Exaggeration
Exaggeration is a fundamental animation technique where features or movements are purposely made bigger, smaller, faster, or slower than normal to create more engaging and expressive animations. In animation jobs, this skill helps make characters and their actions more appealing and memorable. Think of it like turning up the volume on reality - if a character is happy, their smile might be extra wide, or if they're running, their legs might stretch longer than normal. This technique is also known as "squash and stretch" or "amplification" in animation circles.
Examples in Resumes
Applied Exaggeration techniques to create more dynamic character movements in feature animation
Used Exaggeration and Amplification to enhance emotional impact in character expressions
Implemented Exaggeration principles to improve timing and impact in action sequences
Typical job title: "Character Animators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Character Animators
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you decide when to use exaggeration in an animation, and when to keep it more subtle?
Expected Answer: A senior animator should discuss balancing artistic vision with project needs, understanding the target audience, and how different styles of animation require different levels of exaggeration. They should mention experience leading teams and making style decisions.
Q: Can you describe a time when you had to guide junior animators in using exaggeration effectively?
Expected Answer: Look for examples of mentoring experience, ability to explain complex concepts simply, and understanding of how exaggeration fits into the broader animation pipeline and production goals.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you use exaggeration to enhance character personality?
Expected Answer: The animator should explain how they adjust movements and expressions to match character traits, giving specific examples of how exaggeration can make shy characters appear more timid or bold characters more confident.
Q: What's your process for planning exaggerated movements in an action sequence?
Expected Answer: They should describe their workflow for timing, reference gathering, and how they determine the right amount of exaggeration to make movements dynamic while staying believable.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is exaggeration in animation and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of how exaggeration makes animations more appealing and entertaining, with simple examples like bouncing balls or basic character expressions.
Q: Can you explain the difference between realistic and exaggerated movement?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe how exaggerated movements differ from real life and why these differences are important in animation, using simple examples.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of exaggeration principles
- Simple character animations
- Basic facial expressions
- Understanding timing and spacing
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex character movements
- Advanced emotional expressions
- Action sequence animation
- Style matching abilities
Senior (5+ years)
- Leading animation teams
- Setting animation style guides
- Complex performance animation
- Animation direction and review
Red Flags to Watch For
- No demo reel or portfolio showing range of animation skills
- Lack of understanding of basic animation principles
- No experience with industry-standard animation software
- Poor understanding of timing and movement in animation
Related Terms
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