A simple animation editor. Animation Basics: How to Draw Movement and Action
There are many computer animation programs different levels complexity. Perhaps the simplest of them is the Crazy Talk program. True, it is not intended for serious work on a cartoon. Rather, it is a fun “toy” that allows you to create “animations” based on your own photographs, drawings, or pictures of people and animals found on the Internet. In addition, the resulting “animations” can be voiced.
2D animation programs
The CrazyTalk Animator program offers much more possibilities. With its help you can create full-fledged . It contains many ready-made character templates and “scripts” for movement, facial expressions, and scenery. You can create cartoons without using templates, but using your own drawings, photographs or any images as a basis. Working with CrazyTalk Animator can be the first step towards mastering professional computer animation programs.The fully professional Anime Studio Pro program is good because it combines the broadest capabilities with a fairly simple and user-friendly interface that even a novice animator can master.
Toon Boom Studio is also considered one of the best programs for creating 2D cartoons. It is quite possible to master it for those who want to seriously engage in the creation of professional computer animation.
3D animation programs
When starting to create 3D animation, you can start by mastering the Reallusion iClone PRO or Smith Micro Poser Pro programs. They contain ready-made 3D model templates, working with which allows you to quickly understand the algorithms for creating 3D animation. More advanced 3D animation programs are Autodesk Maya and Autodesk 3D Studio Max. Although this is already the area of professional cinema and television. They allow you to create complex animated characters and visual effects.Computer animation is a fascinating activity that contributes to the diversified development of human creativity. Anyone who wants to master this complex but interesting business will be able to find a program of a suitable level for themselves, and then improve in their hobby (and possibly profession), mastering higher levels of skill. And maybe a funny “animation” made in Crazy Talk will eventually turn into a full-fledged three-dimensional character made in Autodesk Maya.
Sources:
- Program for creating cartoons
3D Max is a 3D graphics application that uses most of your computer's resources. This exactingness is associated with the peculiarity of constructing three-dimensional images in modern systems and the difficulties of calculating graphic models. To work comfortably in the program, you need to choose the most productive laptop or computer.
Official system requirements
To successfully install and run 3D Max 2014, you must have Windows 7 or Windows 8 as the main system on your computer. The processor must have a 64-bit architecture, and the power of the core affects the speed of rendering and image construction. 4 GB of RAM is the minimum requirement, but the developer recommends 8 GB of RAM for more or less comfortable work. 4.5 GB of hard disk must be available for installation. It is also advisable to update the browser installed on the system to the latest version.
Selection of laptop
The choice of laptop should be made in accordance with three key characteristics that are critical for running the program. First of all, you need to pay attention to the video card and its power - the more powerful it is graphics system, the more smoothly the images will be constructed and the more graphic objects can be displayed. Graphics performance affects the comfort level when working with the program. It is advisable that the laptop's graphic video memory be at least 1 GB. To run 3D Max, you will need a discrete video card from Nvidia or Radeon of the latest possible models.
Second important characteristic to run 3D Max is a central processor, the number of cores in which must be at least 4 to work with rendering. It is advisable to use the latest processors from Intel (Core i7) and AMD (FX-9590 and higher). The higher the clock speed and the more cores in the stone, the better it will cope with processing computational operations and building complex graphical objects.
The third important characteristic is the amount of RAM, the amount of which determines the size of the loaded scene. The larger the object, the more data is required to be stored in RAM. It is advisable that the amount of RAM should not be less than 8 GB, however, when building complex objects, a laptop with 16 GB may be required.
Price
It is worth noting that the cost of a laptop that can function in 3D Max will be at least 40,000 rubles. Only the most expensive models are able to provide optimal performance in the program. If you use 3D Max in educational purposes or at the amateur level, you can purchase a laptop that matches minimum requirements manufacturer. In this case, the final cost of the device will be approximately 25,000 rubles.
Tip 3: Which program to choose for making a 2D cartoon
Creating 2D cartoons on a computer can become exciting hobby, which can even generate income: the created projects can be posted on paid resources online, or you can start working as an animator in some company. But first you need to choose the right program.
First, try creating cartoons on your computer, without using special and complex programs. Use the usual digital camera. Make it using any available means: a sheet of paper and pencils or paints, plasticine or clay, dolls, etc. Simply shoot the required number of frames using the camera, installing and changing the drawn objects as needed by the script. Start assembling the 2D cartoon after all the necessary photographs have been taken. Use any video editing program: Movie Maker, Sony Vegas, Adobe Premiere, etc. Insert the captured scenes one by one into a special window by selecting the frame rate in the settings. To make the result look like an ordinary tape, and not just a sequence of photos, set the frame rate to 10 frames per second or higher. Glue together separately edited scenes, add music and titles to complete the project. Use the interactive disc “Multi-remote” if you are a beginner animator or want to introduce your child to creativity. Available from digital retailers, this easy-to-learn program has unlimited capabilities for . It allows you to insert different objects into the frame and make them move in different ways. You can choose suitable fairy-tale heroes, for example, Mowgli, Babu Yaga and the three-headed one. Characters are configured to perform dozens of different actions, each of which also has its own parameters. Choose a professional program for creating animated films and videos Adobe Flash, if you are well versed in this area. Cartoons in swf format take up much less disk space than a video file of the same quality. Thanks to this, they download faster, which has made them very popular on the Internet. The Adobe Flash application allows you to use various tools: pencil, pen, brush, circle, lines and many others. You can place background images in frames by placing them in the foreground or background, insert sound, use additional layers, and much more.
