How do you keep track of and organize your cels, layers, and frames in cel animation?

1 Label your cels

Each cel represents a single frame or a part of a frame in your animation. To avoid confusion and mistakes, you should label your cels with numbers, letters, or symbols that indicate their order, position, and timing. For example, you can use a system like A1, A2, A3 for the first layer, B1, B2, B3 for the second layer, and so on. You can also add markers for key frames, in-betweens, holds, and exposures. Labeling your cels will help you assemble them correctly and match them with the soundtrack.

2 Store your cels

Cels are delicate and prone to damage, so you need to store them properly. You should keep them flat, dry, and away from heat, light, and dust. You can use folders, envelopes, or boxes to store your cels, but make sure they are acid-free and archival-quality. You should also separate your cels with sheets of paper or plastic to prevent them from sticking together or scratching each other. Storing your cels will help you preserve them and prevent loss or deterioration.

3 Organize your layers

Layers are the different levels of cels that make up a frame. For example, you may have a layer for the background, a layer for the character, and a layer for the effects. To organize your layers, you should use peg bars or registration holes to align them precisely and securely. You should also use a light table or a backlight to see through the layers and check for errors or gaps. Organizing your layers will help you create a smooth and consistent animation.

4 Record your frames

Frames are the individual images that create the illusion of movement in your animation. To record your frames, you need to use a camera, a tripod, and a frame counter. You should set up your camera so that it captures the entire area of your cels and background, and adjust the focus, aperture, and exposure accordingly. You should also use a frame counter to keep track of the number of frames you shoot and the speed of your animation. Recording your frames will help you produce a final product that matches your vision.

5 Review your work

After you finish recording your frames, you should review your work and see if it meets your expectations. You can use a film projector, a video player, or a computer to play back your animation and watch for any mistakes, glitches, or improvements. You should also compare your work with your storyboard, script, and sound to see if they match and complement each other. Reviewing your work will help you evaluate your skills and learn from your experience.

6 Share your work

Finally, you should share your work with others and get feedback, appreciation, or criticism. You can use online platforms, social media, or festivals to showcase your cel animation and reach a wider audience. You can also join communities, forums, or groups of fellow animators and enthusiasts to exchange ideas, tips, and resources. Sharing your work will help you grow as an animator and discover new possibilities and opportunities.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?