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Pearl
Student
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Questions
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Is Rotoscoping animation cheating?
It's hard for me to come up with animation poses and finding the right photos for reference take a while. Does using Rotoscoping techniques count as cheating? Also, what if the build of the character I want to animate isn't like my build, how can I reference with different bodies? It would seem weird to go up to a friend and be like "hey can you do this move?"
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2 answers
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
931
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Rotoscoping, in itself, is not "cheating"—it is a legitimate animation technique that has been used for decades, from the early works of Disney to modern-day animation. It involves tracing over live-action footage frame by frame to create realistic movements. While it can be a useful tool for animators, especially when accuracy in movement is required, it's important to remember that rotoscoping should complement rather than replace the creative process. It’s an effective method for reference, but the key to strong animation lies in your ability to add your own artistic interpretation, fluidity, and unique style on top of the references. If you’re struggling to find poses or reference material, you can expand your search to include online resources like pose libraries, stock photography websites, or even motion capture tools and apps designed specifically for animators. If the character you're animating doesn't have the same body type as you, there are several options. You can use reference photos of people with different body types from various sources or adjust your own poses to reflect the character's unique build. If it feels awkward to ask a friend to perform specific actions, you might consider using mirrors, self-timer cameras, or even virtual tools like 3D modeling programs to simulate the poses you need. Ultimately, animation is about conveying character and emotion, and while rotoscoping is a helpful technique, it’s crucial to remain engaged in the creative process and not rely solely on tracing—let your imagination and artistic skill drive the final result.
Devin Rice
Filmmaker
7
Answers
Saint Petersburg, Florida
Updated
Devin’s Answer
Hi Pearl,
Good question! Rotoscoping is definitely not cheating (unless your teacher gives you a specific assignment asking you not to use the technique).
As Patrick mentioned, rotoscoping has been used in the film industry since the early 20th century and is still used today. As long as you're not stealing someone else's work, use the technique that best facilitates your creative vision!
In my animation classes, I encourage students to take an acting class (as odd as that might sound), to help them break out of their self-conscious shells. You can also make friends with actors who are not afraid or embarrassed to make goofy faces or walk around like a monkey, giraffe or slimy monster. Even better to be brave and do it yourself!
For referencing characters with different body types, you can also use the character building features in software like Moho (2-D) and Poser (3-D), which allow you to adjust body shape and size parameters.
Best of luck on your animation adventure!
Good question! Rotoscoping is definitely not cheating (unless your teacher gives you a specific assignment asking you not to use the technique).
As Patrick mentioned, rotoscoping has been used in the film industry since the early 20th century and is still used today. As long as you're not stealing someone else's work, use the technique that best facilitates your creative vision!
In my animation classes, I encourage students to take an acting class (as odd as that might sound), to help them break out of their self-conscious shells. You can also make friends with actors who are not afraid or embarrassed to make goofy faces or walk around like a monkey, giraffe or slimy monster. Even better to be brave and do it yourself!
For referencing characters with different body types, you can also use the character building features in software like Moho (2-D) and Poser (3-D), which allow you to adjust body shape and size parameters.
Best of luck on your animation adventure!