# 10 || The 12 principles of animation

The 12 Principles of Animation are essential guidelines for professional animators, originally developed by Disney animators in the 1930s. They were formally outlined by Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas in their 1981 book, „The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation“. These principles continue to be widely taught and applied in animation, despite advancements in technology and industry changes. They remain relevant in modern films, web design, and animation studios worldwide.[1]

The 12 principles are:

  1. Squash and stretch

This principle gives a sense of weight and flexibility to objects. For example, a bouncing ball will squash upon impact and stretch when ascending, keeping its volume throughout, just like a normal ball would.

  1. Anticipation

Anticipation prepares the audience for an action, making movements more realistic. For example, a character bending their knees before jumping, signals that the action is about to happen.

  1. Staging

Staging directs the audience’s attention to the most important elements in a scene, making sure that its clear what is shown. This can be achieved through composition, lighting, and camera angles.

  1. Straight-ahead action and pose-to-pose

These are two approaches to creating movement. Straight ahead action involves drawing each frame in sequence, leading to fluid, dynamic motion. Pose to pose starts with key frames and fills in the intervals, allowing for more control over timing and positioning.

  1. Follow through and overlapping action

This principle ensures that different parts of a character or object continue moving after the main action has stopped, reflecting the laws of physics. For example, a character’s hair or clothing will continue to move and weave, after they have stopped walking.

  1. Slow in and slow out

Movements in the real world typically start slowly, accelerate, and then decelerate. Animating more frames at the beginning and end of an action, with fewer in the middle, gets this effect.

  1. Arc

Natural actions tend to follow arched trajectories. Incorporating arcs into animation makes movements appear more fluid and realistic.

  1. Secondary action

Adding secondary actions, like a character’s facial expression or a subtle gesture, supports the main action and adds depth to the scene.

  1. Timing

The number of frames dedicated to an action determines its speed and conveys aspects of the character’s mood and personality. The correct timing ensures that movements feel natural.

  1. Exaggeration

Exaggeration enhances actions to make them more dynamic and engaging. While realism is important, amplifying certain elements can add appeal.

  1. Solid drawing

This principle emphasizes understanding three-dimensional forms, anatomy, and weight. Even in two-dimensional animation, characters should appear to have volume and balance.

  1. Appeal

Characters should be visually engaging and relatable. This doesn’t mean they must be conventionally attractive; even villains can have appeal through distinctive designs and personalities.[2]

Bibliography

Lesley University. “The 12 Principles of Animation.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://lesley.edu/article/the-12-principles-of-animation.

Šarec, Eva. “12 Principov animacije.” Hashtag, September 20, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://hashtag.si/12-principov-animacije/.


[1] Lesley University. “The 12 Principles of Animation.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://lesley.edu/article/the-12-principles-of-animation.

[2] Šarec, Eva. “12 Principov animacije.” Hashtag, September 20, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://hashtag.si/12-principov-animacije/.

This blog content was translated by artificial intelligence.

# 09 || Storyboard & Animatic

Storyboards and animatics play a key role in animation by helping plan out the story before full production begins. A storyboard is like a visual script, showing how scenes will look and how characters will move. Animatics take it further by adding timing, simple movement, and sound, giving a rough preview of the final animation. These steps make it easier to spot issues early, saving time and effort while ensuring the final product flows smoothly and looks great.

Storyboard

 A storyboard is a series of drawings that visually represent the story of a script or screenplay. Its main purpose is to give the production team a clear idea of how the story should be executed. Storyboards can range from detailed illustrations to simple stick figures, as long as they effectively convey information and emotion. [1]

“It is similar to a trial-run for your finished film, video, or commercial, laid out in a comic book-like form.” [2]

Walt Disney popularized the modern storyboarding process in the 1930s, though early forms of it were used by filmmakers like George Méliès, who used storyboards to visualize his planned effects. Disney animator Webb Smith introduced the idea of drawing scenes on separate sheets and pinning them to a board to visualize sequences, first used in the 1933 short Three Little Pigs. Disney’s approach to storyboarding was influenced by graphic novels and was crucial in enhancing storytelling. Today, storyboarding remains a standard practice in animation and filmmaking. [3]

Storyboards play an important role in filmmaking, from animated movies to action films. They help directors explain their vision to the entire production team, ensuring everyone is on the same page. However, storyboarding is not just about executing instructions—it requires storytelling skills. A storyboard artist must creatively break down scenes shot by shot to create an engaging film while considering practical limitations. The process also helps identify and eliminate overly complex or expensive shots before production begins. [4] [5]

Storyboard artists use different camera angles and compositions to establish the tone and mood of a scene. Storyboarding is not only about storytelling but also about determining how each shot shapes the film’s emotion and atmosphere. These choices guide directors in structuring their shot lists and filming strategies, making storyboards an essential tool in visual storytelling. [6]

The two basic versions of storyboard formats are traditional and thumbnail. The difference in those two is in how much detail is added. The traditional storyboard format consists of sketches with a lot of detail, which gives more information. These can be camera movements, characters, props, room details, and so on. Thumbnail storyboards are simplified versions of traditional storyboards, consisting of small, rough sketches without written notes. They focus on capturing the sequence of shots quickly and are useful for individual creators or small teams who don’t require detailed annotations. [7]

Animatic

Animatic is an animated storyboard. It is a series of storyboard images arranged in sequence and combined with sound and image movement to demonstrate how a scene would look like. It also demonstrated the approximate length of the animation or film. They help visualize timing, pacing, and overall flow. It serves as an advanced step after storyboarding, offering a clearer preview of the final project. [8]

Animatics are especially crucial for animation, where there is little flexibility compared to live-action filmmaking. Since animation requires extensive time and resources, with even a single second taking hours to render, every shot must be carefully planned and refined early on. [9]

Animatics offer several key benefits in animation and filmmaking. They are quick to produce, especially if a storyboard is already created, and serve as a reference for frame timing. They allow for easy adjustments, as rough sketches make it simpler to cut scenes without regret. Animatics also help build consensus among the creative team by providing an early visual representation of the film. Most importantly, they save time and money by identifying issues before committing to full production, making the process more efficient. [10] [11]

Bibliography

Chambers, James. “What is an Animatic?” Boords, April 4, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://boords.com/animatic/what-is-the-definition-of-an-animatic-storyboard.

