Are you trying to create a logo design for your newly established business and don't know where to start?
Want to make your business emblem innovative and distinct?
Then you should use graphic arts for your brand mark.
Graphic art logo design is one of the most popular design styles in the logo industry. Here, the designers work with painted, calligraphic, drawn and computer generated illustrations which gives them a wider margin for creativity and innovation as compared to photographs or clip art for trademark designs.
But there are also a few types within graphic arts within which vector icons are the best.
Want to know why? We'll tell you.
1. Images can be expanded or reduced without losing their original resolution:
Vector icons are made up of points, lines and curves instead of pixels. It means that the mathematics of these pictorials allows it to be expanded or reduced to any size and it would still not lose its original resolution. This can be quite advantageous for companies that use different type of marketing mediums from bill boards to business cards because they don't need to design an individual trademark for each platform.
2. The images look high quality:
The best part about these types of images is that they look high quality compared to other picture formats as there are no jagged edges. Whether the visual is printed or used in a poster, it does not lose its high quality look.
3. They are perfect for detailed illustrative work:
Because they are illustrated through lines and curves instead of pixels or square, they are perfect if the figure that you are trying to craft demands intricate details. Other image formats will never be able to do that level of justice to your delicate design as vector shall.
4. They can easily modified:
Since these illustrations are constructed with individual objects and shapes, they can be easily modified which means that their shape and colors can be altered effortlessly.
5. Softwares for creation can be easily found:
There are many great types of software available in the market through which vector art logo designs can be created quite easily. This means that if you are a small business owner who wants to create his own trademark design, then he can easily purchase one of those softwares and create a high quality business symbol through his creativity provided that he has knowledge of software application usage.
The only disadvantage that this type of art serves is that the icons look more animated than real. They cannot produce a 'continuous tone' photographic look that some other graphic formats can. But even after that the vector images are perfect for most of the business trademark types. For example, you can create this type of emblem for corporate companies, dress designers, hotels and restaurants, car manufacturers or performing arts group.
Senin, 20 November 2017
Minggu, 05 November 2017
Common Misconceptions About Forensic Animations
There seems to be many preconceived notions about forensic animations and their overall use in litigation. Many times, lawyers or accident reconstructionists will say that "An animation can show whatever the animator wants" or "Animations are difficult to admit in a court of law". However, to a forensic animator, this is also like saying, that your accountant can "fix your books". In reality, it is far from the truth.
Misconception #1 - "An animation can show whatever the animator wants"
Perhaps it is the fact that so much of what we see on television and in films is altered with lifelike special effects that we tend to associate anything with 3D visualization with more than a hint of skepticism. Ironically, much of the same software used to animate films such as "Spiderman" or "Lord of the rings" is also less known to be used in scientific visualization, research and forensic animations. People may associate the fact that an experienced special effects animator is capable of creating surreal, yet realistic looking effects. Therefore, it must not be accurate.
The greatest difference between a forensic animation and just any other type of animation is the "forensic" part. This implies that there is a large effort in understanding the details of what is being animated and that there is a large emphasis ensuring a high level of accuracy. An animator can spend more than 70% of his time on activities related to the verification of data and ensuring accuracy in the animation.
An experienced and qualified forensic animator would tell you that a large effort goes into building and checking each step of the animation process to the correct and accurate dimensions. In fact, very little is left to the imagination since most recreations are based on accurate data typically provided by the expert witness. A simple example is the terrain data of a particular scene. This can be obtained by means of a total station along with the positions of important features such as signs, traffic lights, debris or tire marks on the roadway.
Even the animation and motion of objects in a 3D recreation is typically based on information or data provided by the expert witness. This data is often obtained through careful calculations or through the use of simulation software. In the case of simulation software, the data can be directly converted or imported directly into the 3D animation software, leaving little room for error.
There may be cases where the forensic animator is provided with less than ideal information, however, even in these rare instances, an experienced forensic animator will have enough knowledge to ensure that the basic rules of geometry and physics (i.e. motion) are applied and adhered to.
Misconception #2 - "Animations are difficult to admit in a court of law"
Somewhere along the way, there have been animations which were so poorly constructed or erroneous they simply could not have been allowed in court. It would seem that these cases tend to stick in the minds of litigators and cause reluctance for future use of what is a perfectly acceptable and effective use of technology.
Normally, it is an inexperienced animator or lawyer which does not follow some of the basic rules of demonstrative evidence.
Some key points to consider when considering a forensic animation are:
1. The animation needs to support the testimony of the expert witness and should be considered an extension of the witness' report. The expert witness should be directly involved in authenticating and reviewing the animation.
2. Disclose the animation well in advance of the trial date. Evidence needs to be disclosed in a timely manner and the opponent requires time to cross examine the evidence.
3. The animation fairly and accurately conveys the data or matter that it purports to convey or depict. The animation should not be prejudicial in that it outweighs the probative value.
4. The animation should be relevant.
5. The forensic animator should be prepared to testify that the works created are based on sound technology, process and algorithms such that the final works are a reflection of the expert witness' opinion.
There are, of course, many other factors to consider which may be case dependent. Further materials and references are available for review including a paper entitled "The Admissibility of Demonstrative Evidence in Jury Trials:" Written by Barbara Legate of Legate and Associates and available at the AI2 forums (www.ai2-3d.com/Forums).
