Any creative person can tell you that there’s a certain satisfaction in watching your ideas come to life. Yet, in the case of the Photography Club at PS 115 and PS/MS 37, this has become true in an almost literal sense: Our young photographers-in-training are working to master stop-motion photography, and are already on their way to adding junior animator to their long list of accomplishments. This new initiative is a long-time coming, as students learn to blend their tactile camera skills with technological savvy, using iPad compatible software to bring their creative visions to life!
What is Stop-Motion? And Why?
Stop-motion is a filmmaking technique where the subjects are physically manipulated between individually photographed frames; subsequently, when the frames are played in sequence, the playback creates the illusion of movement. This is actually the oldest form of animation, and has been practiced by filmmakers for over 100 years. Of course, COMPASS participants are having an easier job than Walt Disney himself, since they’re able to compile clips right on their iPads! Nonetheless, the process runs a lot deeper than taking random photos, as students were encouraged to brainstorm their own ideas, with the intention of making their own storyboards. This is a hands-on process that encourages self-expression above all else!
Animating Art and Minds
From the very beginning, the purpose was to give students complete creative control over their animation projects. By arming them with a camera and some scrap paper, we challenged them to to seek out another tool for their arsenal – their imaginations. Although the project might’ve seemed abstract at first, through gradual steps, students were able to see their visions take shape. Through hard work and perseverance, activities like these help build self-esteem while also helping participants to develop their problem solving skills.
As for those of us instructing them, the best reward to witnessing the pride they feel when it all comes together!!!
