Here is my process demo for the creation of the Nucleus Studio bumper.

Phase 1: Ideation Sketch on Paper

Computers make us more efficient, but not as a first step. At the earliest stage I sketch ideas in analog. I don’t go computing the first idea without a vetting process. With waste basket near, ruthlessly cutting obvious solutions, I seek the best idea with mind, pen, and paper.

In this case, I know I’m going to use the company ‘n’ logo, and somehow resolve it to the logotype. So the sketch reflects that, with a transition to a pictorial representation of a ‘nucleus’ or ‘center.’ Synonyms are rich ground for visual metaphor and implicit imagery.

Now a rough concept exists as a starting point for creating digital assets that will supply the video.

Phase 2: Storyboard

The storyboard is a tool for collaboration. It gives every stakeholder a chance to comment on the tangible and visible assets before energy is applied to animation. We re-create the concept in vector while refining style elements, approaching the final design.

The initial sketch suggests letters sliding out from behind the ‘n’ to reveal the entire word. This was ultimately rejected because it was too easy and predictable. A choice was made to incorporate more organic forms to create a natural feel. A step above simply moving shapes and letters around. Therefore we added the black ooze that melts away, revealing the logotype.

These choices led to the use of frame animation in addition to keyframe based motion graphic techniques.

Phase 3: Animatic

The animatic represents the beginning of production after the design has been finalized. Key frames are identified and realized in sequence. There is no concern given to effects or color, just the action that provides foundation and substance.

Phase 4: In-Between Animation

Probably the most time-consuming phase, but with focus and patience, frames are drawn in vector in a frame animation app and exported as a video asset. Skipping the image here because I would be cutting frames for the gif, defeating the point.

Phase 5: Color, Lighting, and Motion Effects

To finalize this work I establish the color, lighting, and timing that gives a soft, intimate, projection theater vibe.

Et voilà.