Today, most forensic animations are admitted into court since there are greater considerations and groundwork taken into account to ensure the accuracy, validity and quality of the animations. By choosing an experienced forensic animator and by adhering to the rules of demonstrative evidence, the risks associated with inadmissibility are greatly reduced.
Misconception #3 - "Animation and Simulation are the same thing"
There are two distinct ways to develop an animation and although the end result may try to achieve the same thing, they are fundamentally different in the means by which they are created.
A simulation is typically the output of a program which is operated by a qualified accident reconstructionist. The program has a set of key behaviours (i.e. mathematical equations) which define the movement of objects when given a set of known parameters. It is up to the accident reconstructionist to define all the input variables and ensure they are accurate. Once this is complete, the program is initiated to calculate all the positions of objects through some specific time.
The simulation software may also output the motion of objects in the form of exportable tabularized data and/or animation. However, most manufacturers of simulation based software programs have not been able to achieve the same level of realism as most animators are able to do with 3D visualization software. There may be a number of reasons to this which deal with further complicating already complex software or that perhaps the time spent on development is in the mathematics behind the simulation software and not primarily in the visualization or presentation of the data.
Another important issue which is common with simulation software is the validity of the data available. The old saying "garbage in, garbage out" is applicable. Since a simulation would typically be used as substantive evidence, it can get difficult to prove something is accurate without having solid data to back the animation up.
Animation
Demonstrative Evidence - illustrates how something works or how something happened based on the testimony of the expert or eye witness. The animator, not the software is responsible for accurately moving and positioning objects over time.
Does not try to prove anything, but just facilitates the account or testimony of a witness.
Simulation
Substantive Evidence - Takes actual dynamics and physics into account. The objects are not animated by "hand", but by software based on calculated inputs or data.
Tries to prove that something may have occurred a certain way.
Visually, an animation is more eye catching and realistic.
Simulations are improving in their presentation, but are still lacking realism.
On the other hand, an animation may be based on an eye witness testimony, calculations of the accident reconstructionist or from data output by a simulation package. All the events of an animation in a typical 3D visualization package are calculated and setup by the animator. Animations are almost always disclosed as demonstrative evidence and they do not try to "prove" anything. They are merely another form of expressing the opinion of the expert witness and are always presented as demonstrative evidence.
Misconception #4 - "We need it yesterday".
There have been many advances in the technology that forensic animators use which has improved the speed and efficiency of their work. Computer processing speeds have grown exponentially and the advances in software have allowed animators to do things which were simply not possible several years ago. There are even tools provided to animators which allow them to write custom scripts for repetitive tasks and specialized functions.
These advances in speed and ability would make one think that the time to complete an animation should also have been greatly reduced; however, this is not the case.
Part of this reason is simply the nature of the animation process. Much work needs to go into the understanding of the case, reading reports, taking measurements and verifying accuracy. This part alone can take a large part of the man-hours to create the animation.
Also, creating the 3D models ("scene assets") necessary to populate the animation is still a time consuming process. There are some advantages when a "library" of standard models is used (i.e. stop signs, light poles, traffic signs), however since each case is different and the specific details need to be reflected in the animation (such as the scene topography or specific damage to the vehicle), time must be spent to customize or create models from scratch.
Technology has effectively brought many more options to the realm of visualization which means that more work is being done in a similar amount of time. If one were to compare the time to produce an animation which was done 15 years ago to the same animation done today, there would be a noticeable decrease in the time to complete. However, the overall quality of presentation would certainly not be as appealing to the eye.
Due to media such as television and film and video games, people have become accustomed to a higher level of realism. The same animation which was used 15 years ago in a court of law, may not be as appealing or credible to an audience today.
It is important to leave as much time as possible to get a high quality animation and to allow time for the opponents to cross examine the animation. On average, a typical animation from a reputable forensic animator requires anywhere from a few weeks to months to complete depending on the availability of information, number of scenarios/views requested, level of realism and complexity of the animation. Unfortunately, there are still no "magic buttons" to do the manual work of a forensic animator.
Misconception #5 - "It's much too expensive"
Perhaps the most important piece of advice is to use a reputable and experienced forensic animator. There are some animation houses which specialize in advertizing or graphics which like to take on forensic work, but without a qualified and experienced forensic animator, there is a higher risk that the entire animation may be inadmissible.
A qualified forensic animator will bring to light all the options available, provide sound advice and set clear objectives up front. Setting clear objectives is possibly one of the most overlooked points. Without knowing the expectations, the goals of the animation are often missed or not well communicated resulting in last minute changes and edits which further increase the cost.
It is important the lawyers and accident reconstructionists understand the animation process and where the amount of man-hours are typically invested. Most forensic animators estimate or charge based on an hourly rate; however there are some which still prefer to quote by the case/project.
The general rule of thumb is that as the level of realism, complexity, number of scenarios and camera views increases, then so does the cost. This is why it is important to understand what is being requested of an animator. For example, changing a camera view slightly has a smaller impact on cost than does adding different animation scenarios with objects in different locations.
By taking a second look at forensic animations and their misconceptions, it is clear that there needs to be some understanding of the animating process by the client. Having an up front and open discussion about the objectives of the animation are imperative to having a positive impact on the case.
