In Week 4, we started learning about Facial Animation, focusing on facial poses and how to make expressions look organic. Facial Anim – Pose We learned that an appealing face should avoid perfect symmetry, because symmetry can make the character look robotic. Instead, we should use asymmetry, clear shapes, and good connectivity between facial features to make the face feel alive. Facial Anim – Pose We also studied how muscles work together, especially the eyebrows and eyelids, and how small changes in shape can affect emotion and energy level. Facial Anim – Pose Another important point was maintaining volume in the face, so expressions do not look flat or collapsing. Facial Anim – Pose
For the assignment, we had to reproduce five facial poses using a model sheet and attach references. Facial Anim – Pose We needed to apply what we learned in class, including asymmetry, shape design, and clear emotional intention. Camera angle also mattered in presenting the pose. This exercise helped me understand that facial animation is not just moving sliders, but carefully designing expressions with structure and intention.
In Week 4, we continued practicing animation, focusing on facial expression exercises. We used animation references and recreated different facial poses to understand how expressions work in motion. This practice helped me see the importance of timing, clarity, and emotional intention. Instead of only copying the reference, I tried to understand why the expression works and how small changes in asymmetry or shape can make it feel more natural.
At the same time, we started the basic blocking for the “Heavy Object & Change of Mind” assignment. In this stage, we focused on clear storytelling and strong poses rather than details. The goal was to show the action of pushing or lifting a heavy object and clearly present the change of intention. Blocking helped me think more carefully about key poses, timing, and silhouette before moving into more complex animation. Overall, this week helped me connect facial performance and body mechanics with stronger planning.