Understanding the difference between animation and multimedia

Before trying to join a good multimedia institute in Delhi to learn this trade, one has to first understand what actually the difference between animation and multimedia is.

About multimedia

Multimedia as it is name is considered to be explanatory in itself. It tends to refer to making use of multiple media forms that might or might not include animation, within a given project or product. The multimedia products often would combine still images, text, film, video, sound and animation, all within a single package.

The multimedia products are generally interactive in nature. It is through a computing device that it can be created and accessed. It encompasses huge range of services, projects and products. The familiar instances are CBTs (computer based training) programs used in education; instructional CD ROMS favored by learner driver. The artists’ CV for instance comprising of a biography, headshot and work portfolio that is burned into and delivered on the CD ROM, is likely to be considered as multimedia in nature. It is also used in corporate setting as presentations. MMORPGs have become popular with gamers.

However, the usage of the word Multimedia is said to have changed with time and only during the late 90’s that the present meaning was acquired. Multimedia may be pre-recorded or live and with advent of smartphones, computer tablets, advanced gaming platforms, etc., multimedia is actually a pervasive force.

About animation

Animation can be regarded to be a particular cinematic medium that utilizes often hundreds and thousands of ‘still images’. Such images when combined in sequences over particular time period which is generally of 24 / 25 / 30 frames/second. The images all are said to slightly vary from one another get recorded then replayed with rapid succession, thereby creating an illusion movement.

Animations could be 3D or 2D. It can also be computer generated or hand drawn and involve puppets, clay models, cut outs and shadows. Some animation type might involve all the elements and even more. Excellent cinematic examples related to 3D animations are Shrek, Toy Story, The Croods, The Incredibles, etc.

3D animation has been stated to be a complex area having a terminology that is quite unique of its own. 3D animation essential is said to start with modeling or creation of 3D mesh of character or objects that are to be created. Then the mesh could be refined by modeler before getting programmed and rigged for movement. Moreover, it requires basic drawing skills, which is technical, while relying heavily upon usage of 3D lighting and textures.

The traditional 2D animation is known to involve processing of individual images in thousands copied from the original paper drawings to transparent acetates called Cels. Every Cel is then colored carefully and then set against painted background, before it is photographed in a single basis by using rostrum camera. This particular film making method has brought up classics like 101 Dalmatians, Lady & the Tramp, Snow White & the 7 Dwarfs and much more.

With the animation and multimedia industry growing, the need for qualified, experienced and knowledge experts are also on the rise.

Author’s Bio: The author is employed with https://www.tgcindia.com/. He writes variety of articles on education to provide the reader with useful information on the same.