Misconception #1 - "An animation can show whatever the animator wants"
Perhaps it is the fact that so much of what we see on television and in films is altered with lifelike special effects that we tend to associate anything with 3D visualization with more than a hint of skepticism. Ironically, much of the same software used to animate films such as "Spiderman" or "Lord of the rings" is also less known to be used in scientific visualization, research and forensic animations. People may associate the fact that an experienced special effects animator is capable of creating surreal, yet realistic looking effects. Therefore, it must not be accurate.
The greatest difference between a forensic animation and just any other type of animation is the "forensic" part. This implies that there is a large effort in understanding the details of what is being animated and that there is a large emphasis ensuring a high level of accuracy. An animator can spend more than 70% of his time on activities related to the verification of data and ensuring accuracy in the animation.
An experienced and qualified forensic animator would tell you that a large effort goes into building and checking each step of the animation process to the correct and accurate dimensions. In fact, very little is left to the imagination since most recreations are based on accurate data typically provided by the expert witness. A simple example is the terrain data of a particular scene. This can be obtained by means of a total station along with the positions of important features such as signs, traffic lights, debris or tire marks on the roadway.
Even the animation and motion of objects in a 3D recreation is typically based on information or data provided by the expert witness. This data is often obtained through careful calculations or through the use of simulation software. In the case of simulation software, the data can be directly converted or imported directly into the 3D animation software, leaving little room for error.
There may be cases where the forensic animator is provided with less than ideal information, however, even in these rare instances, an experienced forensic animator will have enough knowledge to ensure that the basic rules of geometry and physics (i.e. motion) are applied and adhered to.
Misconception #2 - "Animations are difficult to admit in a court of law"
Somewhere along the way, there have been animations which were so poorly constructed or erroneous they simply could not have been allowed in court. It would seem that these cases tend to stick in the minds of litigators and cause reluctance for future use of what is a perfectly acceptable and effective use of technology.
Normally, it is an inexperienced animator or lawyer which does not follow some of the basic rules of demonstrative evidence.
Some key points to consider when considering a forensic animation are:
1. The animation needs to support the testimony of the expert witness and should be considered an extension of the witness' report. The expert witness should be directly involved in authenticating and reviewing the animation.
2. Disclose the animation well in advance of the trial date. Evidence needs to be disclosed in a timely manner and the opponent requires time to cross examine the evidence.
3. The animation fairly and accurately conveys the data or matter that it purports to convey or depict. The animation should not be prejudicial in that it outweighs the probative value.
4. The animation should be relevant.
5. The forensic animator should be prepared to testify that the works created are based on sound technology, process and algorithms such that the final works are a reflection of the expert witness' opinion.
There are, of course, many other factors to consider which may be case dependent. Further materials and references are available for review including a paper entitled "The Admissibility of Demonstrative Evidence in Jury Trials:" Written by Barbara Legate of Legate and Associates and available at the AI2 forums (www.ai2-3d.com/Forums).
Today, most forensic animations are admitted into court since there are greater considerations and groundwork taken into account to ensure the accuracy, validity and quality of the animations. By choosing an experienced forensic animator and by adhering to the rules of demonstrative evidence, the risks associated with inadmissibility are greatly reduced.
Misconception #3 - "Animation and Simulation are the same thing"
There are two distinct ways to develop an animation and although the end result may try to achieve the same thing, they are fundamentally different in the means by which they are created.
A simulation is typically the output of a program which is operated by a qualified accident reconstructionist. The program has a set of key behaviours (i.e. mathematical equations) which define the movement of objects when given a set of known parameters. It is up to the accident reconstructionist to define all the input variables and ensure they are accurate. Once this is complete, the program is initiated to calculate all the positions of objects through some specific time.
The simulation software may also output the motion of objects in the form of exportable tabularized data and/or animation. However, most manufacturers of simulation based software programs have not been able to achieve the same level of realism as most animators are able to do with 3D visualization software. There may be a number of reasons to this which deal with further complicating already complex software or that perhaps the time spent on development is in the mathematics behind the simulation software and not primarily in the visualization or presentation of the data.
Another important issue which is common with simulation software is the validity of the data available. The old saying "garbage in, garbage out" is applicable. Since a simulation would typically be used as substantive evidence, it can get difficult to prove something is accurate without having solid data to back the animation up.
Animation
Demonstrative Evidence - illustrates how something works or how something happened based on the testimony of the expert or eye witness. The animator, not the software is responsible for accurately moving and positioning objects over time.
Does not try to prove anything, but just facilitates the account or testimony of a witness.
Simulation
Substantive Evidence - Takes actual dynamics and physics into account. The objects are not animated by "hand", but by software based on calculated inputs or data.
Tries to prove that something may have occurred a certain way.
Visually, an animation is more eye catching and realistic.
Simulations are improving in their presentation, but are still lacking realism.
On the other hand, an animation may be based on an eye witness testimony, calculations of the accident reconstructionist or from data output by a simulation package. All the events of an animation in a typical 3D visualization package are calculated and setup by the animator. Animations are almost always disclosed as demonstrative evidence and they do not try to "prove" anything. They are merely another form of expressing the opinion of the expert witness and are always presented as demonstrative evidence.
