Planning Animations Using Cinematography Knowledge

Our research proposes and demonstrates with a prototype system an automated aid for animators in presenting their ideas and intentions using the large range of techniques available in cinematography. An experienced animator can use techniques far more expressive than the simple presentation of spatial arrangements. They can use effects and idioms such as framing, pacing, colour selection, lighting, cuts, pans and zooms to express their ideas. In different contexts, a combination of techniques can create an enhanced effect or lead to conflicting effects. Thus there is a rich environment for automated reasoning and planning about cinematographic knowledge. Our system employs a knowledge base of cinematographic techniques such as lighting, colour choice, framing, and pacing to enhance the expressive power of an animation. The prototype system does not create animations, but assists in their generation. It is intended to enhance the expressiveness of a possibly inexperienced animator when working in this medium.