Action Lines
Action Lines are special drawing techniques used in animation storyboards to show movement and energy in still images. They're like motion trails or streaks that help viewers understand how something is moving in a scene. Think of them as the visual streaks you might see behind a racing car in a cartoon. Artists use these lines to make their storyboards more dynamic and to clearly communicate to other team members how characters or objects should move in the final animation. You might also hear these called "motion lines," "speed lines," or "whoosh lines" in job descriptions.
Examples in Resumes
Created dynamic fight sequences using Action Lines and Motion Lines in storyboards for animated series
Enhanced character movement through strategic placement of Action Lines in key action scenes
Developed storyboard templates incorporating Action Lines to streamline animation workflow
Typical job title: "Storyboard Artists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Storyboard Artists
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Events & Conferences
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you decide when and where to use action lines in a storyboard sequence?
Expected Answer: A senior artist should explain how they analyze the scene's energy, identify key moments of movement, and strategically place action lines to guide the viewer's eye and communicate motion effectively to the animation team.
Q: How do you train junior artists in the proper use of action lines?
Expected Answer: Should discuss mentoring techniques, common mistakes to watch for, and how to help artists understand the relationship between action lines and final animation timing.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you adjust action lines for different types of movement?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how different line styles and patterns are used for various types of movement - like quick vs. slow, straight vs. curved, or powerful vs. gentle actions.
Q: How do you incorporate action lines in digital storyboarding software?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of digital tools and techniques for creating effective action lines, including using layers and different brush styles.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic principles of using action lines in storyboarding?
Expected Answer: Should explain the fundamental purpose of action lines, basic drawing techniques, and how they help communicate movement in static images.
Q: Can you describe different types of action lines and their uses?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify basic types of action lines (speed lines, impact lines, etc.) and explain when each type is most appropriate to use.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of motion and movement in drawing
- Simple action line techniques
- Digital drawing tool basics
- Understanding of basic animation principles
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced action line techniques
- Efficient digital workflow
- Character movement expertise
- Scene composition skills
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex action sequence planning
- Team leadership and review skills
- Advanced movement storytelling
- Style development and innovation
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to show examples of action line usage in portfolio
- Lack of understanding of basic movement principles
- No knowledge of industry-standard storyboarding software
- Poor grasp of timing and movement in animation
Related Terms
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