Diorama
Project Overview
The assignment was to create a 15-second virtual diorama using Adobe After Effects that tells a simple, clear story. We had to include at least 12 key-framed elements, use sound effects, camera movements, and add an opening and closing curtain. The goal was to practice animating in 3D space while also paying attention to design and storytelling.
Concept & Storyboarding
For my diorama, I chose the theme of a video game, where the player has to eliminate all the targets to win. The story starts with a cemetery gate opening with fog rolling out, revealing the inside of the cemetery. A laser gun then appears with ghosts coming from graves. The goal was to eliminate all the ghosts but at the end the player loses. The storyboard mapped out these movements across 15 keyframes, each with a rough sketch and description of what happens.
Audio Plan
To bring the scene to life, I wanted a spooky, playful music track that matched the theme. I also included sound effects for each blast of the laser. The gate would have a subtle creaking sound as it opens, adding to the atmosphere. I made sure to note that audio levels needed to be balanced so nothing drowned out the action.
Animating the Diorama
Using After Effects’ 3D space, I set up the scene, creating layers to add depth. I keyframed each element’s movement, making sure the transitions were smooth. The opening and closing added a spooky touch. By keeping the duration at exactly 15 seconds, I was able to time the actions and sound effects so the story flowed from start to finish without feeling rushed.
Final Details
I finished the animation with 10-frame fade-ins and fade-outs from black, giving it a polished look. The project was rendered in HD 1080 for a crisp, clean finish. In the end, the diorama felt like a fun video game, with all the elements interacting and the whole thing wrapping up nicely with the gates closing.
