W15 Final
Wrapping Up My Countdown Animation Project
This countdown animation has been such an exciting journey, filled with challenges and moments of growth. What started as a simple idea to combine 2D and 3D animation turned into a creative, dynamic project that I’m super proud of.
The Process
I focused on giving each number its own unique animation while keeping the whole countdown consistent in style. From bold textures like iron and silver to colorful patterns, I experimented with designs to make everything pop. The transitions between numbers were key to making the animation flow smoothly, so I used techniques like morphing, ball transformations, and glitch effects to keep things fresh and exciting.
Challenges I Faced
There were plenty of challenges along the way! Creating smooth keyframes in Cinema 4D was tricky, especially with movements like the balloon explosion or the waving hand. Post-editing in After Effects was another puzzle, with tons of precomps and keyframes to manage. Staying organized with proper file names and backups saved me so much time.
Working on character animation was a whole new level of difficulty. GEO’s feedback was a huge help, especially when it came to making motions like running, jumping, and waving look natural. His tips really helped me push the animation to the next level.
What I Learned
This project taught me a lot about combining creativity with technical skills. I learned to embrace happy accidents, like the balloon inflating unexpectedly, and trust my instincts when experimenting with new ideas. Keyframing frame by frame, while time-consuming, helped me improve timing and curves, making every movement feel more polished.
Final Thoughts
The final countdown animation is more than just numbers ticking down—it’s a blend of creativity, problem-solving, and a lot of hard work. From the girl catching the alarm to the fireworks at the end, I love how everything came together. It’s a fun, vibrant piece that really shows my growth as an animator.
A big thank you to my tutor, George, for helping me improve my character animation. Your valuable feedback and encouragement in every class have been incredibly motivating and have pushed me to do my best.
I’m so excited to share this animation. It’s been a long journey, but seeing it all come to life has been so rewarding. Can’t wait for what’s next!
Making of reel
-> Check how I published this project on my portfolio: https://www.behance.net/gallery/209912513/Countdown-Motion-Graphics