Here is a rough outline of what our full-service 3D production process is like. While the process is not always the same for every project this outlines the general process that most projects follow.
We listen to you:
Once we've received a quote request we'll ask the important questions that help us understand your needs and vision. We'll review your script, ideas or concept art and learn what your project is all about. We usually prefer to meet in person but, if that is not possible, we will arrange a phone call or Internet meeting with you to get a full understanding of the project.
Project Proposal:
We'll discuss storyboards, reference or concept art and if needed will create quick concept sketches for you to see. Once all of the visual elements of what your project needs have been discussed, we will then make our assessment on the cost of production and put together a budget and project proposal.
Project Proposal Discussion:
Once we have assessed the project, we will discuss our preliminary project proposal with you and address any of your concerns. If any changes to the proposal are needed, we will make them at this time. Once agreed upon, we enter into a formal production agreement.
Pre-Production:
During Pre-Production, we do nothing but explore ideas and continue to elaborate on your vision. This is also the time when all of the final design and style decisions are made for every aspect of the project including storyboards and a story reel to get an idea of the timing and pace of how the completed project will look. Presentations on various design choices are often made to the client until every aspect is covered and the client is happy with what will be created in the Production phase.
3D Modeling, Texturing and Rigging:
This is the start of the production phase where we create all of the 3D assets, apply textures/color and prepare all of the characters to be animated. All of these objects are created according to the clients specifications from the Pre-Production phase.
Camera Blocking and Set Dressing:
We take the initial storyboards and story reel created and now apply it to a 3D set. This establishes action, layout, timing and flow. We add rough audio & dialog where applicable and output a compressed movie which is used as the final reference for the finished product. This is also reviewed with the client to make any necessary adjustments.
Final Animation & Rendering Begins:
Finally, final animation begins where all the acting and final feel of the finished product is completed. It is then rendered with any final special effects and sent to Compositing. Here several layers of images special effects and final color mix are composited together to get the final look of the project.
Sound and Editing:
Once the final shots are completed and made into digital movie files, the final shots are sent to be edited together into one complete piece and have sound added to them.
Completed Animation for Client Review:
We discuss the finished work with the client and any last minute requests for changes. Then the finished piece is output to the specified format for Final Delivery. The project is now completed and we all celebrate for a job well-done!
|