The virtual world is increasingly becoming three-dimensional. Every software company that respects itself and the user strives to make its products in 3-D. The popularity of this visual display medium is so great that many people want to master the intricacies of 3D design on their own. And there are special programs for this.
A lot of programs have been created for 3D modeling. Some are for complete beginners in this field, others are more suitable for professional designers. The user can easily get confused in all the variety of proposals, so only the three most popular 3D construction products are offered to the reader, which anyone can understand if they wish.
3D Studio MAX
The program is currently called Autodesk 3ds Max. The project started back in 1990, when the most daring experimenters were just beginning to think about 3D modeling.
Often, special software is created for game or film projects, focused on solving specific problems.
The package was developed by the Yost Group studio and the first four versions were released for DOS. For those who don't remember the "pre-window" times, this is an operating system with command line– the grandmother of modern operating systems. Since 1994, the package began to be released for Windows.
Using the package, you can create videos, engage in architectural modeling, and bring computer game characters to life. For example, many of Blizzard's video games for Warcraft and Starcraft used 3D-Max capabilities. The product was also used to create models in these games.
Autodesk Maya
If anyone ever thinks about what product in 3D modeling can be considered the de facto standard, then it is Maya. At one time she made her mark in the world of three-dimensional graphics in film and television. The product had quite complicated story. It officially appeared only in 2006, but before that there were various corporate mergers and reshuffles in the business segment, which in one way or another affected the project.
However, it has survived and is now actively used by many professionals and enthusiasts around the world. The list of famous cartoons and those created with its help alone deserves respect:
The image of Gollum in The Lord of the Rings
- mouse from the comedy “Stuart Little”
- “South Park”.
- The Matrix trilogy
- spider man 2
- gold
And this is just the beginning, because it’s simply not possible to cover everything.
Cinema 4D
Judging by the name, the program is capable of creating four-dimensional space. However, as you know, the fourth is time. Hence the essence of the software package is to create three-dimensional objects that change over time. And here many can already guess that we are talking about computer animation.
At the beginning, all 3D modeling programs seem complicated, but once you understand the basic principles, everything becomes easier.
And in fact, today the project represents serious competition to the two products described above. It is more convenient, has a simpler interface, and is easier to learn even for a beginner.
It first appeared on the Amiga computer in the early nineties of the last century. The first versions of the software were only for this machine. Maxon was then able to port it to other platforms.
It is impossible to list all the projects where the program was used. It is actively used to create animation. And among the most famous projects is Beowulf.
Video on the topic
Sources:
- Interesting programs for beginners in 2019
There are a lot of funny ideas in your head, your soul requires a holiday, and your creative potential needs an outlet in non-standard works? Create - because everyone can do it. And learn to do cartoons not difficult at all.
Instructions
The most necessary skill is the ability to draw. If your artistic skills are not up to par, fix it quickly. The best thing is to sign up for courses. By the way, not only art courses, but also graphic design courses are suitable. There may even be a place in your city that teaches animation. You can learn the basics of using a brush on your own, but this requires patience and ability. If you are not corrected in time on some basic points (wrong lines, strokes, manner of holding a pencil), it will be difficult to relearn in the future.
Learn to write scripts. Ideas in your head without a clear plan are very difficult to bring to life. Read it for screenwriters (you will find many useful ones here: http://www.screenwriter.ru/info/) - this way you will learn to clearly and correctly write scenes and frames. Start creating characters. Not just faceless creatures, but individuals, characters. Try for everyone to come up with their own flavor, an original feature, a sign. Pay attention to the characters in famous cartoons.
Learn programs for creating animation. The most popular programs used to create: MacroFlash Player, 3Dmax, Macromedia Flash. Please note that over time you will also need programs for working with sound if you want to do things with “talking” characters. You can invite your friends to voice them, so you don’t need ventriloquism skills.
Learn constantly. Perhaps in the field you can never say for sure that you have learned everything. Explore various works, look at the creations of the same ones, implement original ideas and ideas. Communicate with other animators, for example, on this forum http://2danimator.ru/. Don't be afraid to expose your works to the public and listen to criticism. Who knows, maybe you will be the one to compete with Tim Burton in many years?
