Abstract
Rotoscoping is an animation technique that involves tracing over live-action footage frame by frame, dating back to the early days of animation. This paper explores its historical applications in animation and its growing presence in contemporary motion design. Through my own experimentation, I compare various methods of execution across multiple projects, including AI-generated techniques, Procreate, and analog approaches. Additionally, I discuss the benefits of rotoscoping in motion design and its potential as a teaching tool in introductory motion design courses. As rotoscoping gains popularity in the industry, it also serves as an accessible entry point for students learning 2D animation principles in motion design.
Presenters
Kacey MorrowProfessor, Department of Design, Western Washington University, Washington, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Thinking, Learning, Doing: Plural Ways of Design
KEYWORDS
Motion, Rotoscope, Frame-by-Frame, Animation
