Squash and Stretch
Squash and Stretch is one of the most fundamental principles in animation that helps create lifelike and engaging movement. It's a technique where objects or characters are made to appear flexible, giving them a sense of weight and life. Think of how a bouncing ball flattens (squashes) when it hits the ground and elongates (stretches) as it bounces up. This principle is used in all forms of animation, from hand-drawn to computer-generated (CGI). When you see this term on a resume, it indicates that the candidate understands how to create natural-looking movement in animation.
Examples in Resumes
Applied Squash and Stretch principles to create dynamic character animations
Utilized Squash and Stretch techniques in Maya for realistic movement effects
Created engaging character animations implementing Squash and Stretch for mobile game characters
Typical job title: "Animators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Animators
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you teach junior animators about squash and stretch?
Expected Answer: A senior animator should explain their mentoring approach, using simple examples like bouncing balls, and how they help juniors progress to more complex character animations while maintaining proper weight and physics.
Q: How do you balance realistic physics with artistic exaggeration in squash and stretch?
Expected Answer: They should discuss how they make creative decisions about when to follow real-world physics versus when to exaggerate for entertainment value, using examples from their experience.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Can you explain how you would apply squash and stretch to a character running?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe how the body compresses and extends during different phases of running, and how this principle makes the animation more dynamic and believable.
Q: How do you maintain volume while using squash and stretch?
Expected Answer: Should explain that when an object stretches in one direction, it should become thinner in other directions to maintain consistent volume, using simple examples.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is squash and stretch, and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept using simple examples like a bouncing ball, and explain how it adds life and personality to animations.
Q: Can you describe a simple exercise to practice squash and stretch?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic exercises like animating a bouncing ball or simple character jump, showing understanding of the fundamental principle.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of animation principles
- Simple character and object animations
- Basic bouncing ball animations
- Understanding of animation timing
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex character animations
- Advanced weight and physics implementation
- Varied animation styles
- Technical understanding of animation software
Senior (5+ years)
- Master-level character animation
- Animation direction and review
- Team leadership and mentoring
- Complex animation problem-solving
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic physics in animation
- Unable to demonstrate simple squash and stretch examples
- No knowledge of maintaining volume in animations
- Lack of animation portfolio showing this principle
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