Dunham, Brent. “What Is an Animatic — How to Bring Your Storyboard to Life.” StudioBinder, May 21, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-an-animatic-definition/.

Maio, Alyssa. “What Is a Storyboard? The Fundamentals to Get You Started.” StudioBinder, June 1, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-a-storyboard/.

Maitrai, Satyam. “The History of Storyboarding.” MakeStoryboard Blog (blog), April 7, 2022. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://makestoryboard.com/blog/the-history-of-storyboarding.

Mellon, Kevin, and Neal Holman. “Ein Guide zum Thema Storyboards.” Adobe. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.adobe.com/at/creativecloud/video/discover/storyboarding.html.

Naghdi, Arash, and Payam Adib. “Animatic in a nutshell; the storyboard made animated.” Dream Farm Studios (blog). Accessed February 7, 2025. https://dreamfarmstudios.com/blog/animatic-in-a-nutshell-the-storyboard-made-animated.

Vyond Team. “What Is a Storyboard and How Do You Create One?” Vyond, January 11, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.vyond.com/blog/what-is-a-storyboard-and-why-do-you-need-one/.


[1] Vyond Team. “What Is a Storyboard and How Do You Create One?” Vyond, January 11, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.vyond.com/blog/what-is-a-storyboard-and-why-do-you-need-one/.

[2] Maio, Alyssa. “What Is a Storyboard? The Fundamentals to Get You Started.” StudioBinder, June 1, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-a-storyboard/.

[3] Maitrai, Satyam. “The History of Storyboarding.” MakeStoryboard Blog (blog), April 7, 2022. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://makestoryboard.com/blog/the-history-of-storyboarding.

[4] Mellon, Kevin, and Neal Holman. “Ein Guide zum Thema Storyboards.” Adobe. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.adobe.com/at/creativecloud/video/discover/storyboarding.html.

[5] Vyond Team, “What Is a Storyboard and How Do You Create One?”

[6] Mellon and Holman, “Ein Guide zum Thema Storyboards.”

[7] Maio, “What Is a Storyboard? The Fundamentals to Get You Started,” June 1, 2024.

[8] Dunham, Brent. “What Is an Animatic — How to Bring Your Storyboard to Life.” StudioBinder, May 21, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-an-animatic-definition/.

[9] Dunham, “What Is an Animatic — How to Bring Your Storyboard to Life,” May 21, 2023.

[10] Chambers, James. “What is an Animatic?” Boords, April 4, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://boords.com/animatic/what-is-the-definition-of-an-animatic-storyboard.

[11] Naghdi, Arash, and Payam Adib. “Animatic in a nutshell; the storyboard made animated.” Dream Farm Studios (blog). Accessed February 7, 2025. https://dreamfarmstudios.com/blog/animatic-in-a-nutshell-the-storyboard-made-animated.

This blog content was translated by artificial intelligence.

# 08 || Animation

Animation is a form of storytelling. It is a technique that creates the illusion of movement by displaying a sequence of images in rapid succession. Each image is slightly different from the last. Traditional animation involved drawing or painting on transparent celluloid sheets, while modern animation primarily uses computer-generated imagery (CGI). The smoothness of motion depends on the frame rate, with 12 frames per second appearing somewhat choppy and 24 frames per second commonly used in films for fluid motion. Typically, moving characters are animated “on twos,” meaning each image is displayed for two frames to balance efficiency and movement realism. [1] [2]

Traditional Animation

There are different types of animations. Animation started with the traditional animation, also called cel animation and slowly transformed into newer types, with the help of technology.

As already mentioned, traditional animation is the oldest type. The objects are drawn on celluloid transparent paper, that’s why it is also called cel animation. Each frame has to be drawn on a new piece of paper. Background, characters and other elements are separated, and have their own layers. Animators have to create first the line art and later add color. Background artists create the background scenes. Once all the frames are finished, they are photographed using special animated cameras. The final film is then sent for development and processing. [3] [4][5]

2D Vector Animations

Traditional animations are also 2D animations, but they were at first hand drawn and later drawn with the help of digital tools. These images are pixel images, for example JPG, PNG, GIF. The vector animation process is based on vector images, which means the images always stay sharp. This was not the case with pixel images, where the images couldn’t be enlarged without using the image quality. As vector-based animations use mathematical values, the graphics can be changed, instead of redrawing each element over and over again, making the process faster and easier. Since vector graphics are resolution-independent, they maintain high quality at any size, making them ideal for mobile apps, interactive media, and online content. They are very popular for explainer animations, web animations, advertisements, and motion graphics. [6]

3D Animations

3D animation is the process of creating three-dimensional images in a digital context. These visuals are made by using 3D software, which allows animators to create objects, sets, and characters in 3D space. These make the image appear 3D in a 2D space. Unlike traditional 2D animation, where movement is created by drawing frame by frame, 3D animation relies on digital models that can be rigged with skeletons and manipulated to move fluidly. This process involves several stages, including modelling, texturing, rigging, animating, lighting, and rendering. Animators use keyframes and motion capture techniques to bring characters to life with realistic movements and expressions.

