OpenToonz Overview
What is OpenToonz?
OpenToonz is a robust, industry-level 2D animation software that has been widely used by professional studios, including the renowned Studio Ghibli. Originally based on the “Toonz” software developed by Digital Video, OpenToonz was launched as an open-source project, making it freely available for both commercial and non-commercial use.
Key Features and Functionality
Animation Tools
- Vector and Bitmap Drawing: OpenToonz supports both vector and bitmap drawing, allowing users to create artwork of any complexity. It includes full support for graphic tablets, enhancing the drawing experience.
- Frame-by-Frame Animation: The software features a complete toolset for traditional frame-by-frame animation, including configurable onionskin and automatic creation of inbetween frames for vector shapes.
- Keyframe Animation and Motion Tweening: Users can create animations using keyframe animation and motion tweening, making it easier to manage complex movements.
Scanning and Cleanup
- Paper Drawing Scanning: OpenToonz includes the GTS Scanning Tool, compatible with TWAIN standards, which simplifies the process of scanning and cleaning up paper drawings. This tool supports black & white, colored, and binarized scans.
Rigging and Animation
- Bone Rigging and Inverse Kinematics: The software allows for rigging models by linking separate sections and setting pivot points. It also supports inverse kinematics, enabling smooth and coordinated movements of model limbs.
- Particle Systems and Effects: OpenToonz includes particle systems for creating complex effects in multiple layers or as control images for particles animation. Additionally, it offers over 100 effects such as blurs, lighting, keys, masks, and warps.
Digital Painting and Color Management
- Digital Drawing and Painting: Users can create digital drawings and paintings using the provided styles and tools. The software ensures color consistency across frames with indexed color palettes that can be edited at any time.
- Color Management: OpenToonz offers robust color management features, allowing for consistent colors throughout the animation and the ability to edit palette colors automatically across all drawings.
Automation and Scripting
- Scriptable Interface: The software supports an ECMA-compatible scripting engine, enabling users to automate routine tasks and synchronize animation with video footage automatically.
Interface and Customization
- Customizable Interface: OpenToonz allows users to customize the interface appearance by choosing from various themes (Default, Blue, Dark, Light, and Neutral) and languages (including English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and Chinese).
- Customizable Shortcuts and Command Bar: Users can customize shortcuts and the Command Bar to have their favorite tools and commands readily available.
Audio and Export Options
- Audio Synchronization: The software supports audio recording directly within the application and synchronizes audio with video footage. It also includes enhanced audio format support, allowing for clearer recordings.
- Export Options: OpenToonz provides a variety of export options, including new exporting features and support for multiple file formats.
Additional Features
- Multiplane Camera and Scene Cast: The software includes a multiplane camera effect and scene cast features, allowing for complex animations in a 3D environment.
- Onion Skinning and Motion Paths: Users can define complex movements using motion paths and utilize onion skinning for better frame-by-frame animation control.
Community and Support
- Open-Source and Community-Driven: As an open-source software, OpenToonz benefits from a community-driven development model, allowing for rapid innovation and communal collaboration. While support can be variable, the active community and detailed user manual provide significant resources.
Availability
OpenToonz is free to download and use, available for MacOS, Windows, and Linux. It is suitable for personal, professional, or educational use, making it a versatile tool for all levels of animation production.