CELS is an acronym that stands for "Character Effects and Lip Sync." It is a term commonly used in the field of animation and computer graphics to describe the process of adding various effects and lip synchronization to animated characters.
In animation, CELS refers to the hand-drawn transparent sheets, known as cel sheets, on which individual frames of an animation sequence are created. These sheets are then placed on top of each other to compose the animation. In the context of CELS, character effects involve the application of visual effects to characters, such as lighting effects, shading, and other enhancements that add depth and realism to their appearance.
Lip sync, on the other hand, refers to the synchronization of animated characters' lip movements with the dialogue or audio they are speaking or singing. This process involves matching the movement of the character's mouth to the corresponding sounds or words, ensuring that the animation accurately reflects the speech or singing.
CELS is a crucial step in the animation production pipeline, as it adds the finishing touches to the characters and brings them to life. It allows the characters to express emotions, speak, and interact with their environment convincingly. With advancements in computer graphics, much of the traditional hand-drawn cel animation has been replaced by digital techniques, making the process more efficient and versatile.
Overall, CELS encompasses the artistic and technical aspects of adding effects and lip synchronization to animated characters, creating a seamless and engaging visual experience.