Beyond entertainment, 3D animation is widely used in gaming, virtual reality, architecture, medicine, and education. It enhances visual storytelling, making complex ideas more engaging and accessible. Advancements in technology, such as real-time rendering and artificial intelligence, continue to push the limits of what is possible, making 3D animation an essential tool in digital media. [7] [8]

Motion Graphics

Motion graphics refers to animated graphic design. A motion graphics artist uses text, images, and animation to convey information in a visually engaging way that complements the video’s style. The key element is „motion“ — if it doesn’t move, it’s not motion graphics. Unlike traditional animation, which focuses on character-driven storytelling, motion graphics primarily emphasize dynamic visuals and typography to enhance communication.

Motion graphics are widely used in advertising, explainer videos, social media content, and broadcast design. They help simplify complex ideas through visually appealing animations, making information more digestible and engaging. With advancements in software like Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D, motion graphics continue to evolve, blending seamlessly with 3D elements, visual effects, and interactive media to create compelling digital experiences. [9] [10] [11] [12]

Stop Motion

Stop motion encompasses various techniques, including claymation, pixelation, and object-motion. This type of animation is not done with drawing or using digital modelling tools, it is typically made with physical objects, which are being rearranged or remodelled for every frame. While the styles may differ, the fundamental mechanics are similar to traditional animation, like a flipbook. Each frame is being photographed to create the illusion of movement.[13]

Bibliography

Adobe. “Motion graphics explained: definition, history and examples.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.adobe.com/uk/creativecloud/animation/discover/motion-graphics.html.

Bianat. “Traditional Animation.” Baianat. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.baianat.com/books/animation-revolution/traditional-animation.

Ellis, Matt. “Motion graphics vs. animation: what’s the difference?” 99designs (blog), 2019. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://99designs.com/blog/video-animation/motion-graphics-vs-animation/.

Into Film. “Animation: Hand Drawn.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.intofilm.org/films/filmlist/91.

Katatikarn, Jasmine. “What Is 3D Animation? The Complete Guide (2024).” Academy of Animated Art, January 11, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://academyofanimatedart.com/what-is-3d-animation/.

Maio, Alyssa. “What Is Animation — Definition, History and Types of Animation.” StudioBinder, January 28, 2025. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-animation-definition/.

Museum of Science Boston. “Animation.” The Science Behind Pixar. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://sciencebehindpixar.org/pipeline/animation.

Provost, Rex. “What Is Motion Graphics — Definition, Examples & Types.” StudioBinder, September 3, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-motion-graphics-definition/.

Silveira, Felippe. “What Is Motion Graphics?” Mowe, August 3, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://mowe.studio/what-is-motion-graphics/.

Toonboom. “Traditional Animation.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://learn.toonboom.com/modules/animation-techniques/topic/traditional-animation.

Unity. “What is 3D animation?” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://unity.com/topics/what-3d-animation.

This blog content was translated by artificial intelligence.


[1] Maio, Alyssa. “What Is Animation — Definition, History and Types of Animation.” StudioBinder, January 28, 2025. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-animation-definition/.

[2] Museum of Science Boston. “Animation.” The Science Behind Pixar. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://sciencebehindpixar.org/pipeline/animation.

[3] Maio, “What Is Animation — Definition, History and Types of Animation.”

[4] Toonboom. “Traditional Animation.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://learn.toonboom.com/modules/animation-techniques/topic/traditional-animation.

[5] Into Film. “Animation: Hand Drawn.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.intofilm.org/films/filmlist/91.

[6] Maio, “What Is Animation — Definition, History and Types of Animation.”

[7] Unity. “What is 3D animation?” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://unity.com/topics/what-3d-animation.

[8] Katatikarn, Jasmine. “What Is 3D Animation? The Complete Guide (2024).” Academy of Animated Art, January 11, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://academyofanimatedart.com/what-is-3d-animation/.

[9] Provost, Rex. “What Is Motion Graphics — Definition, Examples & Types.” StudioBinder, September 3, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-motion-graphics-definition/.

[10] Ellis, Matt. “Motion graphics vs. animation: what’s the difference?” 99designs (blog), 2019. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://99designs.com/blog/video-animation/motion-graphics-vs-animation/.

[11] Silveira, Felippe. “What Is Motion Graphics?” Mowe, August 3, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://mowe.studio/what-is-motion-graphics/.

[12] Adobe. “Motion graphics explained: definition, history and examples.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.adobe.com/uk/creativecloud/animation/discover/motion-graphics.html.

[13] Maio, “What Is Animation — Definition, History and Types of Animation.”

