Animaatiot

Animaatiot are the Finnish term for animation, the technique of creating the illusion of movement by displaying a sequence of images or frames. They are used in film, television, video games, advertising, and digital interfaces. Animaatiot can be created with traditional hand-drawn methods, computer-generated imagery, or a combination (hybrid).

Common forms include 2D animation (vector or bitmap), 3D computer animation, stop-motion using physical models, and motion graphics for graphic design. Techniques include frame-by-frame animation, rigging and keyframing in 3D, motion capture, cutout, and morphing.

Production typically follows stages: concept development and script, storyboarding and animatics, layout and modeling, texturing and lighting, animation, simulation for cloth/particles, rendering, and compositing and final sound design.

In the Finnish context, animaatiot are produced by both studios and independent artists and distributed through cinema, television, streaming services, and online platforms. They serve entertainment, education, and advertising. The field relies on collaboration across artists, writers, engineers, and composers, with access to training and institutions offering animation programs.

Software and tools commonly used include 2D tools like Toon Boom Harmony and TVPaint; 3D tools like Autodesk Maya and Blender; stop-motion workflows such as Dragonframe. Open formats and standards facilitate sharing and streaming of animated content.