Type and image have the potential to (literally) take on another dimension when used in motion graphics. As with our previous work, this project will explore the process of combining “traditional” graphic design elements (such as composition, color, shape, depth, contrast, etc.) with time-based design elements (such as pacing, rhythm, and sequence), with a specific focus on typography and the dynamic, unique communicative potential of type in motion.

For Project 2, you will begin by finding an audio clip of a spoken quote that is of personal interest to you. This audio can be contemporary or historic, can come from a speech, a news broadcast, a movie or television show, a podcast, comedy set, poem, or book—just choose something that you’re excited to work with because both the topic and manner of speech seem interesting to you.

The audio clips should be approximately 20-40 seconds long, and should be spoken rather than sung (you will have the opportunity to use music in our final project). From your selected audio clip, you will create a kinetic piece that focuses on the ability of moving type and image to effectively and thoughtfully communicate the story being told in your audio clip. Sound and carefully considered supporting imagery will also be important in the communication of your message and evolution of your narrative.

Your finished piece should be a dynamic and unique communicative experience. Remember to include the source / attribution of your audio clip in your piece (we will discuss this in class).

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PROJECT PARAMETERS:

+ Incorporation of typography, image, color (etc).
+ Incorporation of sound spoken word, sound effects, music (?)]
+ Composition size: 1920 x 1080 px
+ Duration: 30-40 seconds (This duration includes the incorporation of your source and attribution information.)

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FINAL DELIVERABLES:

+ Sketch process – Pencil sketches and storyboards
+ Key Frame Comps
+ Final End Frame
+ Rough draft video
+ Final video

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PROCESS:

Research
+ Seek and find an audio statement / content culled from sources such as TED Talks, etc.
+ Length: The content should be approximately 20-40 words long.
+ Include the source / attribution and context, approximately 10-15 words

(This should include who is speaking, a brief context of when it was said if possible, and the actual source and date. For example: President Obama, Addressing the Nation in the State of the Union, The New York Times, January 15, 2013).

Concept Development
Develop 3 distinctly different design concepts for your News Flash project. Concepts should be represented by digital “key frame comps” (Illustrator). Comps will show three different concepts for visual language, typography, and other design elements. Be prepared to discuss your concept directions and verbally support your design choices.

Design Development
Based on the feedback and critique you received in class, further develop and refine the chosen design direction for presentation and critique.

Final project deliverables — Project 2 Final, Final Storyboard of sequence.

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NOTES ON LOOKING FOR QUOTES + SOURCES:

+ Quotes could be current news, history, pop-culture related…
+ TED Talks, https://www.ted.com/
+ Fox and Friends, https://www.foxnews.com/shows/fox-and-friends
+ State of the Union, https://www.whitehouse.gov/sotu/(etc…)

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OBJECTIVES:

+ Introduction to kinetic type and image as a narrative tool

+ Consider “traditional” typographic characteristics (typeface, type size, kerning, tracking, leading, etc.) in addition to characteristics of kinetic type (kinetic ” behavior”)

+ Emphasis on the visual language of typography (its relationship to and visual interpretation of the content)—not just the written language of the words themselves

+ Continue to investigate the combination of “traditional” design attributes (color, composition, shape, depth, tension, contrast) and “time-based” attributes (progression, pacing, rhythm, sequence, velocity, kinetic behavior)

+ Continue to investigate the development of a narrative arc

+ Develop a more advanced and complex relationship between audio and moving visual elements

+ Continue to develop technical After Effects skills

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SCHEDULE:

Wednesday, February 25: Project Intro

Monday, March 2: Tech demo / studio work time
Due this class: Read chapter 9, “Typography in Time and Motion,” from Typographic Design: From and Communication (PDF provided below in Resources section)
Research audio track options.

Wednesday, March 4: Small Groups / Working Session
– Due this class: audio choices/options.
– Begin exploring visual language (typography, imagery/image treatment etc. – can be illustration, abstract visual language, photographic, etc.) and color palette.

Monday, March 9: Class Critique: Concept Directions / Working Session
Due this class: Three distinctly different visual concepts for your News Flash project.
– Sketch widely to define three possible visual language concept directions.
– Concepts should be represented by digital “key frame comps” (Illustrator). Comps will show three different concepts for visual language, typography, and other design elements. Be prepared to discuss your concept directions and verbally support your design choices.
– Also due today: your chosen audio clip, cut to the correct length
Working session:
– Begin to work on the storyboard for your chosen concept direction.

Wednesday, March 11: Small group Critique cont.
– Revised key frames for chosen concept based on feedback
– Storyboard for selected concept direction (base all of your concepts off of your chosen audio clip).
The number of frames in your storyboard can vary depending on your audio selection, but most will likely average 8-12 frames.
– First Draft of at least 10-15 seconds (approximately one half of full piece)

>> Spring Break March 16 – 19: No Classes <<

Monday, March 23:
Due : First Full Draft of News Flash Project for Class Critique (30-40 seconds)

Wednesday, March 25:
Working session / One-On-Ones

Monday, March 30: Class Critique
Due this class: Refined Full Draft

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News Flash Project Inspirations

https://vimeo.com/127049709

https://vimeo.com/180541460

https://vimeo.com/127558855

https://vimeo.com/127549438

https://vimeo.com/127421575

https://vimeo.com/209305847

https://vimeo.com/70753605

https://vimeo.com/70579329

https://vimeo.com/70162676

https://vimeo.com/68589520

https://vimeo.com/68759183

https://vimeo.com/71554079

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RELATED TUTORIALS FOR PROJECT:

Kinetic Typography Tutorial (Crooked Gremlins)
http://vimeo.com/1271357

Puppet Tool Tutorial
https://helpx.adobe.com/after-effects/using/animating-puppet-tools.html

Same tutorial in text form:
http://bundlr.com/clips/4e491c3cb5fedf000100034b

Lynda.com
http://www.lynda.com/After-Effects-tutorials/Kinetic-Typography-Techniques-After-Effects/123481-2.html

Effects:
http://www.videocopilot.net/basic/tutorials/02.Effects/
Adding effects; working with presets palette

Working With Track Mattes:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyL-zjMlxnA

Setting up Null Object for Camera Control:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kP9LyCYhv-w

Shape Layer Tricks:
http://www.macprovideo.com/hub/after-effects/shape-layer-tricks-in-after-effects

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Image: State of the World Final, Bowei Chen