# 07 || History of Animation

Animation has evolved from simple drawings to cutting-edge digital creations. The modern history of animation began in the 19th century with the invention of devices like the zoetrope and phenakistoscope, which created the illusion of movement by displaying a series of images in rapid succession. [1]

The early 20th century marked the birth of traditional animation. In 1908, French artist Émile Cohl created Fantasmagoria, considered the first fully animated film using hand-drawn images. It was made from 700 drawings, 2 minutes long, and with that the beginning of the traditional animation. In 1914 Winsor McCay developed Gertie the Dinosaur (1914), one of the first animated characters with personality and emotion. It was the first animation to use key framing, inbetweening, registration marks and animation loops. [2] [3]

One of the biggest breakthroughs came with Walt Disney, who revolutionized animation with synchronized sound in Steamboat Willie (1928), introducing the world to Mickey Mouse. Disney also pioneered full-length animated films, starting with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), proving that animation could be more than just short cartoons. [4]

The Golden Age of Animation (1940s – 1960s)

This period witnessed the emergence of major animation studios such as Disney, Warner Bros., and MGM and those introduced still well-known, iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, Tom & Jerry and Donald Duck. Disney continued to create groundbreaking animated films, including Cinderella (1950) and Sleeping Beauty (1959). At the same time, Warner Bros. Created their own renowned Looney Tunes series, featuring legendary animators like Chuck Jones and Tex Avery.[5]

The Rise of Computer Animation (1970s – 1990s)

In the 1970s, technology began to play a bigger role in animation. Traditional hand-drawn techniques were still prevalent, but computer-generated imagery (CGI) were also gradually emerging. A notable breakthrough in CGI animation happened with Tron (1982), which utilized mostly computer effects. The biggest shift happened in 1995 when Pixar Studios released Toy Story, the first fully computer-animated film. This milestone paved the way for future successes like Shrek (2001), Finding Nemo (2003) and Frozen (2010). [6]

Modern Animation and the Digital Era (2000s – Present)

Today, animation has reached unparalleled heights with the evolution in CGI, motion capture and AI-driven techniques. Studios like Pixar, DreamWorks and Illumination are dominating the industry, by producing high-quality animated films and shows. The uprising of streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ has also further expanded the accessibility of animation worldwide. Additionally, Japanese anime has gathered vast global popularity, with popular titles like Spirited Away (2001) and Your Name (2016). These animated movies show the artistic depth, which happens beyond Hollywood. [7]

From very early flipbooks and hand-drawn frames all the way to CGI and AI-powered animation, the animation industry has undergone an immense evolution. Animation continues to push creative and technological boundaries, while also shaping storytelling and entertainment for future generations. As technology continues to advance, the future of animation holds limitles potential and possibilities.

Bibliography

Kehr, Dave. “Animation.” Encyclopedia Britannica, January 14, 2025. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.britannica.com/art/animation.

History of Animation. “The History of Animation.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://history-of-animation.webflow.io.

Fudge. “A Timeline: The Evolution of Animation.” Fudge Animations. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.fudgeanimation.com/journal/the-evolution-of-animation-a-timeline.

NYFA. “The History of Animation: Celebrating Disney’S 100 Years of Stories,” October 17, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/quick-history-animation.

Barnhart, Ben. “The History of Computer Animation.” Linearity, February 18, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.linearity.io/blog/computer-animation.

InFocus Film School. “The History of 3D Animation: A Deep Dive,” November 25, 2022. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://infocusfilmschool.com/history-of-3d-animation.

This blog content was translated by artificial intelligence.


[1] Kehr, Dave. “Animation.” Encyclopedia Britannica, January 14, 2025. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.britannica.com/art/animation.

[2] History of Animation. “The History of Animation.” Accessed February 7, 2025. https://history-of-animation.webflow.io.

[3] Fudge. “A Timeline: The Evolution of Animation.” Fudge Animations. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.fudgeanimation.com/journal/the-evolution-of-animation-a-timeline.

[4] Kehr, “Animation.”

[5] NYFA. “The History of Animation: Celebrating Disney’S 100 Years of Stories,” October 17, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/quick-history-animation.

[6] Barnhart, Ben. “The History of Computer Animation.” Linearity, February 18, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.linearity.io/blog/computer-animation.

[7] InFocus Film School. “The History of 3D Animation: A Deep Dive,” November 25, 2022. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://infocusfilmschool.com/history-of-3d-animation.

# 06 || About folklore and its importance

Traditions, customs and stories, which were passed down through generations are all part of folklore, which serves as an important part of any cultures identity.  It reflects the values, beliefs and experiences of communities and in doing that, offers insights into their way of life. By studying these folklore tales, we are able to gain a deeper understanding of societies, cultures and even individuals. [1]

One of the main functions of folklore is to protect and maintain the gathered wisdom of a society or community. Through these tales, poems, proverbs and songs, folklore passes on knowledge, moral lessons and universal truths, which are used to guide people through life’s challenges. It also showcases that all of our problems and successes happen in many different cultures throughout many different periods of time in history. [2]

Folktales especially are a significant aspect of folklore, which have been enchanting people for centuries.  They were very important as a source of entertainment for peasants and kings alike in the middle ages and still serve the same purpose today. But these folktales also serve another purpose, which is, to tell us about the way life was for the common man. History books are filled with names, dates and events which have shaped our world, but it is folklore, which remembers the hopes, fears, dreams and details of everyday lives. [3]

In schools and any other educational setting, folklore can play a significant role. Folktales can be used to help children develop reading skills, while also studying other cultures and discovering a love for stories and literature. They can also provide a way for children to understand the material and the social environment. Every story has a moral to teach people, the most common one being goodwill defeating evil. [4]

Additionally, folklore can foster a sense of belonging and unity among individuals. By maintaining and protecting their folklore, communities can keep a strong connection to their culture and their history, making sure their traditions and values continue through future generations. This then serves as a source of pride and a sense of belonging in a community. [5]

Mythological stories are stories about gods and the origins of how things came to be and these stories, just like folklore are also passed down through generations and can also be used to define a culture. One of the most well-known stories in mythology is how Odin lost his eye, trading in a well for cosmic knowledge and perception. This story belongs to nordic mythology. On the other hand, one of the most well-known stories in folklore, specifically slavic folklore is the story of Baba Yaga, who lives in the woods in a wooden house perched atop enormous chicken legs and surrounded by a fence made of skulls. While Odin, the All-Father is a figure of knowledge and the ultimate God in the nordic religion, Baba Yaga represents a helpful grandmotherly figure, who is also a cannibalistic witch. [6]

To conclude, folklore is not just a collection of old stories, it is a living and dynamic part of human culture. It preserves the whole wisdom of communities, while educating the young and giving them a sense of identity, pride and unity. In out fast changing world, the importance of folklore remains undiminished. It serves as a bridge between our past and the present, while guiding us towards understanding our cultures and even our future.

