3D Production Techniques for Animation
Overview
This unit will introduce students to fundamental production techniques, tools and workflows used for 3D computer and stop-motion animation. Learning activities will provide students with a practical grounding in a variety of 3D production techniques and software. This knowledge can then be leveraged during the planning and production of 3D animation projects.
Requisites
Admission into:
BA-ANI Bachelor of Animation or its related double degrees
OR
BA-FTVANI Bachelor of Film and Television (Animation)
Equivalent
DAN10008 - Animation Technologies 2 V1 (Discontinued) and HDANM113 - Animation Technologies 2 (Discontinued)
02-November-2025
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Identify 3D production techniques, tools and workflows that can be used to craft sequences of 3D computer animation and stop-motion animation
- Apply principles of animation using 3D computer animation tools and production techniques within an animated sequence
- Apply principles of animation using stop-motion animation tools and production techniques within an animated sequence
- Integrate personal style and aesthetic approaches into the production of an animated sequence
- Plan, organise and produce a sequence of animation using foundational workflows and approaches, specific to 3D computer animation and stop-motion animation
- Use filmic language and 3D animation terminology to explain the organisation, development and production of an animated motion picture
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-campus Class | 3.00 | 6 weeks | 18 |
| On-campus Studio | 3.00 | 6 weeks | 18 |
| Specified Activities Various | 2.00 | 12 weeks | 24 |
| Unspecified Activities Various | 7.50 | 12 weeks | 90 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animation Portfolio | Individual | 50% | 1,2,4,5,6 |
| Animation Portfolio | Individual | 50% | 1,3,4,5,6 |
Content
- Planning and management strategies for 3D animation
- Introduction to 3D computer animation and software (Maya)
- Introduction to Stop-motion animation software, studio equipment and OH&S
- 3D asset construction, basic armature design and rigging techniques
- The principles of animation, character mechanics, locomotion and volume
- Cinematic staging and practical lighting techniques
- Graduate Attribute – Communication Skills: Communicating using different media
- Graduate Attribute – Digital Literacies: Technical literacy
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.