Misconception #4 - "We need it yesterday".
There have been many advances in the technology that forensic animators use which has improved the speed and efficiency of their work. Computer processing speeds have grown exponentially and the advances in software have allowed animators to do things which were simply not possible several years ago. There are even tools provided to animators which allow them to write custom scripts for repetitive tasks and specialized functions.
These advances in speed and ability would make one think that the time to complete an animation should also have been greatly reduced; however, this is not the case.
Part of this reason is simply the nature of the animation process. Much work needs to go into the understanding of the case, reading reports, taking measurements and verifying accuracy. This part alone can take a large part of the man-hours to create the animation.
Also, creating the 3D models ("scene assets") necessary to populate the animation is still a time consuming process. There are some advantages when a "library" of standard models is used (i.e. stop signs, light poles, traffic signs), however since each case is different and the specific details need to be reflected in the animation (such as the scene topography or specific damage to the vehicle), time must be spent to customize or create models from scratch.
Technology has effectively brought many more options to the realm of visualization which means that more work is being done in a similar amount of time. If one were to compare the time to produce an animation which was done 15 years ago to the same animation done today, there would be a noticeable decrease in the time to complete. However, the overall quality of presentation would certainly not be as appealing to the eye.
Due to media such as television and film and video games, people have become accustomed to a higher level of realism. The same animation which was used 15 years ago in a court of law, may not be as appealing or credible to an audience today.
It is important to leave as much time as possible to get a high quality animation and to allow time for the opponents to cross examine the animation. On average, a typical animation from a reputable forensic animator requires anywhere from a few weeks to months to complete depending on the availability of information, number of scenarios/views requested, level of realism and complexity of the animation. Unfortunately, there are still no "magic buttons" to do the manual work of a forensic animator.
Misconception #5 - "It's much too expensive"
Perhaps the most important piece of advice is to use a reputable and experienced forensic animator. There are some animation houses which specialize in advertizing or graphics which like to take on forensic work, but without a qualified and experienced forensic animator, there is a higher risk that the entire animation may be inadmissible.
A qualified forensic animator will bring to light all the options available, provide sound advice and set clear objectives up front. Setting clear objectives is possibly one of the most overlooked points. Without knowing the expectations, the goals of the animation are often missed or not well communicated resulting in last minute changes and edits which further increase the cost.
It is important the lawyers and accident reconstructionists understand the animation process and where the amount of man-hours are typically invested. Most forensic animators estimate or charge based on an hourly rate; however there are some which still prefer to quote by the case/project.
The general rule of thumb is that as the level of realism, complexity, number of scenarios and camera views increases, then so does the cost. This is why it is important to understand what is being requested of an animator. For example, changing a camera view slightly has a smaller impact on cost than does adding different animation scenarios with objects in different locations.
By taking a second look at forensic animations and their misconceptions, it is clear that there needs to be some understanding of the animating process by the client. Having an up front and open discussion about the objectives of the animation are imperative to having a positive impact on the case.
Selasa, 24 Oktober 2017
Options for Online Performing Arts Career Preparation
The popular industry of acting, dance, and music is filled with individuals with raw talent. May of these individuals pursued a formal education to learn a comprehensive understanding of their chosen field. Students can receive training and learn about options for online performing arts career preparation by contacting various schools and colleges.
Online education simply serves as a starter education. Students are not able to complete education fully online. Education will explore the performing arts in theory-based courses. Students are able to pursue education in the performing arts in programs that concentrate on acting, dance, and music. Each area will have students learning the same basic foundational areas. Once a foundation is laid students pursue their specific area of interest. Some colleges offer students programs specifically in guitar and music. Students should research their options and choose a program that best fits their desired educational and career goals.
Students that begin education online often transition into a bachelor's degree program because most careers require this level of education. Training in online performing arts degree programs can consist of theatre history, dramatic literature, music theory, music literature, and dance appreciation. These courses give students skills that are needed to be successful inside further training. Online education is a great way for students to complete basic performing arts courses as well as general education courses such as English and math. A bachelor's degree program in performing arts gives students the discipline needed to enter the field confident. For example, students that are focusing on acting will study audition techniques, performance types, and stage movement styles. Students exploring dance will study dance techniques, styles, and professional opportunities.
A bachelor's degree program qualifies students to enter careers that include:
Talent Manager
Dancer
Actor
A music degree program is highly focused and has students stepping directly into courses involving theory and performance. Students that complete foundational courses online can step into a traditional colleges program and begin honing their music abilities. Subjects such as performance, voice diction, and music literature can also be seen inside an acting concentration. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of performance and musician fundamentals. For example, students that are completing a music program for an instrument can expect to student study instrumental ensemble, music production, and performance.
Education in music allows students to become:
Band Directors
Musicians
Music Therapists
Advanced concepts in each of these areas can be learned at the master's degree level. Much like undergraduate training students can complete some courses online but the majority will have to be taken onsite at a traditional college. Masters degree programs are career intensive meaning that students explore performance, costume design, voice performance, and partake in workshops.
Once advanced training is gained students can enter careers that include:
Choreographers
Stage Managers
Script Writers
Students that are unable to enter a traditional college but are ready to begin their education can start learning about performing arts online.