Creating animation in graphics programs is a rather complicated and obscure process for beginners. However, almost anyone can add video effects for text, any inscription - in a word, make a flash.
You will need
- A computer with Adobe Photoshop installed, basic skills in working with the program, an image for the background, text.
Instructions
Open the required file or create a new one - the one that will be the background for your animated inscription. Make a duplicate of it - this is what you will work with, and make the original layer invisible. To create a duplicate, you need to right-click on the desired layer in the “Layers” window and select the “Create a duplicate layer” command.
Write the required text and format it. Determine the font, size. For example, you can try different options, selecting the appropriate ones in the “Styles” window (in the same place as “Swatches”).
Rasterize the text so you can work with it further. It will no longer be possible to change the letters themselves, the font and other characteristics of the text after this operation. You can create duplicate layers and merge them temporarily to be on the safe side. But this option will require a lot of disk space and may confuse an inexperienced user. Therefore, it is better to decide right away. To rasterize, you need to right-click on the desired layer in the “Layers” window and select the “Rasterize” operation.
Aurora 3D Animation Maker is an application for creating full-fledged 3D animations that can enliven and add zest to any modern WEB site, presentation or any other interactive project. In the program you can create banners, text with interesting effects, various logos and buttons. For beginners, this will be interesting in terms of converting text into fascinating 3D animation and further posting it on the site.
But the capabilities of Aurora 3D Animation Maker don’t end there! Perhaps you need to create a creative logo? This program allows you to create stunning three-dimensional objects, giving text or logo a presentation style. The app also offers the wonders of animation to further bring your Web-centric creations to life. For example, play with the properties of particles to create fireworks, falling snow, raging flames or a mesmerizing void.
Or use spinning or falling elements, such as jumping and swirls. Once you have your final result, Aurora 3D Animation Maker makes it easy to incorporate your animation into your site, providing comprehensive options for outputting the result as Flash or animated GIF.
In addition, you have access to the functions of undo and redo, lock, resize (for example, you can adjust the width, height, resolution, aspect ratio), select a different background (for example, use a gradient, image, video), and also switch to another GUI language (Russian language available).
Aurora 3D Animation Maker's animation-related tools include a help file to make it easier for beginners.
Conclusions: in testing mode, the program did not glitch or crash, showed insignificant consumption of system resources, demonstrated good time response when pressing buttons. The output animations had good and competitive quality graphics. Overall, this program for creating animations and 3D effects for websites should please advanced users, providing flexible and functional settings.
Today you can find large number programs for creating cartoons and animation. Each of them has both advantages and disadvantages. With their help, you can make simple animations (for example, banners and animated avatars) and complex (even professional) cartoons. Let's try to understand this variety of tools to find the answer to the question: “How to make a cartoon?” Which program is better to choose in order to get quick and high-quality results for a beginning animator?
Programs for GIF animations
The operating principle of almost all programs for creating simple animations and banners is to arrange several frames that smoothly flow into one another. This transition can be generated automatically. You can usually use images in JPG, PNG, BMP, etc. formats as source images for frames. The available automation functions will do the bulk of the work for you. As a result you will get beautiful animations without the use of professional skills.
An example of such programs is Animated GIF Producer. With its help, you can easily convert video files or pictures into GIF animation, change the finished anime, insert transition effects, change the size and order of frames, save GIF animation in AVI format.
How to make a cartoon
Let's look at the solution to this problem using the example of a freely distributed program for creating cartoons "Multi-Pulti Studio" - a construction kit available to any child over 6 years old, containing a library of fairy-tale characters, scenes and decorations, wonderful music, funny sounds and bright colors. A cartoon in this program, after the plot has arisen, is created in 8 steps:
1. Select a scene from several available in the library.
2. Decorations are placed on the stage, which are also selected from the library.
3. The current fairy-tale characters are identified.
4. Then their actions are specified (they are different for each hero).
5. Fragments of episodes are played out, which are recorded frame by frame.
6. After compiling a number of episodes, music and sounds are set (also from the library).
7. The characters are voiced, this can be done through a microphone.
8. If desired, you can make captions.
The cartoon is ready! As you can see, everything is simple, visual, fun and effective. All actions of the animator are performed using well-arranged tools on the designer’s working panel. To learn how to use the program there is a demo video and detailed description actions.
Free animation projects
JascAnimationShop is the simplest program that allows you to understand the question of how to make a cartoon on a computer. Available to explain the principles of animation creation and the features of animation work even to a child. Great for combining scanned drawings into a single cartoon.
Blender is an application that has a large set of tools and allows you to create dynamic objects in interaction with each other.
