Stop Motion Animation – Everything You Need to Know

Stop motion animation is a timeless, hands-on art form that brings physical objects to life one frame at a time. If you’ve ever wondered what is stop motion animation, it’s a technique where inanimate items are moved in small increments and photographed frame by frame to create fluid movement. Often described as a flipbook brought to life, this animation method blends creativity and craftsmanship to deliver a uniquely human visual experience. Whether you’re exploring claymation stop motion animation, object-based storytelling, or experimental formats, understanding the techniques of stop motion animation is key to mastering the craft. In this article, we’ve had stop motion animation explained from both a traditional and digital perspective, including how we at Hatch Studios simulate the stop motion pictures look using 3D animation. Learn how to make stop motion animation videos, the different styles, and why brands looking to stand out should consider this tactile, engaging approach. From the basics of what is stop motion to the full stop motion animation definition, we’ve got you covered on what is stop motion in animation and why it still matters today.

What is Stop Motion Animation?

Let’s start with the basics: what is stop motion animation? Simply put, it’s an animation technique where physical objects are moved in small increments between individually photographed frames. When these images are played back in sequence, it creates the illusion of movement.

Think of it like a flipbook brought to life with real-world objects. You take a photo, move the object a little, take another photo, move it again, and so on. Stitch those photos together and you have animation.

The stop motion animation definition can be summed up as: a frame-by-frame technique used to create motion from static objects through a series of still images. Sounds simple, but the magic is in the details.

Techniques of Stop Motion Animation

There isn’t just one way to do stop motion. In fact, there are several techniques of stop motion animation, each with its own look and feel:

1. Claymation – Think of the iconic characters from Aardman Animations. Claymation stop motion animation uses malleable clay figures that are reshaped slightly between shots.
2. Puppet Animation – Uses puppets with articulated joints. These are great for more detailed storytelling and character interaction.
3. Cut-Out Animation – Uses flat characters and backgrounds, usually made of paper or fabric. Think South Park (in its earliest episodes).
4. Object Animation – Everyday objects, like Lego or action figures, are moved around. This technique is often seen in YouTube videos.
5. Pixilation – Uses live actors photographed frame by frame. It creates a surreal, jerky motion and is often used for artistic or experimental videos.
6. Silhouette Animation – Uses backlit cut-out shapes to create a shadow effect. This style has a timeless, fairy-tale quality to it.

Each type has its own vibe, and your choice will depend on the story you’re telling and the tone you want to convey.

Why Use Stop Motion Animations?

Here’s the thing: stop motion animations are wildly effective when done right. They draw the viewer in. There’s something hypnotic about watching inanimate objects come to life through painstaking effort. It feels organic and it’s a less digital approach which makes it especially ideal for some types of products and services.

But why would a business use stop motion?

• Attention-Grabbing: In a sea of polished digital content, stop motion stands out. It looks different, it feels different.
• Tactile Appeal: It has a physical, touchable quality. This makes it great for showcasing real products.
• Shareable Factor: Stop motion videos often go viral because of their novelty and charm.
• Versatility: Whether you’re marketing food, fashion, tech gadgets, or services, stop motion can be adapted to fit.

At Hatch Studios, we’ve worked with clients who wanted something different. In several cases, we’ve recommended and developed stop motion pieces that added a handmade, bespoke feel to their brand content.

How to Make Stop Motion Animation Videos

So you’re interested in trying this out? Here’s a basic breakdown of how to make stop motion animation videos:

1. Concept and Storyboard – Just like any other animation, you need a plan. Sketch out the scenes, the movements, and the message.
2. Set Design and Characters – Build your set and characters using clay, paper, fabric, toys or whatever fits your theme.
3. Lighting – Consistent lighting is crucial. Even a small change can create a jarring flicker in the final animation.
4. Camera Setup – Use a tripod and a remote shutter to keep shots steady.
5. Shoot Frame by Frame – Take a photo. Move your object slightly. Repeat. For smoother motion, aim for 12 to 24 frames per second.
6. Editing – Use software like Dragonframe, Stop Motion Studio, After Effects or Premiere to compile your images and add sound.
7. Polish and Post – Add voiceover, music, sound effects, or motion graphics to finish things off.

Yes, it takes time. But the results can be incredibly rewarding.

Stop Motion in the Digital Age

In the age of CGI, you might be wondering if stop motion is a bit of a dinosaur. On the contrary, it’s experiencing a renaissance. Many modern ads, social media clips, and explainer videos are turning to stop motion pictures for their unique aesthetic.

And they are using digital tools to expediate the process. For example, check out our project for Nestle’s KitKat below. We used 3D animation to simulate a stop-motion aesthetic, complete with fingerprints and irregular molding to produce the tactile effect.

Social media, in particular, loves stop motion. Instagram Reels and TikTok videos using this style tend to get high engagement. People are fascinated by the effort and artistry involved.

Challenges and Considerations

Of course, stop motion isn’t for everyone. It can be labor-intensive and time-consuming. You need patience, precision, and a great eye for detail. It’s not always cost-effective for last-minute campaigns.

But with the right planning and creative direction, it can be a show-stopper.

Hatch Studios and the Magic of Animation

For over 20 years, Hatch Studios has been pushing boundaries in animation – from both a technical and creative standpoint. While we’re known for 2D and 3D animated productions, as well as impressive motion graphics, we’ve never turned a blind eye to traditional and tactile styles. We love collaborating with clients who are open to experimenting with styles like stop motion animations. As a matter of fact, we have a diverse number of styles we work in.

We believe that every brand has a story worth telling and sometimes the best way to tell that story is frame by frame, with a little bit of motion magic.

Whether you’re exploring claymation stop motion animation, object-based storytelling, or just curious about what is stop motion in animation, we can help you figure out if this style fits your message and brand.

Final Thoughts

Stop motion animation is equal parts art and craft. It’s nostalgic yet modern, simple yet complex. It can add warmth, charm, and a sense of wonder to your next campaign.

Now that you’ve had stop motion animation explained, maybe you’re inspired to try it out yourself. Or maybe you’re ready to bring in the pros. Either way, there’s no denying its impact when done right.

So next time you’re thinking of creating a brand video, ask yourself: do I want something expected, or something that moves people in every sense of the word?

If it’s the latter, maybe stop motion is exactly what you need.

Want to create a stop motion animation that stops the scroll? Reach out to Hatch Studios and let’s bring your vision to life, frame by frame.