Online education simply serves as a starter education. Students are not able to complete education fully online. Education will explore the performing arts in theory-based courses. Students are able to pursue education in the performing arts in programs that concentrate on acting, dance, and music. Each area will have students learning the same basic foundational areas. Once a foundation is laid students pursue their specific area of interest. Some colleges offer students programs specifically in guitar and music. Students should research their options and choose a program that best fits their desired educational and career goals.
Students that begin education online often transition into a bachelor's degree program because most careers require this level of education. Training in online performing arts degree programs can consist of theatre history, dramatic literature, music theory, music literature, and dance appreciation. These courses give students skills that are needed to be successful inside further training. Online education is a great way for students to complete basic performing arts courses as well as general education courses such as English and math. A bachelor's degree program in performing arts gives students the discipline needed to enter the field confident. For example, students that are focusing on acting will study audition techniques, performance types, and stage movement styles. Students exploring dance will study dance techniques, styles, and professional opportunities.
A bachelor's degree program qualifies students to enter careers that include:
Talent Manager
Dancer
Actor
A music degree program is highly focused and has students stepping directly into courses involving theory and performance. Students that complete foundational courses online can step into a traditional colleges program and begin honing their music abilities. Subjects such as performance, voice diction, and music literature can also be seen inside an acting concentration. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of performance and musician fundamentals. For example, students that are completing a music program for an instrument can expect to student study instrumental ensemble, music production, and performance.
Education in music allows students to become:
Band Directors
Musicians
Music Therapists
Advanced concepts in each of these areas can be learned at the master's degree level. Much like undergraduate training students can complete some courses online but the majority will have to be taken onsite at a traditional college. Masters degree programs are career intensive meaning that students explore performance, costume design, voice performance, and partake in workshops.
Once advanced training is gained students can enter careers that include:
Choreographers
Stage Managers
Script Writers
Students that are unable to enter a traditional college but are ready to begin their education can start learning about performing arts online.
Rabu, 11 Oktober 2017
Online Performing Arts Career Preparation Options
When looking to obtain an accredited education in performing arts students have the option of looking into online career training. Not all required courses can be completed through online schools and colleges but students can learn the basics. Online performing arts career preparation options allow students to prepare for the career they wish to enter by providing various levels of education in a number of specialized areas. Accredited training is available through certificate and degree programs ranging from an associate to a doctoral degree level.
*Education
When looking to pursue a career in performing arts students can choose from a number of paths. Finding the program that best fits the individual student's needs and goals can be done by researching available programs. Accredited career studies can be completed in areas such as:
Music
Broadcasting
Public Speaking
Dance
Theater
Arts Administration
Stage Management
...and much more depending on their desired career. Preparation will require students to study various subjects in order to obtain the skills and knowledge they need for a successful career.
*Careers
There are numerous career options for students who wish to enter into the performing arts field. When looking to enter into a career in performing arts, students have a variety of options to choose from for their desired profession. Possible career paths can include working as:
Magicians
Actors/Actresses
Pianists
Public Speakers
Songwriters
Stage Managers
...and much more. With the options of gaining an accredited career in this exciting field, students can prepare to enter into the workforce. By enrolling in an accredited online career training program for performing arts, students will need to complete coursework based on their desired career.
*Studies
The level of education and specialized area of study will help decide on the coursework that must be completed in order to enter the workforce. Studies will vary but may consist of subjects such as production training, guitar scales, recording, songwriting, and story telling. Students will study sound technology, comedy, management, administration, and many other courses related to this field. Students who choose to complete online career training will gain the knowledge and skills they need to seek employment and pursue the career they long for.
When students look to obtain the education they need to pursue the career they desire they will find numerous options available to them. Accredited online performing arts schools and colleges can give students the chance to receive the career training they need. Full accreditation is provided to learning program that allow students to obtain the best quality education available.
*Education
When looking to pursue a career in performing arts students can choose from a number of paths. Finding the program that best fits the individual student's needs and goals can be done by researching available programs. Accredited career studies can be completed in areas such as:
Music
Broadcasting
Public Speaking
Dance
Theater
Arts Administration
Stage Management
...and much more depending on their desired career. Preparation will require students to study various subjects in order to obtain the skills and knowledge they need for a successful career.
*Careers
There are numerous career options for students who wish to enter into the performing arts field. When looking to enter into a career in performing arts, students have a variety of options to choose from for their desired profession. Possible career paths can include working as:
Magicians
Actors/Actresses
Pianists
Public Speakers
Songwriters
Stage Managers
...and much more. With the options of gaining an accredited career in this exciting field, students can prepare to enter into the workforce. By enrolling in an accredited online career training program for performing arts, students will need to complete coursework based on their desired career.
*Studies
The level of education and specialized area of study will help decide on the coursework that must be completed in order to enter the workforce. Studies will vary but may consist of subjects such as production training, guitar scales, recording, songwriting, and story telling. Students will study sound technology, comedy, management, administration, and many other courses related to this field. Students who choose to complete online career training will gain the knowledge and skills they need to seek employment and pursue the career they long for.
When students look to obtain the education they need to pursue the career they desire they will find numerous options available to them. Accredited online performing arts schools and colleges can give students the chance to receive the career training they need. Full accreditation is provided to learning program that allow students to obtain the best quality education available.