CartoonMaker is a Russian-language program for creating cartoons and comics, also suitable for children from 6 years old. Easy to use, supports correction of image formats JPEG, BMP, WMF, EMF, GIF, etc. It has a library of backgrounds, favorite characters, funny animations, decorations and objects, sound effects with the ability to voice characters in your own voice. With its help, we create cartoons on the computer in a matter of minutes in a few simple steps.
Antechinus Animator Professional allows you to easily and clearly generate and modify animation and video files, photos and sound data. Supports more than 40 formats. Capable of converting and making multiple changes to groups of files in one motion, extracting images and sounds from video, or combining video and audio data. Supports filter processing and adding effects. Compresses the amount of data, including photos, speeding up their loading on the network. Allows you to create perfect animated buttons, decorated with shadows, blur, and other effects. Easily enters images from the screen and modifies them.
Aurora 3D Animation Maker can become an indispensable assistant in creating 3D animation in web design or video processing. Easily adds animation effects (fireworks, snow or flames) or a logo to video files on a website, controlling all parameters (duration, animation playback speed, etc.), supports many formats (AVI, FLV, MPG, Flash (SWF) , animated GIF, PNG, TGA, BMP).
Pencil is a program for drawing cartoons, quite suitable for creating high-quality cartoons. Having external simplicity, it has the ability to create both raster and vector frames, which is not typical for all applications of a similar purpose. This is ideal when finishing sketches with finishing strokes.
Paid animation projects
Adobe (Macromedia) Flash is a program for creating cartoons and Internet applications. Very popular among cartoonists. It has a clear interface and a wide range of tools. It continues to actively develop.
Anime studio pro is a special 2D animation project. Development of versions called Moho. Designed for vector animation, but also works with raster animation. It has tools that allow you to synchronize mouth movements and others that simplify the work on creating a cartoon, as well as many additional animation effects.
ANIMO 6 is the most advanced and comprehensive product for solving the problem of “how to make a cartoon” today. Designed for modern digital production, it can operate around the clock, providing professional animation studios with reliability and high quality. It is widely used in the creation of computer games and films that programmatically combine 2D, 3D and live video in one product.
Professional animation programs
Toon Boom Studio is a professional application in the field of cartoon creation. ("The Simpsons" is an example of how this application works). Focuses on a cartoon style of hand-drawn animation. The presence of a wide range of tools makes the work of multipliers convenient and fast.
Animation Stand is a professional product for automated creation 2D animations. There are versions that run on Mac and Windows, which are used by professional animation studios in many countries around the world.
Online animation programs
To draw cartoons, it is not necessary to have a program installed on your computer. It is enough to use the available free online drawing services. Examples include the following simple computer drawing games.
Pencil Madness is suitable for drawing various fancy pictures, has a simple interface and unexpected graphic effects. Pre-registration on the website (pencilmadness.com, call using the sketch button) is not required.
Graffiti Creator will help you draw multicolor graffiti type inscriptions and has a large number of fonts. To save the result, you should take a screenshot (website graffiticreator.net).
Multator is a simple editor for drawing cartoons (website multator.ru).
Tuteta.ru - drawing on the empty space of an endless canvas. Registration on the website (tuteta.ru) is required. As a result of drawing, we get a link containing in the title the coordinates of the completed drawing.
Conclusion
The review given in the article of a small number of a truly huge number of programs for creating cartoons, I think, will help you understand this diversity and resolve the question of how to make a cartoon for yourself and your child. After all, animation classes are useful both as a fun activity and for developing artistic abilities.
Many often after watching, or while watching, wanted to change the plot or course of action in the cartoon, so to speak, create their own cartoon. In this article we will look at programs that will help both novice users and professionals create their own cartoons, based on their own plots, with their own characters.
Programs for creating 2D and 3D cartoons and their main capabilities will be considered. When considering programs, we will take into account those applications in which it will be possible to create a cartoon, starting with the creation of a character and ending with the publication of the cartoon.
The presented programs have the ability to create a full-fledged cartoon with the creation of character graphics, animation and plot. Each utility has its own unique set of tools that will help create a cartoon for both a novice and inexperienced user, and a professional.
It is worth noting that all presentations of the program are available free of charge in trial mode. You can try out the functionality of each application and choose the one that suits you. After the trial period ends, you will be offered to purchase a license.
Programs:
- Pencil
- Anime Studio Pro
- Toon Boom Harmony
- iClone Pro
- Autodesk Maya
Pencil
This utility is one of the easiest to learn and is suitable for creating simple animated videos with drawn characters. The familiar interface of the standard Windows OS utility Paint is implemented in this program; one might say it is identical except for the timeline.
Pencil is a great choice for beginners who want to try out what it's like to create cartoons. For large projects, this utility will, of course, not be enough, since it does not allow you to create 3D cartoons with high graphic components and has a limited set of tools and functions.
The operating principle of this utility is very simple: draw frame-by-frame animation for your character and combine it all into one video. The program supports working with multiple layers and frame-by-frame animation.
