13.10 Animation Keyframes

In previous examples, Keyframes were automatically inserted in the Timeline when the Stroke or

part of the Stroke was moved in the 3D View Editor with the Timeline Cursor positioned at a new

Frame.

When using Armatures to move Strokes you either manually insert

Keyframes or activate Automatic Keyframing.

Manual Keyframes

With the Armature in the initial position and the Dope Sheet Cursor at

Frame 1, press the I Key to display the Insert Keyframe menu.

There are numerous options but for this simple demonstration where

only the Lower Arm is being Rotated, select LocRot (Location )

Rotation).

In the Dope Sheet Editor Timeline move the Cursor to the next Frame

and press the I Key a second time and select LokRot. Repeat the

process for successive Frames.

Note: You will NOT see Keyframes being inserted in the Dope

Sheet Editor Timeline.

Figure 13.25

Figure 13.24

Dope Sheet Editor Timeline

Drag the upper edge of the Timeline Editor up to see the Keyframes.

Automatic Keyframes

Timeline Editor Timeline

Keyframes

Automatic Keyframes

Figure 13.26

With the Armature at the initial rest position and the Timeline Cursor at Frame 1, click the

Automatic Keyframe button in the Timeline Editor Header. Rotate the Armature slightly in the

2D Viewport Editor then return it to the initial position. A Keyframe is inserted at Frame 1. Move

the Timeline Cursor to the next Frame and Rotate the Armature. A new Keyframe is inserted.

Repeat the process for successive Frames.

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