Senin, 25 September 2017
Visual Graphic Arts - Cloud Sculpting with Lasers - The Future is Here
Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, indeed, we have taken this common phrase and used it in our daily lives, as we talk with friends and family. The visual arts a much like this. What do I mean by visual arts? Well, things like architecture, photography, paintings, and cloud sculpting with lasers. What? Come again, what the heck is cloud sculpting with lasers you ask? Assuming you know what clouds are and lasers are it is self-explanatory right? Sure it is, but it's nothing you have ever seen so now I have indeed, piqued your curiosity.
Yes, that was the point of course, so you are intrigued by this concept are you? Well, I know I was when I first learned of it. It seems some University Students playing around with lasers under a research grant from the military were testing these low powered lasers and noticed that they could drill holes in the clouds and cause them to swirl, yep, you guessed it, just like a kid playing with finger paints, probably one of the first visual arts you learned, they wrote their names in the clouds.
And folks that is how laser cloud art came to be. After some practice they could draw on the clouds slightly and someone figured out that if they set up a computer to a mechanism they could use a graphic arts program and a CADCAM to design something and have the laser, well, do its thing on the cloud and draw a picture. So, this is how cloud laser art was able to prove its usefulness. The ultimate self expression of the visual arts, drawing on the clouds!
Yes, that was the point of course, so you are intrigued by this concept are you? Well, I know I was when I first learned of it. It seems some University Students playing around with lasers under a research grant from the military were testing these low powered lasers and noticed that they could drill holes in the clouds and cause them to swirl, yep, you guessed it, just like a kid playing with finger paints, probably one of the first visual arts you learned, they wrote their names in the clouds.
And folks that is how laser cloud art came to be. After some practice they could draw on the clouds slightly and someone figured out that if they set up a computer to a mechanism they could use a graphic arts program and a CADCAM to design something and have the laser, well, do its thing on the cloud and draw a picture. So, this is how cloud laser art was able to prove its usefulness. The ultimate self expression of the visual arts, drawing on the clouds!
Selasa, 05 September 2017
What is 3D Animation? How is it Different From 2D Animation?
In this article I will explain in simple terms, what goes behind the 3D animation that you watch in movies and what makes it different from conventional two dimensional animation.
What is that extra 3rd dimension? Take a piece of paper and sketch a simple figure on it (a cat, a dog or anything that comes to your head). Lets say it is a cat and it is facing you from that sheet of paper. So you have the front view of the cat in front of you. Suppose if you feel that you want to see the cat from a side, will it help if you rotate the paper or flip it? No. Why? It is simply because the sketch you have drawn has the 3rd dimension missing.
Every real world object that you see around has a 3rd dimension and that is the reason why you can take it and rotate it to watch it from different angles. The sketch you have drawn had a length and a width, since the paper you used to draw also had a length and a width. But it lacks a thickness (3rd dimension) and hence your sketch also didnt have that extra dimension.
Suppose instead of sketching your imagination down on the piece of paper, you decided to sculpt it on a handful of clay. Since the medium you used (clay) had volume, you had to define the cats shape from all angles during the sculpting. Hence you unknowingly added that 3rd dimension to it and that is the reason you have the freedom to rotate it any way you want.
How conventional 2D animation works:
Before computers started playing their indispensable roles in the animation industry, everything was done manually by animators, who were essentially artists. They would create a series of slides having images on it, where each slides image is the continuation of the previous one in the sequence. For example if an animator wanted to simulate a ball falling down, they would create a sequence of slides where first slide would portray the ball at the top. The next slide will show the ball, may be 1 cm lower than that in the first slide. In the next one, again lower and so on, till the last slide shows the ball hitting the ground. When the whole sequence of slides are shown in front of the viewer in a fast rate, it creates the feeling of the ball falling down.
The whole process was tedious and time consuming. When computers came into play, the frame redrawing works had been minimised since, copying and pasting duplicate elements between successive frames was very easy with the computers aid. The artist has to make only the necessary changes that should exist between successive frames. As technology advanced, softwares evolved that again minimised the work of a 2d animator, in such a way that several things started getting automated. Using motion tweening and other techniques, an animator can set the initial position or shape of an object and then its final position and shape and the computer would generate the intermediate frames automatically. The artist even has the freedom to make corrections to that.
What was missing in 2D animation?
The 2D animation always lacked the essence, since all the real-world sceneries and objects are 3D and when they gets transformed to 2D, they lose their reality. Later stage cartoons started to simulate the 3D effect by using gradients, and varying highlights, but it required huge extra effort from the part of the artist.
How 3D Graphics works:
The stages in 3D animation are more in number compared to the 2D animation. The first part of 3D animation starts with character sketching and 3D modeling. In the next stage the characters are rigged for animation. In the next stage they are animated. This is in fact a too compact form of what happens in the background. Lets see each of them in a little detail.
· Character sketching: This is the stage where an artist sketches how the character should look from various angles. Usually the sketch will be done on paper or canvas. As many variations in poses are created so that it would help the 3D Modeler to sculpt a 3D Model out of it.
