When I started learning more about animation, I realised that timing is one of the most important things that makes a scene feel real. At first, I thought animation was mainly about drawing well, but I quickly understood that how things move over time is just as important. Even a simple action can look completely different depending on how fast or slow it happens.
Frame rates matters
I began by researching frame rates, which is basically how many frames are shown per second. Most professional animations use 24 frames per second (fps), which makes movement look very smooth. However, I found out that many animators use 12 fps by drawing fewer frames and showing each one twice. This is called “animating on twos,” and it’s really useful because it saves time while still looking good. This is especially helpful for me since I’m working on my project alone.
Feast
Feast is a 2014 American animated short film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios and directed by Patrick Osborne.
I noticed that when the dog is eating, the movements are very fast and energetic, which makes the scene feel lively and a bit chaotic. But in more emotional moments, the animation slows down, and the character’s movements become more subtle. This contrast in timing helps show different moods without using dialogue.
Hair Love
I also watched Hair Love - 2019 American animated short film written and co-directed by Matthew A. Cherry, alongside Everett Downing Jr. and Bruce W. Smith. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation and Lion Forge Animation.
In this film, timing is used really well to show personality and emotion. For example, when the father is trying to do his daughter’s hair, his movements are slow and awkward, which makes the scene funny and relatable. Later, the pacing becomes slower and calmer during emotional parts, which helps the audience connect with the characters.
Kitbull
At the beginning, the characters move slowly and carefully because they are unsure of each other. As they become friends, their movements become quicker and more playful. I found this really interesting because it shows how timing can reflect a character’s feelings and relationships.
Picture by Google
What I have learned from this research:
From this research, I have learned that timing is what truly brings animation to life. Even if the drawings are simple, good timing can make them feel natural and expressive. I also learned that I don’t need to animate everything at a high frame rate—using techniques like animating on twos can save time while still looking effective.
From this research, I have learned that timing is what truly brings animation to life. Even if the drawings are simple, good timing can make them feel natural and expressive. I also learned that I don’t need to animate everything at a high frame rate—using techniques like animating on twos can save time while still looking effective.
How this will help my final project
Overall, this will help me to understand how to balance quality and practicality in my own animation project. This technique I will certainly use in my fantasy animation project.


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