By Daniel Anaya

This vector graphic animation project was designed to showcase the ability to create illustrative vector graphics and then give them motion using the After Effects software. For this project, I decided to create a looping animation of a deer in a simple nature scene with a small twist at the end. 

    

    

Creating professional vector graphic animations begin with creating a simple visual for how the animation will appear. These sketches helped me to organize the idea that I had into stages or frames that I would later be able to reference in creating the final design.

    

    

After solidifying the visual plan with the storyboard, the next step was to create the assets in Illustrator. This image shows the different layers or pieces that would be utilized in the final animation.

    

    

Once the assets were created, the next step was to get an idea of how each layer would move once placed into After Effects. This video demonstrates a simple sketch animatic of how the animation would play out.

   

    

Shown here is the final animation. The animation uses original vector graphics created in Illustrator then exported to After Effects. Several techniques were used to create a visually interesting animation that loops smoothly and consistently. My favorite part was animating the walking movement of the deer, as well as the imploding sun.

Overall, I truly enjoyed working on this project. I have gained solid foundations in using the After Effects software, as well as learning how to create professional and effective vector graphic animations.