The word "animatic" is a term used in the animation industry to refer to a rough version of an animated sequence. It is pronounced /ænɪˈmætɪk/ (an-uh-mat-ik), with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the word is derived from the combination of "animation" and "ematic", which refers to a system of measurement or analysis. The correct spelling of this word is important in the animation industry as it is used to describe a critical stage in the development of an animated project.
An animatic refers to a preliminary version of an animated film or video, created by compiling a sequence of individual storyboard panels or sketches together. It is essentially a rough sketch or visualization of how the final animation will look and flow. The purpose of an animatic is to give filmmakers, animators, and other creative professionals a rough idea of the timing, pacing, and overall composition of the animated project before investing time and resources in producing the final version.
Typically, an animatic includes static drawings, storyboards, or concept art that are arranged and edited sequentially to create a sense of motion and narrative. This initial visual representation is often accompanied by temporary or unfinished sound effects, voiceovers, or dialogue to further enhance the viewing experience and help clarify the intended storyline. Animatics allow the creators to test and refine their ideas, make necessary adjustments, and receive feedback from collaborators or clients before proceeding to the time-consuming and expensive animation phase.
The term "animatic" combines elements of "animation" and "automatic" to signify the blend of visual storytelling with a predetermined sequence of images. It plays a crucial role in the pre-production process of animated films, television shows, commercials, and video games, serving as a valuable tool for visualizing and refining the overall design, timing, and narrative structure of the final animated product.
The word "animatic" is a combination of two words: "animation" and "automatic".
The term "animation" originates from the Latin word "animare", meaning "to bring to life" or "to give breath to". This term was first coined in the late 18th century to describe the process of creating moving images or illusions of movement. It gained popularity in the early 20th century with the advent of animated films and cartoons.
The word "automatic" has its roots in the Greek word "automatos", meaning "self-acting" or "self-moving". It was originally used to describe something that operates or works without human control or intervention.
When combined, "animation" and "automatic" formed the word "animatic" to refer to a process of creating a rough, pre-production version of an animated film or video.