How can you critique camera angles in animation?

Ahhhh, 3d cameras. We've come a long way. Back in the late 1980's, computer-assisted animation was a novelty. Shiny metal. Blocky shapes. Not a lot of convincing movement. But boy howdy, a camera could go anywhere, unrestrained by gravity and common sense. And therein lies the problem. Cameras up until then adhered to physical limitations, compensated for by dollies, helicopters, crane shots. So this new freedom of motion came with a cost: Loss of human connection. . . . Nowadays, there are cool drone shots and insane slo-mo and long oners and impossible shots. But the novelty is generally for effect, and quickly reverts to what humans can, and would, do in real life. That's a good thing for storytelling. And humanity.

Before critiquing camera angles, it's essential to have a solid understanding of fundamental camera techniques and terminology used in animation. This includes concepts such as framing, perspective, composition, and movement.

Critiquing camera angles in animation involves evaluating how well they enhance storytelling, and engage the audience visually. Some of Key factors ahead: 1. Composition: Assess how the elements within the frame are arranged and whether they effectively draw the viewer's focus to the intended subject. 2. Pacing: Evaluate the rhythm and flow of the camera movements in relation to the scene's tone and narrative progression. 3. Perspective: Consider whether the chosen angles provide a clear understanding of spatial relationships and perspective within the animated environment. 4. Emotional Impact: Analyze how the camera angles contribute to conveying characters' emotions, atmosphere, and mood of the scene.

A cut is purposeful. Whenever there is a cut in edit, ask what motivated it? (an off screen sound or movement. An on screen look, etc) Once determined, the purpose of the cut, can reveal whether the new shot helps you (the audience) experience the story in a clear or emotive manner that could not have happened if you had stayed in the previous shot. After the cut, if you feel lost or removed from the story in some fashion, well--- That's a fail.

"What is our camera for?" Our camera is the window for an audience to see what we want them to see. That's a lot of power. Once an audience member takes their money or time (or both) and turns their attention to the content we create, it's important that we provide fair value and avoid taking advantage of the position we've been given. The average audience member accepts what we give them as unbiased, generally not questioning WHY we are choosing to focus them on a particular action or composition. They are seeking an experience that will add to their lives, emotionally or otherwise. That's an awesome responsibility and should not be taken lightly. So it's up to us to make sure we're aware of what we're putting out into the world.

Consider the intended purpose or effect of each camera angle within the context of the scene or sequence. Is the camera angle emphasizing a particular character or object? Does it create a specific mood or atmosphere? Understanding the filmmaker's intention behind each camera angle helps assess its effectiveness.

"Deconstructing camera impact". Our animation is only as good as our cameras. This may sound hyperbolic. Let's take an example. A person throws a ball. Wide shot in profile, 35mm lens - we see the entire action clearly. Close up on the face - we see only the of intensity and expression. Close up on the ball - we don't see the character. Drone shot straight down - we are removed from the action. Worm's eye view - person looks like a giant, overwhelming the action. Camera behind subject, 300mm lens - will feel like a professional baseball game. Camera in front of subject, 16 mm lens - size distortion as the hand fills the screen when it comes towards us. It's easy to take cameras for granted. So make sure you're playing to them.

Assess how well each camera angle contributes to the overall narrative, visual interest, and viewer engagement. Does the chosen angle enhance the storytelling by providing unique perspectives or insights? Does it effectively convey emotions or highlight key moments in the animation?

Compare different camera angles used within the same scene or sequence to identify strengths and weaknesses. Evaluate how each angle contributes to the scene's coherence, pacing, and visual flow. Contrasting angles can help determine which ones are most effective in achieving the desired cinematic impact.

Encourage experimentation with different camera angles to explore alternative ways of framing scenes and conveying meaning. Provide feedback on how subtle adjustments to camera placement, angle, or movement can enhance visual storytelling and audience immersion. Encourage animators to continuously refine their camera work to improve overall animation quality.