Anime is typically made using a combination of traditional and digital animation techniques. The process of creating an anime involves several stages, including:
1. Planning and Pre-Production: The first step in creating an anime is the planning and pre-production phase. This includes developing the story concept, characters, and overall theme of the anime. Once the concept is approved, the script is written, and the storyboard is created. The storyboard is essentially a comic book version of the anime, with detailed illustrations of each scene and the camera angles.
2. Casting and Recording: After the storyboard is complete, the voice actors are cast, and the voice recording process begins. The voice actors record their lines in a studio while watching the storyboard to ensure the lip movements of the characters match the dialogue.
3. Animatics: Animatics are rough sketches of each scene that are used to create a rough draft of the animation. They are reviewed by the director and revised as needed.
4. Key Animation: The key animator draws the main poses and movements of each character and creates a rough draft of each scene. The key animation is usually created digitally, using specialized software.
5. In-Between Animation: The in-between animators fill in the frames between the key frames to create a smooth and fluid animation. This process can be done manually or with the help of software.
6. Backgrounds and Coloring: Once the key animation and in-between animation are complete, the backgrounds and coloring team add color to each frame and create the backgrounds for each scene.
7. Special Effects and Lighting: Special effects, such as explosions, fire, and magic, are added to the animation during this phase. The lighting team also adjusts the lighting in each scene to create the desired mood.
8. Editing and Sound Design: The final step is editing and sound design. The animation is edited together, and sound effects, music, and voice acting are added to create the final product.
Throughout the process, the director oversees the creation of the anime and ensures that the final product matches their vision. The specific process can vary depending on the studio, budget, and timeline for the project.