2D Character in Live-Action

The project consists of two video-based teaching units designed to encourage primary school children to question gender-based role models in a playful way. To this end, an animated presenter was created who both interacts within a live-action setting and guides viewers through fully animated scenes. The first step in integrating the 2D character into live-action was character development. The character was to be a bird that interacts with the presenters. A style was developed and illustrated, after which an animation rig was created in After Effects. For work on set, a stand-in was created to ensure a consistent line of sight for the presenters. This stand-in was mounted on the sets and removed in post-production using a clean plate. All elements were brought together during compositing. Voice-over recordings for the bird were captured, and automation was generated using Expressions to make the beak move in response to audio level fluctuations. It was particularly important to create an animation with plenty of appeal to ensure an engaging experience for the target audience and to hold their attention throughout the lesson.