Introduction to Animate CC

• Animate CC is a widely popular animation tool.
• Despite challenges from Steve Jobs and minimal updates from Adobe, it remains a top choice.
• Originally designed for creating websites.

Class Overview

• Objective: Learn to create and share animations.
• Introduction followed by tools to simplify and enhance Animate CC usage.
• Keyboard shortcuts provided in the description.

Getting Started

• Create New Project: Set resolution (e.g., 1920 x 1080) and frame rate (e.g., 12 fps for 2D animation).
• Canvas and Timeline: The canvas (stage) with timeline at the bottom.

Basic Tools and Techniques

• Brush Tool (B): For drawing with pressure sensitivity (useful for tablets).
• Key Frames: Create new key frames with F7.
• Onion Skinning: Helps to see previous and future frames.
• Selection and Movement: Use 'V' for selection, arrow keys for precision.
• Zoom and Pan: Use 'Z' to zoom in, ALT+Z to zoom out, space bar for hand tool.

Animation Looping

• Adjust the onion skin slider for looping visibility.
• Use the play button or press enter for playback.
• Set loop range for complete looping.

Adding Color

• Paint Bucket Tool (K): Fill line work with color.
• Handle gaps in drawing by closing gaps or using the brush tool.

Layers and Additional Elements

• New Layers: Add elements like leaves or stems on separate layers.
• Use F5 to extend key frames, shift+F5 to delete them.

Exporting Animation

• Export Options: SWF (Flash file, vector) vs. Video (H.264, easier sharing).
• Use Media Encoder for video export.

Symbols and Advanced Techniques

• Symbols: Convert elements to symbols for repeated use without redrawing.
• Modify symbols for global changes (e.g., facial expressions).
• Edit Multiple Frames: For concurrent changes across frames.

Enhancing Animation

• Motion Tween: Automates movement between frames.
• Adjust speed and path by extending timelines and curve paths.

Cleanup and Vector Lines

• Use line tool for cleaner, controlled vector lines.
• Double click to select multiple lines for color adjustments.

Final Touches

• Motion Tween for Elements: Apply to elements like the sun for dynamic movement.
• Use multiple layers for detailed animations.

Conclusion

• Recap of tools and techniques for creating animations.
• Encouragement to review material and explore further resources.