Bibliography

August House Piblishers. “Why Are Folktales Important?” August House. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.augusthouse.com/why-are-folktales-important.

Fleury, Larry. “The Importance of Folklore in the Modern World.” Farmers’ Almanac, May 6, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.farmersalmanac.com/importance-folklore-modern-world.

Harvard Library. “Research in Folklore Studies.” Research Guides, January 31, 2025. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://guides.library.harvard.edu/folk_and_myth.

House, Christine Y. “Cultural Understanding Through Folklore.” Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://teachersinstitute.yale.edu/curriculum/units/1993/2/93.02.05.x.html.

HowStuffWorks. “The Fascinating World of Folklore: Exploring Cultural Traditions.” HowStuffWorks, July 22, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://people.howstuffworks.com/what-is-folklore.htm.

Manabat, April. “Mythology and Folklore.” Nazarbayev University, December 6, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://nu.kz.libguides.com/mythologyandfolklore.

This blog content was translated by artificial intelligence.


[1] Harvard Library. “Research in Folklore Studies.” Research Guides, January 31, 2025. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://guides.library.harvard.edu/folk_and_myth.

[2] Fleury, Larry. “The Importance of Folklore in the Modern World.” Farmers’ Almanac, May 6, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.farmersalmanac.com/importance-folklore-modern-world.

[3] House, Christine Y. “Cultural Understanding Through Folklore.” Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://teachersinstitute.yale.edu/curriculum/units/1993/2/93.02.05.x.html.

[4] August House Piblishers. “Why Are Folktales Important?” August House. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.augusthouse.com/why-are-folktales-important.

[5] HowStuffWorks. “The Fascinating World of Folklore: Exploring Cultural Traditions.” HowStuffWorks, July 22, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://people.howstuffworks.com/what-is-folklore.htm.

[6] Manabat, April. “Mythology and Folklore.” Nazarbayev University, December 6, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://nu.kz.libguides.com/mythologyandfolklore.

# 05 || Explainer videos

In the current state of our world, people’s attention span are shrinking more from one day to another. In a world like that, explainer videos are a saving grace and a powerful tool for communication and gathering information. These videos are short and engaging, designed to simply explain any complex topic, such that they are understood by a broad audience. Explainer videos rely on storytelling, visuals and voiceovers to relay messages in an informative yet entertaining way. There have been studies, showing that these videos are very effective in engaging viewers, because they combine visual and auditory elements, which improves comprehension of any subject. [1]

There are different types of explainer videos, animation being one of the most common. Animated explainer videos use various techniques, such as motion graphics, 2D vector animation and even 3D elements to bring ideas to life. By using animation, you are allowing increased creativity, flexibility and the ability to illustrate very abstract and complex ideas in a simple way. On the other hand, live-action explainer videos have real people acting, using props and locations to create a more personal connection with the viewers. Some brands and companies combine both of these types, trying to strike a balance between the two. [2]

One of the main reasons that explainer videos are so effective, is the ability to break down any given topic or difficult concept. By not overwhelming the viewers with huge amount of information, text or infographics, these videos use engaging and simple animations with voiceover narration to simplify the message. With the visual storytelling, the viewers‘ comprehension is enhanced, which leads to information being more structured and easier to remember. [3]

In schools, explainer videos are being widely used to make learning more interactive. Different subjects like medicine, physics, engineering and IT very often rely on abstract concepts, which can be extremely difficult and challenging for students to grasp. These explainer videos can bring these subjects to life, by demonstrating the process in a visually engaging manner. Especially whiteboard animations have become a very popular method for breaking down different ideas in an easy-to-follow way.

While very useful in education, these explainer videos are also widely used and play a crucial role in marketing. Businesses use these to introduce an array of products, explain their services and build brand awareness. Because these videos are so short and engaging, they work well on social media, landing pages and even in email campaigns. Studies have shown that consumers are more likely to purchase a product, after watching a well crafted explainer video, because it explains and helps clarify on exactly what the product is and its value and function in a matter of seconds. [4]

To conclude, explainer videos are highly effective way to communicate different ideas or topics, whether it is used for education or marketing. Their ability to simplify difficult topics, while engaging audiences and enhancing retention makes them a vital tool in today’s digital world. Whether it is through animation or through live-action, these videos have the power to make information more accessible, enjoyable and memorable, proving that sometimes, a short video can say more than a thousand words.

Bibliography

Connolly, Michelle. “Educational Explainer Videos: Learning via Visual Content.” Educational Voice, November 27, 2024. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://educationalvoice.co.uk/educational-explainer-videos/.

Dowdall, Eoin. “Explainer Videos: What Are They and Why Are They Great? Kartoffel Films.” Kartoffel Films, May 10, 2021. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://kartoffelfilms.com/blog/explainer-videos-what-are-they-and-why-are-they/.

Kumar, Anil. “Why Are Educational Explainer Videos Important?” Mypromovideos, June 4, 2024. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://mypromovideos.com/blog/educational-explainer-videos/.

Schorn, Anna. “Online Explainer Videos: Features, Benefits, and Effects.” Frontiers in Communication 7 (November 23, 2022). https://doi.org/10.3389/fcomm.2022.1034199.

