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Directing an animated character in a live-action setting begins in pre-production. During storyboarding, timing and framing are carefully planned to ensure live-action shots accommodate the animated character’s performance, which is created later in post-production.
An animatic confirms shot lengths and refines the narrative, crucial because animated performances must be pre-planned, unlike live-action where spontaneous moments can be captured. Interactions between the character and the real environment are decided at this stage to plan the practical motion of inanimate objects.
On set, a 5-inch model of the character helps with framing to determine placement and interaction with the live-action environment. The director visualises the character’s performance, guiding the camera to ensure final shots are believable when animation is added. This process demands the director have a clear vision and a deep understanding of both live-action and animation to seamlessly bring the story to life.