· Character Modeling: A 3D artist, who is expertised in a 3D modeling and animating tool, will examine the sketches and starts sculpting the figure using his imagination and skill. I used the word sculpting because the process is much similar to the real sculpting we do with raw materials like clay. The software tool that the artist uses provides various approaches to perform the modeling. Usually organic modeling techniques like Polygonal Modeling (a polygon is subdivided to get the desired shape), NURBS modeling (curves are arranged to create a surface flowing through them), Subdivisional Modeling (A hybrid blend between polygonal modeling and NURBS modeling) are used. In these modeling techniques, the 3D modeling artist will sculpt out the characters shape in 3D using a set of tools provided by the 3D modeling software, by following any of the above mentioned approaches.
The 3D Model obtained finally will be in an editable form and the model will be dependent on the approach used. For example a NURBS technique will yield a 3D Model in the NURBS representation (curves and surfaces). Once the modeling is complete, the artist converts it into the basic polygonal mesh (vertices alone). The polygonal mesh is nothing but a huge number of polygons that are arranged so as it forms the whole character. This conversion to polygonal mesh offers many advantages like faster rendering speed, and multi-software compatibility.
· Scene building: In addition to the characters the animation will have an environment and related objects. The 3D modeling software provides methods to simulate the environment, model the world , sun etc. For example in the 3d modeling and animation software called Maya, the artist have a huge library of Paint effects that contains Trees, leaves etc from which he can drag and drop into a scene and customize it in accordance to needs.
· Texturing: During this stage, all the objects in the scene are given suitable textures using the 3D animation tools specific facilities. Some tools provide only facilities for mapping an image texture on to the 3d model, whereas advanced tools even let you paint on the 3d meshs texture surface.
· Lighting and Camera setup:
This process is much like that in a real world movie making. The 3D animation software provides different types of lights which you can place in the scene in any direction you want. You can adjust the intensity, cone angle or even the shadow cast by the individual lights. Camera also is the replica of the real camera we use for shooting. We can place multiple cameras in a scene; adjust its focal length, aperture size and almost every parameter that you can find in a real camera.
· Animation: Once the static elements have been set, the 3D artist applies motion to them. This process, called animation is performed by setting keyframes. In order to animate a ball falling, the animator would set the first key frame at say 0th second with the balls position at the initial top position. He would set the next key at say 5th second with the balls position touching the ground. The 3D animation software interpolates the balls falling action between the 0th and 5th seconds. The animator can customize the interpolation behavior using graphs or by setting intermediate keys.
In Character animation, similar principles are applied. The skeleton will be animated by the animator and the 3d mesh skinned to the skeleton gets animated automatically. Character animation is often aided by plug-in tools (e.g.: biped) that has been created specifically for creating character animation sequences like walking or running cycles. The various scene elements, cameras and lights are animated using basic key-frame animation, based on the story board requirements.
· Rendering:
Once the scenes are animated, it will undergo a process called rendering, in which the 3d representation is converted to a video format, which can be read and edited using professional video editing software.
· Editing and mixing:
The rendered scenes are imported into video editing software and edited. In the case of movies where the human characters need to interact with an animated character, proper mixing is done at this stage, though the 3D scene creation would have been done with that aim in mind, using techniques like motion tracking.
The advantages of 3D animation:
You might have wondered why we should go after the 3D animation, when the whole process itself takes a number of stages and appears to be very complex. Apart from the complexities involved, it does offer a lot of advantages. Once the modeling process is completed, the 3D software allows very flexible control over the scene and animation. You can rotate the model in any angle you want (unlike 2D). 3D animation software also gives a rich collection of tools that aid the process of modeling and animation. You can choose from a wide variety of modeling techniques based on your requirement. Lighting and camera setup is the exact replica of a real world movie shooting environment. Apart from all these, the ultra realism offered by the 3D rendered scenes makes 3D graphics the best solution for the emerging animation industry.
What is that extra 3rd dimension? Take a piece of paper and sketch a simple figure on it (a cat, a dog or anything that comes to your head). Lets say it is a cat and it is facing you from that sheet of paper. So you have the front view of the cat in front of you. Suppose if you feel that you want to see the cat from a side, will it help if you rotate the paper or flip it? No. Why? It is simply because the sketch you have drawn has the 3rd dimension missing.
Every real world object that you see around has a 3rd dimension and that is the reason why you can take it and rotate it to watch it from different angles. The sketch you have drawn had a length and a width, since the paper you used to draw also had a length and a width. But it lacks a thickness (3rd dimension) and hence your sketch also didnt have that extra dimension.
Suppose instead of sketching your imagination down on the piece of paper, you decided to sculpt it on a handful of clay. Since the medium you used (clay) had volume, you had to define the cats shape from all angles during the sculpting. Hence you unknowingly added that 3rd dimension to it and that is the reason you have the freedom to rotate it any way you want.
How conventional 2D animation works:
Before computers started playing their indispensable roles in the animation industry, everything was done manually by animators, who were essentially artists. They would create a series of slides having images on it, where each slides image is the continuation of the previous one in the sequence. For example if an animator wanted to simulate a ball falling down, they would create a sequence of slides where first slide would portray the ball at the top. The next slide will show the ball, may be 1 cm lower than that in the first slide. In the next one, again lower and so on, till the last slide shows the ball hitting the ground. When the whole sequence of slides are shown in front of the viewer in a fast rate, it creates the feeling of the ball falling down.
