Summary: Tasked with creating short high energy player graphics to be used on the large LEDs on the court floor level when a player makes a huge impact play. Working from a look and feel designed by talented Warriors graphic designers, I produced a highly kinetic celebratory animation, blending 3D and 2D elements that I made in Houdini and After Effects.
Process: I was informed four days before our first matchup that we will be using a new large video board behind the players’ benches (normally during non-Covid years this area would be filled with fans). Running against the clock I immediately create a moodboard filled with interesting typography and simulations. I had just learned Houdini and wanted to put my new knowledge to use. I spent the majority of the few days creating a swarm sim of 'Joy' basketballs, and the momentum from the creation of that asset drove me to the end of the project.
Design Language: The animation had to be less than 7 seconds and needed to further excite the crowd. Quick animation punches such as the swarm of balls coming in and the kinetic changes between various typography styles helped the piece reach a frenetic pace. A mixture of 3D and 2D elements broke the flat plane and added interesting juxtapositions of divergent elements. Desaturated and monotone photos of the players helped blend the often vibrant overlaid surrounding elements.
Role: Motion Graphics Designer