Tools and features:
- Tools for working with layers.
- Frame-by-frame editing tool.
- Drawing tools.
- Function for setting up frame-by-frame playback of pictures.
- Possibility of loading ready-made drawings and pictures.
This set of tools is ideal for creating a very simple cartoon or 2D hand-drawn animation.
Pros:
- the program is completely free.
- very simple interface.
- Ideal for creating small animated videos.
- No special skills or knowledge are required to work with the program.
- possibility of Russification.
Cons:
- not suitable for creating complex cartoons with high quality graphics.
- there is no possibility of creating 3D cartoons.
- small set of tools.
Anime Studio Pro 
This program is already a more powerful editor for creating cartoon or animated videos. This utility may be of interest not only to beginners in this field, but also to professionals, as it has a fairly large set of tools and options. But the presence of a large set of functions does not complicate it, since the interface remains very simple.
Anime Studio Pro makes it possible not only to create animated videos, but also to create separate animations, and add the same animation or object to simple videos. You can also use this utility to convert a video into a cartoon.
The program contains functions and tools for working with sound, as well as a separate environment for recording and processing sound directly in the program.
The program provides many possibilities and has a large number of functions, which are described below.
Tools and features:
Pros:
- a large set of tools and functions.
- the ability to record and work with audio tracks.
- availability of tools for working with 3D objects and animation.
- possibility of Russification.
- creating cartoons in HD quality.
Cons:
- no free version.
- no visualization function.
- The interface is simple, but due to the large set of tools it is difficult to navigate.
Toon Boom Harmony
This software was released by Toon Boom, a Canadian company that produces and supports animation software. The products of this company are used by such studios as: Walt Disney Animation Studios, Warner Bros. Animation, China Central Television and many other popular studios.
Toon Boom Harmony is the company's most powerful and advanced product. The program has a large number of tools and functions that make it easier and faster to work on cartoons and animation creation.
This utility is undoubtedly the leader among animation software. Suffice it to say that such masterpieces as “The Little Mermaid” and “The Lion King” were created with the help of this software.
The program has functions for working with 3D animation, but still it is more suitable for creating high-quality and professional cartoons in 2D format.
It is worth noting a very useful and the desired function True Pencil, which allows you to animate an image, set points and fully animate it.
Toon Boom Harmony has many features that allow multiple artists and animators to work on the same project simultaneously. different places. The program implements all sets of professional applications that make it possible to work over the network.
Due to such a large set of tools and powerful functionality, the program is quite demanding on the computer hardware, namely the performance of the video adapter. Therefore, if you decide to delve into this area and work with the Toon Boom Harmony program, then you should think about buying or upgrading your computer for these purposes.
Tools and features:
Pros:
- excellent functionality.
- A huge set of additional applications.
- Possibility of working over the network.
- Possibility of Russification.
Cons:
- Difficult interface for beginners.
- no free version.
- poor implementation of creating 3D cartoons and animation.
iClone Pro 
iClone Pro software is a utility that allows you to create 3D animations with high quality textures and graphics. The program allows you to work with complex 3D animation with diverse characters.
The program has the FaceTrix function. This feature allows you to use real photos of people to create 3D animations, instead of manually drawing textures and objects.
The program has a powerful engine that makes it possible to work with physics and thereby give objects more realistic behavior.
By choosing this utility, you can create high-quality dynamic cartoons using modern graphic processing and textures.
The application has tools for layer-by-layer processing of elements, changing textures, editing the location of props, transforming the terrain and performing other tasks. When creating jobs, you can use components from the integrated container.
The program has a rather complex interface, so working with it will require prior training.
Tools and features:
Pros:
- support for multiple animation creation methods
- a large number of functions.
- shadow drawing function.
- Availability of documentation, training videos and forums on working with the program.
Cons:
- demands on computer resources.
- Highlights are not always displayed correctly.
- complex interface.
- no free version.
- There is no way to Russify the interface.
MODO
The MODO program is another powerful editor that allows you to create 3D cartoons and animations. This utility is popular due to its extensive customization capabilities.
You can fully customize this program for yourself, set hotkeys, create your own set of brushes and tools. The program has a large set of well-made libraries that will help you create animations. If these libraries are not enough for you, then you can create or modify existing libraries to suit your needs.
The MODO program has functions that allow you to create very high-quality models with image quality not inferior to Autodesk Maya. On at the moment The program has one of the best Visualizers for creating realistic pictures.
Unfortunately, to work and create cartoons in this program you will need a powerful video card and processor. Therefore, before starting work on the project, check the hardware of your computer for comfortable work in the program.
Tools and features:
Pros:
- a large number of functions.
- high-quality implementation of movements.
- shadow drawing function.
- support for working with high-quality textures.
- availability of documentation, training videos and forums on working with the program.
- possibility of Russification.
