Certified Animation Professional (CAP) Practice Test

What is a key characteristic of claymation?

1. A type of software used for animation

2. A series of drawings in a physical book

3. A digital tool for 3D animation

4. A storytelling method without visuals

The correct answer is: A series of drawings in a physical book

The key characteristic of claymation is its use of physical three-dimensional figures made from modeling materials, primarily clay, which are manipulated and photographed frame by frame to create the illusion of movement. This technique is distinctly different from drawing animations or digital tools since it involves tangible objects rather than digital processes. In claymation, animators sculpt characters and scenes from clay, allowing for a unique aesthetic and texture that is inherent to this method. The process involves careful adjustments of the physical models, where each slight change in position is captured in a sequence of photographs. When played back at a standard frame rate, these images produce the illusion of motion. The other options do not accurately represent the defining features of claymation. For instance, a series of drawings would pertain to traditional 2D hand-drawn animation, whereas digital tools and software involve completely digital approaches that do not utilize physical materials. A storytelling method without visuals suggests narrative techniques used in mediums like audio podcasts or radio, which again differ vastly from the visual focus of claymation. Thus, the definition aligns best with the unique capabilities of claymation in animation practices.