Animation : 2D versus 3D and their combined effect

This thesis studies the differences in the perception of space and character movement between 2D and 3D animation. 2D animation is defined by elements constructed in a 2D environment while 3D animation by elements constructed in a 3D environment. Modern day animated films have been seen to mix the two forms for the sake of artistic effect, expedited production, and general convenience. Though some modern animations combine the two in the explorative quest to discover new animation forms, few films directly compare the forms to visualize the differences in their perceived qualities. Noticeably, the two animation methods differ in level of detail, dimension, realism, and artistic expression. In terms of lighting, the science of illumination dictates the 3D environment whereas in the 2D environment, lighting is an illusion created by coloring conventions. This study looks specifically at lighting as the controlling factor delineating the two forms. Two short mixed media films were created. One film had a 3D base while the other a 2D base. A varied set of subjects were shown one of the two short films produced and asked to complete a survey. The survey measured the subject's understanding of space and character movement as seen the film. Results show that in 3D there is an enhanced understanding of spatial perception while in 2D there is a lower sensitivity to character movement.

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Architecture.

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2014

Author dc:creator

• Au, Kristin C

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Takehiko Nagakura.

• Architecture.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/92640

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/92640