Cons:
- demands on computer resources.
- complex interface.
- no free version.
- The rendering process is not optimized.
Autodesk Maya
Autodesk Maya software is a professional tool for working with 3D images and animation. The program is used for work in professional studios. We can say that the possibilities of this program are not limited.
It’s worth noting right away that Autodesk Maya is not suitable for beginners who want to create a regular two-dimensional cartoon, as it has a rather complex interface and requires experience with similar programs.
This software has the largest set of tools, and therefore provides great opportunities for creating cartoons and various animated videos.
Using this software, you get the ability to create high-quality animation using various textures. The ability to create realistic three-dimensional models and calculate the behavior of materials, the dynamics of soft and hard bodies.
You can also create characters with realistic animation and movement in Autodesk Maya.
Such a large number of tools and the requirement for some knowledge should not intimidate beginners, since this is compensated by the same large amount of training material.
Tools and features:
Pros:
- a large number of functions.
- implementation of the full production cycle when creating a cartoon.
- high detail
- various rendering engines
- a large amount of educational material.
- possibility of Russification.
Cons:
- demands on computer resources.
- complex interface.
- no free version.
Conclusion
This list of programs presented programs for creating the most simple animations through conventional drawing, and professional programs for creating complex, high-quality 3D cartoons.
If you want to a quick fix draw a two-dimensional cartoon without putting much effort into it, then the Pencil program is ideal for you, since it does not require any knowledge or time. But if you plan to create a cartoon using 3D graphics and special effects, then you should consider four other programs and choose the one that you want to work with and are willing to spend time learning how it works.
It is worth noting that some of the software described is used by large animation and film studios to create cartoons with multi-million dollar budgets.
Several decades ago, creating cartoons was a highly specialized craft that required enormous human effort and financial costs. Thanks to computer technology, cartoon production has become easier. Programs for creating cartoons are publicly available. Today we will talk about the best programs to create animation. Our list contains diverse utilities that differ in functional features, user interface, hardware requirements and professional skills.
is the first program on the list that amazes with its sophisticated interface. Specializes on 3D animation. It is used among professionals, therefore it has a wide range of capabilities. Additionally, the software has a huge number of tools that will make the cartoon better and more dynamic: setting up transitions, supporting special effects and much more. If you want to get interested in animation seriously, then Autodesk Maya is an excellent choice for a future pro.
- Wide functionality, allowing you to make cartoons on par with Hollywood masterpieces.
- The final type of material is reproduced in excellent quality, regardless of the type of animation: flash, Gif, etc.
- The utility handles the full production cycle, from character creation to plot.
- Users can use individual instruments for third party programs. For example, creating and exporting a character.
- Without certain knowledge, working in Autodesk Maya is pointless. The user simply will not be able to use the potential of the software; he will have to read literature and watch training videos.
- Utility demanding on system parameters computer. It is impossible to work without a powerful video card and other computer components.
A highly focused utility that specializes in creating unique animated images. To create content, the user can use not only templates and blanks, but also use photographs from a personal archive or the Internet. The final result is saved in the common video format AVI. To increase the usability of the project, the developers have prepared a flexible system formatting slides, where there are functions of a transition counter, image insertion and editing color palette pictures. 
- Creation of animated banners.
- There is a Russian-language interface.
- Supports most animation formats: GIF, JPG, PNG, BMP.
- HTML code generation for publication on websites or social networks.
- Function for extracting individual frames for use in other programs.
- The best program in terms of the functions performed and the difficulty of mastering it.
- Compared to competitors it has more narrow specialization, hence missing some useful tools
- The trial version does not have a duration of use, but is limited to 20 launches.
The utility will appeal to beginning animators due to its versatility. Toon Boom Harmony allows you to work with both 2D and 3D models, which is good news for those who want to experiment. Additional features that allow it to be used in several directions, for example, in video games, deserve special attention. 
Advantages:
- Exporting 2D to a game engine. Toon Boom Harmony shows excellent compatibility with Unity.
- Convenient command working with multiple projects simultaneously via the Harmony Server function.
- A complete set of tools that simulate the process of classic frame animation.
- Support for the “True Pencil” option – scan a drawing from tracing paper.
- Integration of 2D and 3D objects.
Flaws:
- High CPU load, RAM and a video card. Requires powerful hardware.
- Not compatible with Windows XP and Vista versions.
- Lack of Russian language.
is a clear favorite for fans of Japanese animation and anime drawing. First, the utility work oriented with 2D objects, which is reflected in the interface. Secondly, the program will delight you with a wide library of ready-made characters that can be used to create cartoons. 
Advantages:
- Innovative frame-by-frame slide processing.
- Import PSD files from Adobe Photoshop.
- Intuitive user interface.
- Integrated Templates with many effects and preparations.
- Backward compatibility of vector animation for videos from Adobe Flash Player.