This blog content was translated by artificial intelligence.


[1] Schorn, Anna. “Online Explainer Videos: Features, Benefits, and Effects.” Frontiers in Communication 7 (November 23, 2022). https://doi.org/10.3389/fcomm.2022.1034199.

[2] Dowdall, Eoin. “Explainer Videos: What Are They and Why Are They Great? Kartoffel Films.” Kartoffel Films, May 10, 2021. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://kartoffelfilms.com/blog/explainer-videos-what-are-they-and-why-are-they/.

[3] Connolly, Michelle. “Educational Explainer Videos: Learning via Visual Content.” Educational Voice, November 27, 2024. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://educationalvoice.co.uk/educational-explainer-videos/.

[4] Kumar, Anil. “Why Are Educational Explainer Videos Important?” Mypromovideos, June 4, 2024. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://mypromovideos.com/blog/educational-explainer-videos/.

# 04 || Elements of Storytelling

Storytelling is one of the oldest and most fundamental form of communication and cultural connection, which transcends cultures and even generations. At its core, good storytelling consists of several key elements, which work in harmony to drag in audiences and readers to convey interesting and meaningful stories. The most important and common ones are setting, characters, plot, conflict, theme, point of view and style.

Setting

The setting is used to establish the time and place of where the story is happening, providing the backdrop with which the characters interact, and different events occur. A well established setting can immerse the audience completely, making the world feel more believable. Whether it is the bustling streets of a modern city or a fantastical world, the setting shapes the story’s atmosphere and influences the characters actions. The best known example of this being J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings”, which is a richly detailed story, set in the epic realm of Middle-Earth. [1]

Characters

Characters are the heart of any story. They drive the plot through their actions, desires and growth. These characters can be protagonists, antagonists or supporting figures, each one of them contributing to the story’s progression. Characters, that are well developed can possess distinct personalities, motivations and arcs, which resonate with the audience. A good example is Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”, where the character of Atticus Finch is the embodiment of integrity and justice, which leaves a lasting impact on readers. [2]

Plot

The plot is a sequence of events, which happen in a story and compose a narrative. This narrative is structured with a beginning, middle and end. It contains the actions, reactions and turning points of characters, guiding the story and leading it forward. A well structured and compelling plot maintains tension and intrigue. The most common structure of a story includes exposition, rising action, climax, falling action and resolution. Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” is a very good example of a story, which draws in readers through its many dramatic twists and turns. [3]

Conflict

Conflicts can introduce challenges or obstacles to the characters, which they must navigate. These conflicts create tension and drive the story forward. They can happen internally within a character or externally between characters or different forces. These conflicts are very important for any characters development and plot progression, because it compels the characters to make choices and change. [4]

Theme

The theme of a story summarizes the underlying message or central idea of a story. It offers insights into the human experience. Themes most often explore concepts such as love, power, betrayal or redemption. They provide depth to any story. [5]

Point of view

The point of view determines the perspective from which the story is told. This perspective influences how information is presented and how readers connect with the characters. The point of view can be first-person, which offers an intimate view into a character’s thoughts; third-person limited, which focuses on one character’s experiences; or third-person omniscient, which provides a god-like overview of all characters and events happening in the story. [6]

Style

The style encompasses the author’s unique voice. This includes their choice of language, structure of sentences and literary devices. These choices shape the stories tone and evoke specific emotions or atmospheres. [7]

These are just some of the many elements of storytelling, which can transform any simple tale into a compelling story, which resonates with audiences and readers, by understanding and applying just some of the components, that I described.

Bibliography

August House Publishers. “Why Are Folktales Important?” August House, 2023. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.augusthouse.com/8-common-elements-in-storytelling.

Humm, Philipp. “7 Elements of Great Storytelling.” Power of Storytelling, September 30, 2021. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://power-of-storytelling.com/storytelling-elements/.

Interaction Design Foundation. “Aristotle’s 7 Elements of Good Storytelling.” Accessed February 3, 2025. https://public-media.interaction-design.org/pdf/Aristotles-7-Elements-of-Good-Storytelling.pdf.

Leighfield, Luke. “The 5 Key Story Elements.” Boords, March 28, 2024. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://boords.com/storytelling/the-5-key-story-elements.

National Geographic Society. “Elements of Storytelling: An overview of basic storytelling elements for photography, film and writing.” National Geographic, January 31, 2025. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/elements-storytelling/.

Youell, Joy. “Essential Elements of Storytelling.” Hire a Writer, April 8, 2023. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.hireawriter.us/storytelling/essential-elements-of-storytelling.

This blog content was translated by artificial intelligence.


[1] National Geographic Society. “Elements of Storytelling: An overview of basic storytelling elements for photography, film and writing.” National Geographic, January 31, 2025. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/elements-storytelling/.

[2] Leighfield, Luke. “The 5 Key Story Elements.” Boords, March 28, 2024. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://boords.com/storytelling/the-5-key-story-elements.

[3] Leighfield, “The 5 Key Story Elements.”

[4] Youell, Joy. “Essential Elements of Storytelling.” Hire a Writer, April 8, 2023. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.hireawriter.us/storytelling/essential-elements-of-storytelling.

[5] August House Publishers. “Why Are Folktales Important?” August House, 2023. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.augusthouse.com/8-common-elements-in-storytelling.

[6] Humm, Philipp. “7 Elements of Great Storytelling.” Power of Storytelling, September 30, 2021. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://power-of-storytelling.com/storytelling-elements/.

