Stop animation, the art of creating videos from the small movements of still objects, has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. While many might consider the advancements in digital animation technology to turn this old-school technique obsolete, it couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, in recent years, we’ve been witnessing the revival of stop motion animation.
If you’re interested in learning animation, knowing how to use stop motion tools and frame-by-frame animation could help you remain relevant in what’s becoming a rather competitive industry.
The History of Stop Motion Animation
To better understand how this filmmaking technique has developed to create the popular stop motion movies we know and love, it’s important to understand the evolution of stop motion over the years.
H3: Origins of Stop Motion
Although the film has been lost to time, it is believed that The Humpty Dumpty Circus (1898) was the first stop motion film, although this cannot be confirmed and earlier stop motion attempts may have existed. This film is rumored to feature a variety of circus toys that were inspired by a toy set owned by the creator’s daughter.
Evolution of the Medium
Throughout the mid- and late-twentieth century, stop motion animation continued to grow in popularity. As stop motion animation studios sprung up and developed their own unique methods of capturing frame-by-frame animation, more films were released that captivated audiences. Famous stop motion movie examples from this time include:
Decline and Resurgence
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, computer technology drastically improved — as did accessibility to computer-generated imagery (CGI). During this time, many animation studios began to shift to using CGI as a more cost-effective means of creating detailed animations in less time and with fewer limitations.
Despite the dichotomy between stop motion vs. CGI, however, there has always remained a niche market for traditional frame-by-frame animation. In recent years, we’ve also begun to see a resurgence in the popularity of stop animation techniques — especially when used in conjunction with other technologies and innovations.
Why Stop Motion Is Thriving in Modern Animation
Given all the advanced CGI and other digital technologies available to filmmakers, how does stop motion animation continue to thrive?
Tangible and Timeless Appeal
Never underestimate the power of nostalgia. For those who grew up watching stop motion classics like The Nightmare Before Christmas, seeing new stop motion short films, TV shows and movies come out is like nothing else. This, in addition to a continued appreciation for the work that goes into making stop motion animations, keeps demand relatively high.
Advancements in Technology
Rather than thinking of contemporary animation technology as a hindrance to stop motion animation, it may be more useful for filmmakers to explore the many ways in which current technologies and classic techniques can synergize together. For example, CGI technology can help generate set elements or features that may otherwise be difficult to create using stop motion puppets or claymation animation alone.
Growing Niche Demand
Stop motion animation maintains a strong niche following. Specifically, GarageFarm.net writes, “The success of [studios like] Laika and Aardman Animations shows that there is still a market for stop motion films. Furthermore, stop motion is often embraced for commercials, music videos and short films, where its visual appeal stands out.”
Challenges of Stop Motion Animation
Compared to other animation methods, stop motion animators face unique obstacles to plan for and overcome.
Time-Intensive Production
For one, because creating stop motion animations requires each frame to be captured individually, the process of creating an entire film or television show using this method can be incredibly time-consuming. Shooting a single scene can easily take hours or even days, which can make predicting exact release dates (and staying on schedule) a challenge for even the most experienced of professionals.
Budget Constraints
The amount of time and resources needed to create stop motion animations means these projects can become expensive rather quickly. It is not uncommon for stop motion projects to go over budget. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), for instance, was reported to cost upwards of $18 million by the time it was completed.
Technical and Artistic Limitations
Additionally, stop motion animators face a number of technical and artistic limitations in their work. Challenges with stop motion lighting can lead to unwanted shadows or continuity issues during filming. Meanwhile, unwanted camera movements and the fragility of stop motion props (such as puppets and set materials) can create additional obstacles during filming.
The Rewards of Stop Motion Animation
Despite any challenges that accompany stop motion animation, the finished product can be more than worth the time and effort.
Artistic Expression
Compared to other filmmaking methods, stop motion animation offers an unrivaled outlet for artistic expression. Animators can really challenge their imaginations by creating one-of-a-kind works of art while enjoying a real sense of accomplishment once the job is done.
Audience Engagement
There’s nothing quite like watching a stop motion production on the screen. With its striking elements and unique character, stop motion animation delivers a memorable and engaging experience for viewers that cannot be recreated with other mediums.
Industry Recognition
Because there aren’t as many stop motion animators working on projects anymore, learning how to apply stop motion animation tips and best practices can lead to recognition across the animation industry. This could be an optimal opportunity for up-and-coming animators to challenge themselves and set their work apart.
Iconic Stop Motion Projects of the Modern Era
The following remarkable examples of stop motion animation in film, television and beyond might just inspire you to get the ball rolling on one of your own projects.
Film Examples
Just a couple of the most notable stop motion animation films of recent years include:
- Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) embraces a handcrafted, textured aesthetic that enhances its whimsical charm.
- ParaNorman (2012) pushes the medium’s technical boundaries with fluid character animation and innovative use of 3D printing for expressive facial performances.
Television and Streaming
These stop motion animation television shows and streaming series have also left their mark:
- Robot Chicken (2001-2022) utilizes rapid-fire stop motion animation with a rough, toy-like aesthetic to create its signature satirical sketch comedy.
- The House (2022) employs meticulously crafted stop motion puppetry and detailed set designs to build its eerie, surreal anthology of unsettling stories.
Indie and Experimental Works
A range of other stop motion animation projects include:
- “Mad God” by Phil Tippett
- “The Burden” by Niki Lindroth von Bahr
- “Oh Willy…” by Emma De Swaef and Marc James Roels
- “Anomalisa” by Charlie Kaufman and Duke Johnson
- “Negative Space” by Max Porter and Ru Kuwahata
- “This Magnificent Cake!” by Emma De Swaef and Marc James Roels
- “Bottle” by Kirsten Lepore
- “Street of Crocodiles” by The Quay Brothers
- “Guldies” (YouTube Channel by Alexander Unger)
- “My Life in Versailles” by Clémence Madeleine-Perdrillat and Nathaniel H’limi
The Future of Stop Motion Animation
There’s no denying that stop motion animation has progressed considerably since its beginning — but what does the future hold for this creative medium? Only time will tell, but a few notable innovations and trends in stop motion techniques are worth noting.
Innovations in Stop Motion Techniques
Today, advancements in CGI technology make it possible to create more incredible stop motion animations than ever before. Using computer-generated graphics, stop motion animators can add unique set elements and even emphasize facial expressions in ways they couldn’t with traditional methods alone.
Expanding Accessibility
For those interested in experimenting with stop motion animation, the tools and software programs needed to create these types of animations have also become more readily accessible. Specifically, online platforms and apps like Adobe After Effects and iMotion make it easier for just about anyone to put their creativity to work.
Cultural Relevance and Legacy
Stop motion animation has stood the test of time, with a following now spanning more than three centuries. In turn, it’s likely that it will remain culturally relevant and leave a lasting legacy on the filmmaking industry.
Choose From an On-Campus or Online Animation Program at RMCAD
Although stop motion tools and techniques have come a long way over the years, the reality is that today’s leading stop motion studios are still using and building upon the foundational principles of early animators. The result is modern stop motion films that seamlessly blend contemporary tools and technologies with classic stop motion techniques.
Do you aspire to be part of the next generation of stop motion artists or explore other careers in animation? If so, then it may be time to consider Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation degree programs — including our Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2D Animation and Bachelor of Fine Arts in 3D Animation. These programs are both offered in your choice of on-campus or online format to suit your scheduling needs, focusing on foundational skills and techniques regarding topics such as motion studies, visual storytelling, character design and more.
Learn more about the animation programs offered at RMCAD by requesting further information today. You can also take the next step in your journey by filling out your application for admission.