Flaws:
- The main disadvantage of Anime Studio Pro is the impossibility fully work with 3D graphics, so the software is not suitable for 3D projects. The problem is partially solved by compatibility with the Unity 3D engine. However, the extension functionality will not be enough to solve serious problems.
– the most innovative product in today’s selection. Through this project, animators can realize their wildest ideas. It differs from competitors by supporting Kinect technology from Microsoft, which allows transform movements real people into the cartoon space. 
- Human motion recognition.
- Fully compatible with 2D video editors.
- Creation of 3D animated videos and skinsavers.
- Supports a wide range of tools and presets.
- Using the faces of real people to model a copy based on a photograph.
- High cost product, also paid updates.
- To fully operate the utility, you will need a powerful video card.
- Lack of Russian menu (problem partially solved thanks to training videos).
is a free software for creating cartoons aimed at the amateur market. The main specialization is creating high-quality and effective slide shows with the ability to edit: adding frames, text, designing transitions, choosing colors and formatting. 
- Built-in converter for GIF animation, Flash videos and video clips. is in the public domain absolutely free.
- Reading popular video formats with resolutions up to 4K.
- Support for batch processing of objects.
- Editing an audio track.
- Limited functionality.
- An unremarkable toolbar.
- There is no Russian localization of the interface.
– an interesting program for drawing cartoons. Great for beginner cartoonists and fans of classic cartoons. Will delight fans of traditional drawing. How the software works is to create frames for 2D animation. In essence, users are invited to try themselves in the role of a virtual animator from the last century. 
- Plastic Animation Paper is completely free.
- Works great on graphics tablets and other devices.
- A relatively undemanding program in terms of PC power.
- The software allows upload your own character with effects and movements.
- Will delight virtual artists with a wide arsenal of brushes and other tools.
- Narrow specialization– only 2D and only drawing.
- Oversaturated interface - you will have to spend time learning.
- To work, you will need a third-party application, since there are no editing elements.
– representative of minimalist drawing. Suitable for learning the basics of virtual cartoon drawing. The presented software can easily cope with the task of “creating a cartoon in 5 minutes.” 
- Runs on almost any computer.
- Does not require the user to have in-depth knowledge in creating animation.
- Welcomes newcomers with a friendly and intuitive interface.
- Possesses basic set of tools for simple animation.
- The main problem of Pivot Animator smoothly follows from the advantages of the software. Due to the undemanding nature of hardware and the accessibility of the interface, it makes no sense to use the program to solve serious animation problems.
– belongs to the category of professional programs for creating animation. It has a set of tools necessary for high-quality 3D animation. Distinctive feature
ZBrush serves as a control panel where all the functions are located inside the palettes. It is noteworthy that each of the presented palettes contains a group of thematically related functions. If you become familiar with the menu, working with the program will be carried out on an intuitive level. 
- High quality 3D sculpture sculpting
- Regular software updates.
- Unusual user interface design.
- Enhanced rendering engine in real time.
- Automatic creation of shadows and highlights when working with models.
- A huge number of plug-ins that expand the functionality of the utility.
- You will need a powerful video card and processor, as well as a sufficient amount of RAM.
- It will take time to master ZBrush, and lack of Russian language complicates the task.
Modo
Modo is another representative of “software for pros”. The workflow sets the utility apart from competing applications. Instead of using basic tools, the user is offered a small set of tools that combine with each other via the Tool Pipe function. 
- Full customization of settings.
- Formation of working tools is a creative process.
- Supports real-time 3D rendering function.
- It has a detailed user interface.
- Suitable not only for cartoons, but also used in marketing and video games.
- High cost without the possibility of receiving demo version on the official website.
- It will take time to get familiar with the cluttered English-language interface.
- High demands on computer performance.
is an improved version of the Mirage package, specializing in 2D animation. The utility is positioned as a simple tool for creating classic hand-drawn animation, so the interface is tailored specifically for 2D cartoons. 
Advantages:
- Wide range of drawing tools.
- Support engine for working with particles Scan Cleaner.
- Gradual development of the project through regular updates.
- The user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners to use.
- For experienced users, the control panel will be very clear. This uses some of the features of Adobe Photoshop.
Flaws:
- The focus on 2D deprives TVPaint Animation of some functionality.
- There is no Russian language in the language settings.
is a developing project that specializes in 2D animation of cartoons and working with raster and vector graphics. Offers a classic set of features and tools for creating 2D cartoons. Perfect for introducing yourself to the profession of a modern animator. 
Advantages:
- Open source code (you can customize it to suit yourself if you wish).
- Export video to AVI, MOV, WMV formats.
- The interface is traditional for such utilities.
- Partial customization of the toolbar.
- Reading and support audio formats.
- Distribution under GPL license.
- Working with vector format.