[7] Interaction Design Foundation. “Aristotle’s 7 Elements of Good Storytelling.” Accessed February 3, 2025. https://public-media.interaction-design.org/pdf/Aristotles-7-Elements-of-Good-Storytelling.pdf.

# 03 || History of storytelling

“Stories are the building blocks of the human experience. From „once upon a time,“ to „the end,“ humans make sense of the world through stories.”[1]

Everything you can think about is made up of stories, even texts and emails. Storytelling can be found in all different forms scattered around in human societies, from myths and legends to religion. It is one of the oldest and most important art forms known to humankind. Storytelling has evolved from visual (cave drawings), to oral, from written to digital.[2]

About storytelling through time

The visual storytelling is over 36.000 years old, and the oral storytelling over 50.000 years old. The oldest form of visual storytelling are the cave paintings found in the Chauvet caves in southern France, depicting the everyday and reflecting on events. Another common form of drawing was the use of hieroglyphs in ancient Egypt. With drawing pictographic characters as symbols and sounds it was also a form of writing and is recognised as one of the world’s oldest writing systems. The visual storytelling kept evolving over the years and became an important form of preserving history and legends. Historical examples of visual storytelling have been found in Egyptian pyramids, on ancient Greek vases and frescoes, Chinese tapestries, statues, canvases, and through the evolution of technology also through photographs and video.[3] [4]

Oral storytelling is one of the oldest forms of storytelling, dating back to the origins of speech, estimated between 50,000 to 2 million years ago. Songs, chants and epic poetry were used to tell stories, and were handed down from generation to generation. These stories were eventually written and published. Oral storytelling remains a popular and essential part of human connection.[5] [6]

Key storytelling techniques include pacing, pauses, comedy, and drama, which have propelled storytelling from intimate fireside gatherings to grand theatrical productions like Greek tragedies. The Greeks introduced structured storytelling elements such as the protagonist, antagonist, and chorus, influencing modern theatre, including the Broadway industry.[7]

Today, oral storytelling remains widely practiced, with modern platforms like podcasts, YouTube, and everyday conversations keeping it alive. Political figures also utilize storytelling to engage and persuade audiences, making it a fundamental skill in contemporary society.[8]

Compared to visual and oral storytelling, written storytelling is very young dating back around 9000 years. The earliest examples of human writing come from the Sumerians and Egyptians with their hieroglyphics. Drawings slowly evolved into writing. Writing changed the course of storytelling. It gave the humans the possibility to be immortalized, as well as preserving the true story. Through oral storytelling a lot of stories were altered and can’t be taken as facts. Written storytelling has placed importance on the wealthy and essentially gave added power to education.[9]

The youngest form of storytelling is digital storytelling. Digital storytelling is photography, moving images, sound, or the combination of different elements and also adding still images and text. Photography has the ability to communicate stories through emotions, mood, narrative, ideas and messages. They evoke emotions and empathy. So do sound and video. A few examples of modern storytellers are writers, musicians, journalists, filmmakers, performers, and educators.[10]

Gilgamesh

The oldest story that has been deciphered from the ancient times was Gilgamesh. The story is about an ancient Mesopotamian king who lived around 2700 BC. This story has a structure, where the beginning has an action-packed adventure, and is followed by a character’s development over the course of his quest and finally ending in a climax where he is finally able to complete the adventure. Here can the hero’s journey already be found.[11]

Bibliography

Cosby, Annie. “Once Upon a Time: A Brief History of Storytelling,” Freewrite, March 19, 2024. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://getfreewrite.com/blogs/writing-success/stories-the-building-blocks-of-the-human-experience

EM, “The History and Future of Storytelling,” A Quintillion Words, December 15, 2021. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://aquintillionwords.com/2021/12/15/the-history-and-future-of-storytelling/.

Mendoza, Melissa. “The Evolution of Storytelling,” Reporter, May 1, 2015. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://reporter.rit.edu/tech/evolution-storytelling.

Parkes, Daniela. “A Brief History of Storytelling: How Long Has It Existed?,” Daniela Parkes, May 6, 2024. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://danielaparkes.com/blog/brief-history-of-storytelling/.

TrueEditors, “The Evolution of Storytelling,” True Editors, June 1, 2022. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://www.trueeditors.com/blog/the-evolution-of-storytelling/.

This blog content was translated by artificial intelligence.


[1] Cosby, Annie. “Once Upon a Time: A Brief History of Storytelling,” Freewrite, March 19, 2024. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://getfreewrite.com/blogs/writing-success/stories-the-building-blocks-of-the-human-experience

[2] Parkes, Daniela. “A Brief History of Storytelling: How Long Has It Existed?”, Daniela Parkes, May 6, 2024. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://danielaparkes.com/blog/brief-history-of-storytelling/.

[3] Parkes, “A Brief History of Storytelling: How Long Has It Existed?”

[4] Mendoza, Melissa. “The Evolution of Storytelling,” Reporter, May 1, 2015. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://reporter.rit.edu/tech/evolution-storytelling.

[5] Parkes, “A Brief History of Storytelling: How Long Has It Existed?”

[6] Mendoza, “The Evolution of Storytelling”

[7] Parkes, “A Brief History of Storytelling: How Long Has It Existed?”

[8] Parkes, “A Brief History of Storytelling: How Long Has It Existed?”

