One of the standout aspects of the Yeo’s Journey project was the level of collaboration and creative problem-solving involved. Jacq Burns, a 3D Generalist, mentioned the significant learning curve with animation, particularly with creating shoals of fish. With guidance from the lead animator, Luke Angus, Jacq was able to bring these challenging elements to life, contributing to the immersive experience of the project. This project also marked Jacq’s first major dive into animation, where experimenting and constant tweaking were key to achieving the final look.
The project also provided an opportunity for unique creative expression. Luke Angus highlighted the challenge of animating Yeo, a simple geometric shape, to convey personality and enthusiasm. This was achieved through sharp, excited movements that mirrored Yeo’s eagerness to showcase the caves. Additionally, the creative challenge of animating Yeo’s shapeshifting sequences added depth and playfulness to the character, enhancing the narrative. One memorable moment during production was when Luke created a heroic and inspiring goat animation, which added a fun element to working on the project.
Technical innovation played a crucial role in the project. Rafael Bicalho faced the challenge of creating abstract effects that would stand out in the cave’s environment. He utilised the reflow plugin for Cinema 4D for quick and efficient water simulations, avoiding the extensive caching usually required with Houdini. This approach allowed for seamless integration of water effects, enhancing the visual storytelling without compromising on detail. Rafael also mentioned the use of z-depth passes coloured later with gradients, a technique that added a unique visual style to the project.
The project’s collaborative atmosphere was evident from the start. New team members, like Rafael, felt warmly welcomed and supported, which fostered a productive and creative environment. This sense of teamwork and shared purpose was crucial in overcoming the technical difficulties and ensuring that the final animations were cohesive and engaging. The camaraderie and mutual support among the artists were pivotal in bringing Yeo’s Journey to life.