Flaws:
- Pencil is still under development, so there may be compatibility issues on some devices, as well as glitches in the cartoon creation program.
is an entertaining project that will delight fans of the animation genre. CrazyTalk is focused on two-dimensional characters. The utility has the function human head reading, which allows you to instantly create a ready-made hero. You can download the program for creating cartoons from the official website. 
Advantages:
- Ability to create sprites.
- Human head animation support.
- Pleasant and accessible application interface.
- Extensive library, where ready-made character templates are stored.
- A basic set of tools that allows you not to be distracted by fancy parameters.
Flaws:
- The main disadvantage of CrazyTalk is that lack of drawing elements. Because of this, the potential is significantly reduced. To fully work on creating cartoons, you will need the help of third-party utilities.
– a utility that can create simple animated videos. Their basis can consist of text, images or geometric shapes. That's why Hippani Animator has object formatting function.
Advantages:
- Working with vector graphics.
- Logical interface design.
- Compatible with most browsers.
- Converting Projects into HTML codes, videos, etc.
Flaws:
- The list of shortcomings is typical for foreign products: the lack of Russian language and the requirement to have experience with similar applications. In addition, Hippani Animator is only suitable for simple projects.
Blender is a program for creating cartoons and 3D animation, capable of process 3D images. Despite the wide range of capabilities, Blender is absolutely free, so anyone can start working with 3D models. Blender is the best free utility for solving the most complex tasks. You can download the application for creating animation on the official website. 
Advantages:
- An unusual transforming interface, which, with proper study, becomes a reliable assistant in creating cartoons.
- Wide choiceplugins, ready-made objects, as well as pre-rendered scenes.
- Full customization of the toolbar and workspace.
- Open source.
Flaws:
- The uniqueness of the menu makes even experienced users get used to it.
- The mechanics of the application are based on " hotkeys", so you will have to remember them.
- Working with 3D objects requires powerful hardware.
is a product produced worldwide famous brand, well proven in the market. Almost all Flash games, spectacular animations and advertising banners on websites are made using Adobe Flash Professional. The program also performs well in realizing creative potential. 
Advantages:
- Support for proprietary Action script programming language, which significantly expands the functionality of the software.
- Wide tool set, capable of solving any problems related to Flash animation.
- The ability to create videos using JavaScript in a familiar editor format.
Flaws:
- In one of the updates, the developers removed bone animation.
- It will take a lot of time to understand all aspects of the work.
is a free program specializing in vector 2D animation of cartoons in Russian. To create colorful and interesting cartoons, the user has a wide range of tools at his disposal. The user can only use his imagination. Thanks to its functionality, it can be used for drawing anime. 
Advantages:
- Supports most versions of Windows, starting from XP.
- Working with vector and raster images.
- Smoothing of sharp corners during processing.
- Customize the toolbar for yourself.
- Reading popular video formats.
- Supports 32-bit and 64-bit OS.
- Availability of Russian-language interface.
Flaws:
- There are short-term friezes when watching frames on individual devices.
- Limitations regarding working with 3D objects and animation.
– a program for creating three-dimensional texts and stereometric figures. Present drawing function 2D contour with the ability to convert into a 3D object. The utility is excellent for creating unusual banners, signs and other models. 
Advantages:
- Library of built-in templates, animations and scenes.
- Detailed configuration of animation parameters.
- Supports 3DS, DXF, BLEND, OBJ formats.
- Export to AVI, SWF, GIF formats.
- Logical application interface.
- Availability of a portable version.
- Quick development of software.
Flaws:
- Everything is fine in Aurora 3D until the realization comes that this product cannot be called a full-fledged 3D editor.
– a professional tool for creating frame-by-frame animation. It was with the help of this program that Tim Burtin's masterpiece "Frankenweenie" saw the light of day. In addition, the utility is used in some Disney films. 
Advantages:
- Intuitive work environment based on a tabbed system.
- Automatic light adjustment using Video Assist Levels.
- Automatic camera movement control.
- Availability of vector drawing elements.
- Synchronizing lip movements with text.
- Visualized timeline.
Flaws:
- High cost licensed version.
- English language of the main menu and work panel.
- Not the best choice for beginners due to many complex settings.
Is a professional program for implementation time-lapse cartoons using virtual video cameras. Narrow specialization opens up the opportunity to control camera settings using software. A novice animator will also have several well-known animation techniques at his disposal. With their help you can save significant time. 
Advantages:
- Several versions“Capture”, “Junior” and “Pioneer” software for solving various problems.
- Preview frames in real time.
- Monitoring and setting camera parameters.
- Supports work on two monitors.
- Reads PAL, HD, Film (2K-4K) formats.
- Rotate the image 180 degrees.
- Low system requirements.
Flaws:
- The focus on frame animation reduces the versatility of the software.
- Low requirements do not allow the program to compete with the “titans” of editing.