Toon Boom
Toon Boom is a Canadian software company specializing in animation production tools. Here is a detailed overview:
History
Founded in 1994 by Michel Langelier, Toon Boom initially started as a division of Softimage, focusing on digital animation software. In 1998, Toon Boom became an independent entity after Microsoft acquired Softimage. The company has since grown to become a leading provider of animation software for professionals and students alike.
Products
Toon Boom offers a suite of software solutions tailored for different aspects of animation production:
- Toon Boom Harmony - A comprehensive animation software used for both traditional and digital 2D animation. It supports all phases of animation production from storyboarding to compositing.
- Toon Boom Storyboard Pro - Focused on pre-production, this software helps in creating storyboards, animatics, and planning shots.
- Toon Boom Animate Pro - Previously known as Animate, it was designed for drawing, scanning, and painting traditional animation.
- Toon Boom Premiere - A discontinued product that was geared towards professional animators for creating traditional animation.
Key Features
- Animation Tools: Advanced drawing, rigging, and animation tools that cater to different animation styles including cut-out, stop motion, and traditional hand-drawn animation.
- Workflow Integration: Toon Boom's software integrates with other industry-standard tools like Adobe After Effects for post-production.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Features for team collaboration, allowing multiple artists to work on the same project simultaneously.
- Educational Use: Toon Boom has developed educational versions of their software, which are widely used in animation schools and universities.
Industry Impact
Toon Boom has significantly influenced the animation industry by providing tools that streamline the production process. Many notable animated films, TV shows, and commercials have been created using their software, including:
Recognition
The company has received numerous awards for innovation in animation technology, including:
- Multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Animation.
- Numerous Annie Awards for technical contributions to animation.
External Links
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