Adding additional shots.

The animatic process allowed me to consider what elements from the project needed to be included in relation to shots and animation. In addition, it gave me time to consider how I could better clarify a scene, ensure the pace of the narrative was correct and strengthen areas that could have been stronger. An example is when Light rises from the bottom of the shot; I added a close-up shot so the audience could understand the character’s feelings within that moment.

One section of the animatic that needed additional shots was at the project's beginning, sequence 1, where Light chases Shadow. I initially envisioned this section at an increasingly tense pace; however, I could not execute this initial idea in the animatic process. As a result, I added alternative shots to make the sequence run smoother.

All the additional shots I had incorporated into the animatic were carefully considered regarding my skill abilities and timescale to complete them. For me, the leading animation was already incorporated into the animatic. The additional shots' primary purpose was to support the main animation.

I found it interesting that it was only when I began to bring the animation together that I, as a filmmaker, realise the importance of adding and or subtracting a scene or shot. In this part of the production process, I was trying to perceive the project from the perspective of an animator and a storyteller. Sometimes it isn’t easy to transition from one mindset to another when that mentality calls for it. An example is animating and being satisfied with a shot or sequence I spent hours/days on but then realised it no longer had a place within the project at a later editing stage. As a result, one can find themselves torn between pride for the animated work and concluding that it no longer adds value to the project.

Adding additional shots also helped me think about different dynamic poses and how to express my animation better. Some animations I had already completed needed to be more exciting. However, this is due to constant analysis and as a result, the animation has lost its charm due to desensitisation.