The Role of Backgrounds (Bgs) in Animation
In animation, everything is interconnected. From pre-production to post-production, every element works together to create the moving picture. Like any other creative endeavor, animation is a team effort. But what about BGs? What is the role of Backgrounds (Bgs) in Animation?
A background (BG, decor) is the environment behind the action. It provides all the essential information about the “where” (setting, place), “when” (time), and “how” (atmosphere) of the action. To grasp the importance of a background, imagine the characters performing their animation on a blank white sheet of paper. Not very interesting or eye-catching, right?
BG vs. Illustration and Other Forms of Visual Representation
Before diving into the specifics of a BG, let’s highlight its differences from other kinds of images, like paintings and illustrations. Apart from the obvious fact that in a BG we do not draw the character but only the setting, a significant difference is this: A painting can remain in the viewer’s field of vision for as long as desired, drawing information and emotions. A BG, being part of a moving image, stays in the viewer’s field of vision for only a few seconds. In these fleeting moments, we must convey all the information—setting, time, emotion, and atmosphere of the action.
So, what should a background achieve in animation? Let’s explore:
Serving the Script
Firstly, BGs serve the story by providing the setting, time, and atmosphere described in the script. For example, let’s say our hero walks through a forest at night and is happy because he is going to meet his beloved. Or imagine he is sad because his beloved left him, or he is scared because hidden eyes are watching him from the tree hollows. In these three examples, the background is still a forest at night. But is it the SAME forest? No! Depending on the emotional state described in the script (joy for meeting the beloved, sadness because the beloved left, tension due to a monster following), we will use corresponding colors and shading to capture the feeling. We will cover the huge COLORS CHAPTER in more detail in other posts, dedicated to color!
Character Enhancement
The BG should not compete with the hero but complement them. We achieve this in the following ways:
- Use colors in a close tonal range.
- Avoid strong contrasts, especially with pure colors.
- Note: The above rule about contrasts doesn’t apply if the hero is a black silhouette (amorsa).
- Avoid excessive details or textures in the path of action to prevent distracting the eye from the action.
- Manipulate light sources to create lighting that serves the action and the script. Check this post to understand how important is the use of light sources.
Cost Efficiency
BGs should generally be produced quickly. Whether for commercials or TV series, it may be necessary to produce one to two, or even three BGs per day. Therefore, materials like oil, which take time to dry, are not recommended. Of course, there are projects like “Loving Vincent” that were created completely as oil paintings mimicking Van Gogh’s style. (Below is a small video from my testing work on this project)
Creating backgrounds (BGs) for animation is a complex and integral part of the storytelling process. Unlike illustrations that can be observed for extended periods, BGs must convey essential information about the setting, time, and atmosphere in just a few fleeting moments. They must serve the script by enhancing the story, complementing the characters, and maintaining cost efficiency without compromising on quality. In essence, BGs are the unsung heroes of animation. The role of Backgrounds (Bgs) in Animation is to provide the foundation upon which the characters and story come to life, ensuring that every scene is captivating and visually coherent.
Cheers,
Ersi
Interested in learning more about background art for 2d animation?
Check out our other posts : Tips on Background Art in 2D Animation !
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