Anticipation
Anticipation is a fundamental principle in animation that helps make movements look more natural and engaging. It's like the wind-up before throwing a ball - a small movement in the opposite direction before the main action. When you see this term on a resume, it means the artist knows how to make animations feel more lifelike and believable. They understand how to plan and draw the subtle movements that happen before major actions, which is crucial for quality animation work. This skill is essential whether the artist works in traditional hand-drawn animation, computer animation, or storyboarding.
Examples in Resumes
Applied Anticipation principles to create more dynamic character movements in animated sequences
Created storyboards emphasizing Anticipation to improve action scene clarity
Trained junior animators in proper use of Anticipation and other core animation principles
Typical job title: "Animators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Animators
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Events & Conferences
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you teach anticipation to junior animators?
Expected Answer: A senior animator should explain how they break down the concept into simple examples, demonstrate various types of anticipation, and show how it affects the overall quality of animation. They should mention real project examples and common mistakes to avoid.
Q: How do you balance anticipation timing in fast-paced action sequences?
Expected Answer: They should discuss how to adjust anticipation for different speeds of action, maintain clarity without slowing down the pace, and explain how anticipation can enhance rather than hinder quick movements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Give examples of how anticipation varies between different types of characters or objects.
Expected Answer: Should explain how anticipation changes based on character weight, size, and personality. For example, how a heavy character's anticipation might be slower and more pronounced than a light character's.
Q: How do you use anticipation in storyboarding?
Expected Answer: Should describe how they plan key poses to show preparation for actions, how they indicate movement direction, and how they ensure the story reads clearly through these preparatory poses.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is anticipation and why is it important in animation?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that anticipation is the preparation for an action, like a crouch before a jump, and why it helps make animation more believable and readable to viewers.
Q: Can you describe a simple example of anticipation in animation?
Expected Answer: Should provide a basic example like a character preparing to throw a ball, explaining the backward motion of the arm before throwing forward.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of anticipation principle
- Can apply anticipation to simple movements
- Understands timing basics
- Can create basic character animations
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced application of anticipation
- Can adapt anticipation for different character types
- Strong timing and spacing skills
- Ability to mentor juniors on basic principles
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert level anticipation implementation
- Can direct complex animation sequences
- Ability to train others in animation principles
- Deep understanding of movement and timing
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic animation principles
- No understanding of timing in animation
- Lack of demo reel or portfolio showing movement examples
- No knowledge of industry-standard animation software
