Exaggeration

Term from Animation Storyboarding industry explained for recruiters

Exaggeration in animation storyboarding is a fundamental artistic technique where artists intentionally make movements, expressions, or actions bigger and more dramatic than real life. It helps make characters' emotions and actions clearer and more engaging for viewers. Think of it like turning up the volume on movements - when a character is happy, their smile might be extra wide, or when they're surprised, they might jump higher than humanly possible. This technique is essential in both traditional hand-drawn animation and modern computer animation, making stories more entertaining and emotionally impactful.

Examples in Resumes

Created dynamic action sequences using Exaggeration techniques in character movements

Applied Exaggeration principles to enhance emotional impact in facial expressions

Developed storyboards incorporating Exaggeration and Overexaggeration to amplify comedic timing

Typical job title: "Animation Storyboard Artists"

Also try searching for:

Storyboard Artist Character Animator Animation Artist Visual Development Artist Layout Artist Animation Designer

Where to Find Animation Storyboard Artists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you decide when exaggeration might be too much for a scene?

Expected Answer: A senior artist should discuss balancing dramatic impact with story needs, considering the target audience, and maintaining consistency with the project's style guide. They should mention examples of adapting exaggeration levels for different types of productions.

Q: How do you guide junior artists in applying exaggeration effectively?

Expected Answer: Should explain their mentoring approach, including demonstrating techniques, reviewing work, and helping others understand when and how much exaggeration serves the story best. Should mention specific examples of helping others grow.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain how you use exaggeration differently for comedy versus dramatic scenes?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe specific techniques for different emotional tones, explaining how they adjust exaggeration levels to match the scene's mood and purpose.

Q: How do you maintain character consistency while using exaggeration?

Expected Answer: Should discuss keeping character personality and design rules in mind while applying exaggeration, and how they ensure the character remains recognizable despite extreme poses.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is exaggeration in animation and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic concepts of making actions and expressions bigger than life to enhance visual impact and emotional connection with viewers.

Q: Can you describe a scene where you would use exaggeration?

Expected Answer: Should provide simple examples like a character reacting to surprise or showing extreme happiness, demonstrating basic understanding of when exaggeration enhances storytelling.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of exaggeration principles
  • Simple character expressions and poses
  • Following style guides
  • Basic emotional storytelling

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced character acting through exaggeration
  • Complex emotional sequences
  • Style consistency across scenes
  • Effective use of timing with exaggeration

Senior (5+ years)

  • Leading visual style development
  • Mentoring others in animation principles
  • Complex character performance
  • Production pipeline management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain basic principles of exaggeration
  • Portfolio shows stiff or lifeless character poses
  • No understanding of emotional storytelling
  • Can't adapt exaggeration levels to different styles