesigns 
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