[9] Mendoza, “The Evolution of Storytelling”

[10] Cosby, Annie. “Once Upon a Time: A Brief History of Storytelling,” Freewrite, March 19, 2024. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://getfreewrite.com/blogs/writing-success/stories-the-building-blocks-of-the-human-experience

[11] EM, “The History and Future of Storytelling,” A Quintillion Words, December 15, 2021. Accessed January 30, 2025, https://aquintillionwords.com/2021/12/15/the-history-and-future-of-storytelling/.

|| Impuls 08 // Introduction to Storyboarding by Laura Ewing Ferrer

For my last impuls blog post I chose the Domestika course „Introduction to Storyboarding“ by Laura Ewing Ferrer. The course is an exploration of the art and technique behind creating effective storyboards. Through this course, Laura shares her expertise, breaking down the complexities of storyboarding into accessible and actionable lessons. Whether for animation, live-action films, or advertisements, storyboarding is an essential tool in visual storytelling, and this course emphasizes why.

Why do we need storyboarding?

One of the course’s key takeaways is the diverse applications of storyboarding. Laura emphasizes that storyboarders are essentially idea sellers, presenting a blueprint of a project before it’s even made. This „movie on paper“ allows directors and teams to visualize the composition, story and shot structure, saving significant time and money during production.

Here are some insights from the course:
  • Quick and Disposable: Storyboards are not meant to be final art pieces but working drafts that can be altered as needed. The focus is on clarity, composition, and narrative flow rather than polished illustrations.
  • Cost Efficiency: Animation projects often dedicate years to developing storyboards that align with narrative and technical requirements. This upfront investment prevents costly mistakes during production.
  • Adaptability: Directors use storyboards differently; some create rough sketches themselves, while others rely on storyboard artists to flesh out complex sequences. Advertising storyboards tend to be even simpler, emphasizing sound and key visuals over intricate detail.
Types of shot sizes and their purpose

In the course, Laura also explains different camera shot sizes and their narrative functions. Each type of shot serves a purpose in building the story:

  • Establishing Shots: Introduce the setting and give context to the audience.
  • Wide Shots: Showcase the character’s full body and their environment.
  • Medium Shots: Highlight expressions and body language, often used for dialogue.
  • Close-Ups: Focus on details or emotions, directing the audience’s attention.
  • Extreme Close-Ups: Reveal intensity or subtle details that enhance the scene’s mood.

Camera angles also play a crucial role. Low angles convey power and intimidation, while high angles create vulnerability. Dutch angles add unease, while dynamic movements like dolly shots or pans bring the audience closer to the action.

Framing and composition

Framing is essential in making each shot visually engaging. Laura introduces the rule of thirds, which divides the frame into nine equal parts to create balance and guide the viewer’s eye. Strategic placement of characters and elements within this grid can make scenes more compelling.

Another key concept is the „dirty shot,“ where a blurred object in the foreground adds depth and perspective. Laura also discusses crossing the 180-degree axis, explaining how maintaining spatial continuity keeps viewers oriented within the scene.

The author also explains different storyboarding and drawing techniques, as well es giving a basic drawing course. She also shows her process, from creating thumbnails to the final panels.

Why this course was interesting for me

What I found most fascinating about this course was how it normalized storyboarding. Before taking it, I thought storyboarding was purely about artistic skill, but Laura’s approach emphasized its practical and collaborative nature. I loved how she highlighted the adaptability of storyboarding for different mediums, from fluid, expressive animation storyboards to technical live-action guides.

Links

|| Impuls 07 // Heretic

The movie „Heretic“ is a masterful exploration of suspense, religion, and the human psyche. Directed by the filmmakers Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the film delves into themes of faith, fear, and cultural intersections, all while keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. From start to finish, „Heretic“ maintains a constant sense of tension, making it an unsettling cinematic experience for the audience.

What the movie is about

„Heretic“ follows the journey of two mormon missionaries navigating a series of mysterious and unsettling events tied to religious and supernatural elements. The story takes viewers through various cultural and spiritual landscapes, examining how different belief systems interpret faith, sin, and redemption.

The movie’s plot revolves around a mysterious figure, whose actions and presence unsettle everyone around him. Through this character, „Heretic“ raises questions about morality, divine intervention, and the boundaries of human understanding.

The atmosphere of constant suspense

One of the best aspects of „Heretic“ is its ability to maintain an almost palpable sense of suspense throughout the entire runtime. The film masterfully uses pacing, sound design, and visual cues to keep the audience on edge. Every scene is imbued with the feeling that something significant is about to happen, but the movie cleverly avoids predictability, keeping viewers guessing until the very end.

This sustained tension is achieved through slow reveals, ambiguous characters and minimalist score. Firstly, the information is unveiled gradually, forcing the audience to piece together the puzzle alongside the characters. Secondly, the antagonist is morally complex and enigmatic, adding to the sense of unease. And lastly, the hauntingly sparse musical score heightens the impact of silence, making even the quietest moments feel charged with significance. The ticking of the timer aditionally makes the scenes feel as if evil is approaching.

Exploration of different religions

Another standout element of „Heretic“ is its exploration of various religions and spiritual practices. The film doesn’t limit itself to one tradition but instead weaves together elements from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and indigenous beliefs. This approach creates a thought-provoking dialogue about the universality of faith and the ways in which different cultures approach the divine and question their belief (or disbelief).

Why this movie was interesting for me

„Heretic“ captivated me for two main reasons: its ability to sustain suspense and its exploration of religion. The constant feeling of unease throughout the movie was thrilling. I love how a film can manipulate atmosphere and pacing to create such an intense emotional experience. Every moment felt significant, and I found myself completely captivated, eagerly anticipating what would come next.

The movie’s treatment of different religions was another highlight. It didn’t shy away from exploring the complexities and contradictions within faith, and I appreciated how it portrayed each belief system with not only respect, but also giving a realistic view.

Links

  1. Heretic Trailer