PROCESS
Our process starts with envisioning the end product together. Whether you provide a detailed brief or we collaborate to create one, we will then draft a proposal and estimate, giving you a clear roadmap. Once agreed, it's time to break ground.
Source
Similar to a builder who not only gathers materials but also surveys the land and understands the environment before starting construction, the Source phase involves extensive research and gathering of all necessary resources. We conduct in-depth literature reviews, study scientific articles, consult with experts, and dissect key pathways to fully comprehend the subject. Simultaneously, we gather crucial information from you, such as the project's key objectives, target audience, scope and constraints, along with the desired tone of voice, themes, level of detail and style. We ask for any existing marketing materials, brand and style guides, and available product files. This rigorous sourcing phase sets the solid groundwork for the animation project.
Scaffold
Using our carefully crafted audiovisual (AV) script as a blueprint in this Pre-Production phase, we start to erect the structure of your animation. The AV script contains the voiceover narration (approximately 120 words per minute), detailed descriptions of visuals, imagery, and on-screen text. We initiate look development with different concepts to define the aesthetic tone of the animation, considering colors, textures, lighting, and detail levels, all tailored to the project's desired style. Once these aspects are refined, we create style frames as a visual guide for the animation's direction. Simultaneously, we design the storyboard and then the animatic, providing a sequential framework and a sense of timing, flow, and movement.
Construct
Also known as Production, this dynamic phase is where the 'building' truly begins. The 3D application becomes our main tool, and the insights we gathered from the thorough research now fuel the creation of true-to-life characters and scenes. Molecules, devices, and body structures all are modeled and rigged with precision. This phase also includes the choreography of movement, which can be enhanced by musical cues. Dynamic camera work and animation sequences provide an intimate feeling of presence in the scene and engage the viewer from one key point to another. While reality at the molecular level can be dense, complex and chaotic, the essentials are artfully extracted and set in focus, leaving breathing room for the viewer. The result is an understandable visual narrative that immerses the viewer in the science at play. As the project progresses, shots evolve from unshaded drafts to intricately detailed, photorealistically rendered frames.
Finish
Post-Production is akin to applying the final touches to a structure. Here we composite the rendered frames with compelling visual effects to enhance the aesthetic appeal and believability of the scenes. Titles and motion graphics are integrated to guide comprehension. The voiceover narration weaves into the visuals, making the scientific narrative come alive. Carefully selected music amplifies the animation's emotional depth, and subtle sound design adds another layer of immersion. All elements are edited until they seamlessly form a captivating story. The project concludes with packaging all the deliverables for you, for reuse in a variety of applications.
Inspect
Just as an architect reviews their designs and a building inspector evaluates the structure at every stage, we invite your feedback and incorporate it at each step. This can include a comprehensive medical-legal review at the end to ensure accuracy and compliance. From the Source phase to the final Finish, your perspectives help us refine and perfect our work, ensuring the animation aligns with your vision. This iterative process enables us to create a scientifically accurate, visually stunning animation that exceeds your expectations and communicates your message effectively.
Ready to bring your scientific narrative to life?
Let's get in touch and create something extraordinary together.
Typical breakdown of phases through a project timespan