Storyboard
Client: Master Sha
Services: Frame by frame animation
Tools used: Adobe Photoshop, TV Paint, Premiere
I was tasked to create a one-minute animation titled "Shen Qi Jing," which explores the themes of Spirit, Energy, and Essence, central concepts in traditional Chinese philosophy. The project aimed to visually illustrate the interconnectedness of these elements and their significance in achieving balance and harmony in life.
​
Narrative Concept:
"Shen Qi Jing" conveys a journey where the three elements—Shen (Spirit), Qi (Energy), and Jing (Essence)—interact and evolve. The animation serves as a metaphor for how these forces influence one another, ultimately guiding viewers toward understanding the importance of balance in their own lives.
Shen Qi Jing
Design process:
​
1. Project Overview:
During the initial meeting, I received a comprehensive briefing on the project, outlining its overall goals and desired outcomes for the animation.
​
The team provided valuable reference materials, such as style guides, color palettes, and examples of similar animations, which helped me grasp the visual direction and tone they envisioned. Additionally, I was given a script and voiceover that served as a narrative backbone, clarifying the pacing and flow of the story. This foundational understanding set the stage for all subsequent design choices.
​
2. Storyboard Development:
With the project overview in mind, I moved on to developing a storyboard. This step involved sketching out key scenes and illustrating the sequence of actions, character movements, and transitions. Each frame was designed to convey not only the visual elements but also the underlying emotions and story beats.
​
After completing the storyboard, I presented it to the team for feedback. This collaborative review allowed us to discuss the narrative choices behind each scene, ensuring alignment on the visual direction. The insights from the team were invaluable, as they helped identify areas for refinement and clarity.
​
3. Animation Production:
Once the storyboard was approved, I moved into the animation
production phase. This involved bringing the storyboards to life through
frame-by-frame animation.
Throughout this process, I regularly checked in with the team to share progress and incorporate feedback. This iterative approach allowed for adjustments to be made along the way, ensuring that the animation aligned with the project vision.
​​
4. Final Review and Edits
After the animation was completed, I conducted a thorough review of the entire piece. This involved checking for any inconsistencies, timing issues, or areas that could be improved. I gathered final feedback from the team and made necessary edits to ensure that the animation met the project’s objectives and quality standards.
5. Delivery
The final step involved exporting the animation in the required formats and preparing it for delivery. I ensured that all elements were polished and presented according to the client's specifications.