Pixar has released a free online course to explain the science and technology behind its approach to making computer-generated animated films. The interactive course covers most of the math-based aspects of the production pipeline, such as character modeling, environment modeling, combinatorics, animation physics, and surface rendering.
Here's the intro video (link to YouTube), which amusingly shows a lot of handmade skills (such as sculpting clay and drawing with markers—and relatively primitive technology, such as an Ektagraphic slide projector.
This video, for example, takes a look at the lighting factors and surface qualities that contribute to the color of an object. (Link to YouTube) The presentation seems intended for school-age learners rather than fellow professionals or mega-geeks. Each segment is presented by someone from the department in question.
Pixar in a Box
Via Design Taxi
Wow, I've met a couple of people who work there because I live in Oakland, but this type of inside eye into process is cool. Thanks.
ReplyDelete-Rob
Thanks for the review! We are in fact planning lessons on the soft side, stay tuned!
ReplyDeletejames, you have shared a lovely video link about science behind making an animated films. I worked as an animator for several years in the industry.and today offering
ReplyDeletefree online courses in the same domain. Also liked your article on photography & computer graphics..thanks for sharing..