Is there a software to stylize a 3D animation (make it more 2D when 3D work is done)? To be more specific, I need a software to cut down the process of faking 3D. I know some of them have “automatic inbetweening” but it’s not enough.
Cartoons such as Simpsons, Family Guy … are very simple and 2D alike. But others like Megas XLR, Ben 10, Ghost in the Shell, a lot of other anime … When you watch them the 3D movements of the character has more volume and form and think it's 3D animation. But when he turns his head in 3/4 view his eyes don't obey the rules of perspective. Those cartoons look like a hybrid of 2D and 3D animation. That’s what I want.
The 3D image (the left one) is not 3D-accurate but lets pretend it is for the sake of point:
So I believe animation studios have software integrating 2D and 3D features together. But I’ll be happy if I can at least use a finished 3D animation done in a 3D software (like Blender), then use the frames to 2D stylize it (to break the perfect 3D rules) for artistic and other purposes. With my limited understanding I imagine what's on the frames should be converted from raster to vectors to manipulate it in 2D.
Is there a free or open-source software of that nature or I’ll have to stick with Synfig and OpenToonz?
With all that in mind here's a list of features.
Most essential features
- 2D stylize 3D animations done in a 3D software - This is my goal. As I said, a hybrid of 2D and 3D (the second line of cartons I mentioned above).
- Real-time preview of animations.
- Use lines with line effects - like in every general cartoon (and anime).
Nice to have features
- 2D with 3D integration - Would be nice. I'll have more control while animating.
- Attach elements on 3D characters and objects by drawing them in 2D - By "3D characters and objects" I mean when they move in perspective. They don't have to be real time "3D objects" (the way 3D game engines work).
- Shaders support - Change the way characters and objects interact with light (diffuse, reflection, refraction).
