Anime Studio 8: Character Wizard, Automatic Image Tracing
updated 09:00 pm EDT, Wed June 8, 2011
Update improves vector selection, lip-sync, more
Smith Micro has launched an update to its animation software, Anime Studio Debut 8 and Anime Studio Pro 8. Version 8 adds a Character Wizard for easy assembly of people and creature characters, featuring a large library of character faces and parts and easy adjustments to heads, torso and limbs. Proportion controls, facial adjustments and pre-built animation joints are all on tap for fast character building. The interoperability of the character parts and the library of pre-built faces allow animators to quickly build large numbers of animatable characters. The Character Wizard also supports user-generated art, and artists can add user-generated art to each drop-down option.
Animators can now capture their drawings as animatable art with the new Automatic Image Tracing tool, scanning in drawings as resolution-independent vector characters with numerous animation points built-in during the scan. The Character wizard library supports Automatic Image Tracing captures. A Vector Shape Selector selects objects across multiple layers, and the drawing tool now supports fills on overlapping lines. Tool Palate is now smarter, showing only applicable tools for the current task in beginner mode. Lip-syncing is improved, based on sound amplitude.
Debut 8 is focused on beginner animators and hobbyists, while Pro 8 is geared towards professional animators and production studios. A Beginner’s Mode guides Debut 8 users through using the key tools to start creating animated videos and shorts.
The Pro version's Automatic Image Tracing supports color drawings and photographic edges. It integrates with Photoshop, allowing instant updates in Pro 8 when a linked image is changed in Photoshop, so long as both are open at the time. The Pro version allows animators to create new movements, supports advanced scripting, global rendering styles and features faster rendering.
The software requires Mac OS X 10.5 or later, and an Intel-based Mac is recommended. Flash 9 or newer is needed for its embedded Library. Anime Studio Debut 8 is $50, while Anime Studio Pro 8 is $200. To celebrate the launch of v8, the two titles will be on sale through June 12, with Debut 8 for $20 and Pro 8 discounted to $130.
