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Animation basics: The optical illusion of motion - TED-Ed

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7,878 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

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How do animators make still images come to life? Are the images really moving, or are they merely an optical illusion? TED-Ed takes you behind the scenes to reveal the secret of motion in movies.

Watch Think 5 Multiple Choice &
1 Open Answer Questions Dig Deeper Learn More Discuss 1 Guided Discussion &
1 Open Discussion

What effect is the basis for all motion picture technology?

a

When still images change fast enough, they produce the optical illusion: a persistent image that is gradually changing form and position

b

Lights have to feed the sensors in a camera that will capture any action that takes place (hence, "Lights, camera, action!")

c

Storyboards must be constructed before the first motion picture is captured; this ensures that each still is properly accounted for so that the end product is ordered and logical

d

Repetition creates movement

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