At C4Real, we believe it is important to invest in the future of our sector. That is why we support future 3D designers, art directors, and motion designers.

After all, they are the ones who will carry on the profession we are so passionate about. Therefore, we collaborate closely with educational institutions such as Saxion University of Applied Sciences and ROC van Twente. This collaboration goes beyond just supervising interns and graduates and introducing them to the job market. For example, our C4Real team members conduct various masterclasses. A good example is the joint involvement with BuROCee in Enschede.

BuROCee

In recent times, we have enjoyed collaborating with students within BuROCee through two extensive educational modules; an initiative from ROC van Twente. Here, media design students have the opportunity to work with real clients on project assignments connected to the industry. The twelve students we supervise come from various disciplines, taking on the challenge of deepening or broadening their knowledge.

The Assignments

Part of the project was for the students to create an assignment for us.

Assignment 1: From storyboard to a 2D motion graphics animation using Adobe Character Animator; the assignment was about animating a 2D character in Character Animator CC. The students explored the possibilities for character animation in this new application from the Adobe Suite. In this program, it is possible to animate an animation in real-time using controllers. Supporting the assignment, the students received a short storyboard and the production character assets.

Assignment 2: Create a short 3D animation based on STEP source models; the assignment given to the students was to create a 3D animation based on existing 3D models from our client, focusing on the workflow. This is to simulate how the making of a 3D production often unfolds in practice. The students were given freedom in their choice of software and how they shaped the animation. We will elaborate further on this assignment.

The Introduction

In the introductions, the students got acquainted with the process we use in making our productions. Art director Chris Leenheer: “This gives them a good idea of what they can expect when they start working for an employer. Therefore, the students were supervised through the pre-production process; the important step in making animations. Here, the client's request is visually elaborated using, for example, a storyboard or a motion style guide. An important step in the production because it clarifies for the client what they can expect as a final product.”

Two weeks after the introduction, a masterclass was held, led by Stefan Siderius, Lead 3D Designer at C4Real, with Chris Leenheer, our Art director, also present. During the masterclass, Stefan went through the steps of a 3D production and provided several useful tips for successfully executing a BuROCee assignment. Subsequently, Stefan and Chris gave individual feedback on the students' work.