The paperback book Elemental Magic, Volume II: The Technique of Special Effects Animation from Focal Press is authored by former Disney animator and animated effects expert Joseph Gilland, and teaches you how to design beautiful and professional-level animated effects with detailed step-by-step tutorials. Filled with full-color artwork, this book breaks down the animated effects process from beginning to end including booming explosions, gusting winds, magical incantations, and raging fires. It also breaks down the process of effects "cleanup", as well as timing and frame rates.
The companion website includes real-time footage of the author lecturing as he animates the drawings from the book. In these videos, he elucidates the entire process from blank page to final animation. Throughout the book, Joseph refers to and includes examples from his own professional work from feature films such as Lilo & Stitch and Tarzan.
- The Elements
- The Wave
- The Splash
- Lighting a Fire
- Blowing It Up
- The Magic Touch