How is the animation industry improving video production accessibility?

1 Cloud-based platforms

One of the main barriers to entry for animation production is the need for expensive and specialized hardware and software. However, cloud-based platforms are changing that by offering online tools and services that allow anyone to create, edit, and share animations from any device and location. For example, Toon Boom Harmony is a cloud-based animation software that lets users access a range of features and assets without installing anything on their computers. Similarly, Nimble Studio is a cloud-based platform that enables teams to collaborate on animation projects remotely and securely. These platforms not only reduce the costs and risks of animation production, but also increase the flexibility and scalability of workflows.

2 Open-source software

Another way that the animation industry is improving video production accessibility is by embracing open-source software. Open-source software is software that is freely available and can be modified and distributed by anyone. This means that users can access powerful and innovative tools without paying for licenses or subscriptions. For example, Blender is an open-source software that offers a complete suite of 3D animation features, such as modeling, rigging, rendering, and compositing. It also has a large and active community of developers and users who contribute to its improvement and support. Likewise, Synfig Studio is an open-source software that specializes in 2D vector animation and supports a variety of formats and styles. These software not only democratize the access to animation tools, but also foster creativity and collaboration among users.

4 Diversity and inclusion

Another aspect that is improving video production accessibility in the animation industry is the promotion of diversity and inclusion. Diversity and inclusion are the recognition and respect of the differences and similarities among people, such as their backgrounds, cultures, identities, and perspectives. This means that the animation industry is striving to create more inclusive and representative content, as well as to support more diverse and talented creators. For example, The Animation Diversity Initiative is a nonprofit organization that aims to increase the representation and participation of underrepresented groups in the animation industry through programs, events, and resources. Likewise, The Animation Project is a nonprofit organization that uses animation as a tool to empower and engage youth from marginalized communities through education, mentoring, and career development. These initiatives not only enhance the quality and diversity of animation content, but also create more opportunities and pathways for animation creators.

5 Artificial intelligence

Another trend that is improving video production accessibility in the animation industry is the use of artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, such as learning, reasoning, and problem-solving. This means that the animation industry is leveraging artificial intelligence to automate and enhance some of the tasks and processes involved in animation production, such as lip-syncing, motion capture, and rendering. For example, Unreal Engine is a game engine that uses artificial intelligence to generate realistic and expressive facial animations from audio files. Similarly, DeepMotion is a company that uses artificial intelligence to create realistic and dynamic motion animations from videos or sensors. These artificial intelligence applications not only save time and money for animation production, but also improve the quality and realism of animation output.