Lesson # 7 K.I.S.S.

"Keep It Simple, Stupid" is a great adage in any profession, but can be particularly helpful in the crazy ass pursuit of 24 frames per second (30 video , of course). Keeping animation simple can allow for some valuable pocket change (under budget), it helps you focus the project, and it makes your project easier to cross the proverbial finish line of "done". "Keep It Simple Stupid" is not a limitation, it is an anchor, a parameter, a goal. It isn't a limit to creativity for all creatively has some limits, it just can keep your little tush grounded.

Is it always true? Hell no! Complexity in the right hands can be amazing eye candy and can break new animation ground but it takes an extraordinary effort and a fine tuned control to keep it from being a visual car crash. It is also a trap. I have come across many artists who believe that only through a massive maze of creative ideas and techniques can artistic nirvana can be achieved. Unfortunately for those who believe the only valuable artistic pursuit is the pursuit of the nearly impossible, they are still lacking and what they lack is simplicity. The directness of the punch in the face moment.

Keeping it simple embraces a broad audience and usually is not about visual fluff and butter, it is direct and clear. No matter what your experience level or talent, "Keeping It Simple Stupid" will keep you from failing, missing deadlines, pulling your hair out, long hours, and that overwhelming feeling of "Why the hell did I make this so complicated".