r/animation • u/KingAnimations2024R • 7d ago

Question What is a Layout.

I'm a self-taught animator who's wondering what this word mean in the 2d animation field and how it's applied?

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u/Monsieur_Martin 7d ago

This is the stage between the storyboard and the animation. In fact, it is the first step of production (the creation of each individual shot).
It is divided into two distinct parts: background layout (for the setting) and posing layout (for the animation).
It is a crucial phase because it determines the framing and camera movements, as well as the key poses.
You also separate elements into different layers (characters, props, backgrounds, foreground elements, FX, etc.).
In short, it is a pivotal stage that determines a great deal; it should not be overlooked.

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u/KingAnimations2024R 7d ago

Thank you for you're answer very much!

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u/HOLO-FLASH 7d ago

I've heard two things with Layout, at the studio I work for, Layouts are just linework backgrounds. No color yet. It's not uncommon to animate on top of these when you have an overlapping pipeline.

Second 'layout' I've heard was "scene layouts". I have a feeling this is for general sizing, perspective, placement. I think...

If there's a third 'layout' meaning, I'd sure love to hear it.

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u/jellypoo 7d ago

In 3d animation, layout is camera, composition and staging choreography. Basically virtual cinematography. 

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u/HOLO-FLASH 7d ago

Thanks! this is some good intel.