AI Termcirca 1960· Added Jun 3, 2026
Keyframe Animation
Keyframe animation is the process of defining start and end points for any transition, with the computer generating the in-between frames.
Keyframe animation is a foundational technique in the field of animation and video production. It involves setting specific frames, called keyframes, that determine the starting and ending points of any movement or transformation within a video. The software then interpolates the frames between these keyframes, creating a smooth transition. This method allows animators to precisely control motion and timing without manually drawing each frame, making it essential for both 2D and 3D animations.
Examples
- In Adobe After Effects, animators set keyframes to make text move across the screen.
- Blender uses keyframes to animate character movements in 3D scenes.
- Apple Motion allows users to create complex animations by adjusting keyframes for object transformations.
Common misconceptions
- Keyframe animation is not only for 3D; it's also used extensively in 2D animation.
- It doesn't require manual frame-by-frame drawing; interpolation handles in-betweens.
- Keyframes don't animate objects by themselves; they define positions or states.
Also known as: keyframing
Related terms
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