Workflow for 3D Animation Project and Key Approval Stages

1. Script

• Description:
• For each episode, we develop a core story, which serves as the foundation for the script.
• The main task is to adapt the story to the script in a way that limits the number of locations to 4-8, optimizing the production process.
• Why it's important:
• A well-thought-out script helps avoid unnecessary scenes and complexity in production.
• Limiting the number of locations reduces costs for modeling and animation.

2. Reference Gathering

• Description:
• In this stage, we gather references for the main character: appearance, costumes, palace architecture, interiors, and infographic elements (maps and charts).
• Why it's important:
• References help ensure that the animation is visually consistent and stylistically appropriate, reducing the need for revisions in later stages.

3. Storyboarding and Gathering References for Each Frame

• Description:
• A storyboard is created—a visual representation of the key frames of each scene.
• We gather references for each frame to get a clear idea of the composition.
• Why it's important:
• This is a crucial step for visualizing the future animation and aligning on the overall style before detailed work begins.
• Storyboarding saves time and resources during animation by addressing potential issues early on.

4. Character Creation

• Description:
• Based on the script and references, 3D models of the main and secondary characters are created.
• Why it's important:
• Approving the characters at this stage is critical for further work, as their appearance and proportions influence animation and interaction with the environment. The fewer unique characters in animation, the lower the price for execution

5. Location Design

• Description:
• The development of 3D models for locations (palaces, streets, rooms, etc.), where the main events will take place.
• Why it's important:
• Location design defines the atmosphere of the animation and must align with the era and style. Approval is essential to avoid reworking objects later on.

6. Animatic

• Description:
• A rough version of the animation is created, with approximate movements and scene layout, to assess timing and the overall pace.
• Why it's important:
• An animatic helps visualize the scenes and check their sequence and timing before final animation begins, allowing for adjustments to the pacing early on.

7. Character Animation

• Description:
• At this stage, the final movements of the characters are created, including facial expressions, gestures, and interactions with the environment.
• Why it's important:
• Final animation is the core stage where characters come to life. Approval ensures that significant changes are avoided in later stages.

8. Rough Render

• Description:
• A rough render of all scenes without final graphics is created to evaluate the visual style and overall look.
• Why it's important:
• This is the stage where the client can see the overall visual concept and suggest changes before the final version is rendered. Previsualization helps assess how all elements work together.

9. Lighting

• Description:
• Lighting is added to each frame to create atmosphere and depth.
• Why it's important:
• Lighting plays a key role in setting the mood. Approval at this stage ensures that the desired ambiance is achieved and avoids rework after the final render.

10. Compositing and Effects

• Description:
• In this stage, the final processing of scenes occurs: compositing, adding special effects, infographics (e.g., maps), and post-processing.
• Why it's important:
• Compositing brings all elements (characters, locations, effects) together into a cohesive picture. Final visualization shows the completed project, making approval crucial to avoid repeating the work.

11. Sound and Music

• Description:
• Music, sound effects, and voiceover are added.
• Why it's important:
• Audio elements complete the project and give it depth. Approval is essential for the final perception of the animation.

Approval and Sign-Off Stages

Each stage requires client approval before moving on to the next. Once approved, changes are only possible for an additional fee. This approach helps maintain project timelines and budget. The further into the process, the more expensive revisions become, so thorough approval at each stage is key.