Computer Arts Projects issue 117

This month we’ve focused on motion graphics and animation, in all its forms – broadcast graphics, character animation, music videos, advertising, and more. The range of work in our Showcase pages demonstrates just how much this area of design is growing, and the future is exciting. Whether you’re just getting started in motion work or have years of experience, we’ve got essential tips from the experts, and you can also learn from the experience of Studio AKA and their successful Lloyds TSB TV adverts.

Our tutorials this month will help you choose the best software to use for each motion graphics project, so you can achieve the best results in the quickest time. Gary Noden explains 3D animation in Maya 2008, Paul Wyatt and Luke Feldman make use of After Effects, and Peskimo turn to Flash for their character animations. And as Liquid TV explain in their interview, they use whichever software best suits the individual project.

Whatever area of motion graphics design you’re involved in, I’d love to hear about it – you can email me at the address below. Until next month, enjoy the issue.

Kate Evans Editor

IN THE MAG

Project one: Motion graphics essentials

50 motion graphics tips
Four industry experts share their essential advice

Designer challenge
Three designers create a short motion graphics sequence

Project two: Character animation

Studio AKA interview
Marc Craste and Mic Graves talk computer graphics with Dean Evans

Characters in motion
Peskimo show you how to add dimension and depth to your characters

Project three: Broadcast graphics and music

Liquid TV interview
The ‘ITV England’ creators on animation and title sequences

Animated illustration
Paul Wyatt reveals how to mix live action and 3D elements with an animated illustration

Gig graphics
Jeremy Stewart explains how he designs motion sequences

Animated text
Follow Luke Feldman’s guide to creating text for a music video

Project four: Advanced techniques

World in motion
Nick Spence analyses why the motion graphics industry is thriving

Rob Chiu
Learn how to integrate motion design into live action

Accurate 3D deformation
Gary Noden reveals some simple techniques in Maya 2008