The whole process was tedious and time consuming. When computers came into play, the frame redrawing works had been minimised since, copying and pasting duplicate elements between successive frames was very easy with the computers aid. The artist has to make only the necessary changes that should exist between successive frames. As technology advanced, softwares evolved that again minimised the work of a 2d animator, in such a way that several things started getting automated. Using motion tweening and other techniques, an animator can set the initial position or shape of an object and then its final position and shape and the computer would generate the intermediate frames automatically. The artist even has the freedom to make corrections to that.
What was missing in 2D animation?
The 2D animation always lacked the essence, since all the real-world sceneries and objects are 3D and when they gets transformed to 2D, they lose their reality. Later stage cartoons started to simulate the 3D effect by using gradients, and varying highlights, but it required huge extra effort from the part of the artist.
How 3D Graphics works:
The stages in 3D animation are more in number compared to the 2D animation. The first part of 3D animation starts with character sketching and 3D modeling. In the next stage the characters are rigged for animation. In the next stage they are animated. This is in fact a too compact form of what happens in the background. Lets see each of them in a little detail.
· Character sketching: This is the stage where an artist sketches how the character should look from various angles. Usually the sketch will be done on paper or canvas. As many variations in poses are created so that it would help the 3D Modeler to sculpt a 3D Model out of it.
· Character Modeling: A 3D artist, who is expertised in a 3D modeling and animating tool, will examine the sketches and starts sculpting the figure using his imagination and skill. I used the word sculpting because the process is much similar to the real sculpting we do with raw materials like clay. The software tool that the artist uses provides various approaches to perform the modeling. Usually organic modeling techniques like Polygonal Modeling (a polygon is subdivided to get the desired shape), NURBS modeling (curves are arranged to create a surface flowing through them), Subdivisional Modeling (A hybrid blend between polygonal modeling and NURBS modeling) are used. In these modeling techniques, the 3D modeling artist will sculpt out the characters shape in 3D using a set of tools provided by the 3D modeling software, by following any of the above mentioned approaches.
The 3D Model obtained finally will be in an editable form and the model will be dependent on the approach used. For example a NURBS technique will yield a 3D Model in the NURBS representation (curves and surfaces). Once the modeling is complete, the artist converts it into the basic polygonal mesh (vertices alone). The polygonal mesh is nothing but a huge number of polygons that are arranged so as it forms the whole character. This conversion to polygonal mesh offers many advantages like faster rendering speed, and multi-software compatibility.
· Scene building: In addition to the characters the animation will have an environment and related objects. The 3D modeling software provides methods to simulate the environment, model the world , sun etc. For example in the 3d modeling and animation software called Maya, the artist have a huge library of Paint effects that contains Trees, leaves etc from which he can drag and drop into a scene and customize it in accordance to needs.
· Texturing: During this stage, all the objects in the scene are given suitable textures using the 3D animation tools specific facilities. Some tools provide only facilities for mapping an image texture on to the 3d model, whereas advanced tools even let you paint on the 3d meshs texture surface.
· Lighting and Camera setup:
This process is much like that in a real world movie making. The 3D animation software provides different types of lights which you can place in the scene in any direction you want. You can adjust the intensity, cone angle or even the shadow cast by the individual lights. Camera also is the replica of the real camera we use for shooting. We can place multiple cameras in a scene; adjust its focal length, aperture size and almost every parameter that you can find in a real camera.
· Animation: Once the static elements have been set, the 3D artist applies motion to them. This process, called animation is performed by setting keyframes. In order to animate a ball falling, the animator would set the first key frame at say 0th second with the balls position at the initial top position. He would set the next key at say 5th second with the balls position touching the ground. The 3D animation software interpolates the balls falling action between the 0th and 5th seconds. The animator can customize the interpolation behavior using graphs or by setting intermediate keys.
In Character animation, similar principles are applied. The skeleton will be animated by the animator and the 3d mesh skinned to the skeleton gets animated automatically. Character animation is often aided by plug-in tools (e.g.: biped) that has been created specifically for creating character animation sequences like walking or running cycles. The various scene elements, cameras and lights are animated using basic key-frame animation, based on the story board requirements.
· Rendering:
Once the scenes are animated, it will undergo a process called rendering, in which the 3d representation is converted to a video format, which can be read and edited using professional video editing software.
· Editing and mixing:
The rendered scenes are imported into video editing software and edited. In the case of movies where the human characters need to interact with an animated character, proper mixing is done at this stage, though the 3D scene creation would have been done with that aim in mind, using techniques like motion tracking.
The advantages of 3D animation:
You might have wondered why we should go after the 3D animation, when the whole process itself takes a number of stages and appears to be very complex. Apart from the complexities involved, it does offer a lot of advantages. Once the modeling process is completed, the 3D software allows very flexible control over the scene and animation. You can rotate the model in any angle you want (unlike 2D). 3D animation software also gives a rich collection of tools that aid the process of modeling and animation. You can choose from a wide variety of modeling techniques based on your requirement. Lighting and camera setup is the exact replica of a real world movie shooting environment. Apart from all these, the ultra realism offered by the 3D rendered scenes makes 3D graphics the best solution for the emerging animation industry.
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