Learn Movie Making with Stop Motion Animation
by Nate and Ryan Eckerson
For more information or to order: www.nr-productions.com

Leave it to homeschoolers to take a hobby and turn it into a useful resource for other families! Technology is always advancing and one of those advances is the ability to create and share your own short films with others. However, as with all things “technological” creating with stop motion animation can seem a bit overwhelming! After receiving our copy of Learn Movie Making with Stop Motion Animation, we are no longer overwhelmed and look forward to many happy hours creating our own stop motion films.

Learn Movie Making with Stop Motion Animation is a complete kit, including a spiral-bound, easy to understand book written for beginners that takes the reader step-by-step through the process of creating a completed film project. After a brief history of animation, the authors provide a complete list of items you will need to begin your adventure. This includes the recommended system requirements for both PC and Mac users. Other than a computer, the most important tools are software to capture your video and a camera. Thankfully, both are provided in the kit along with the instruction book. The other important component is video editing/creating software - fortunately most new computers come with this software pre-installed.

Leaving no stone unturned, the Eckersons explain the entire process of making a movie, from creating story boards to final editing and adding sound effects. Along the way there are plenty of pictures and illustrations to ensure the reader understands each step. There are MANY practical tips and nothing is assumed. Terminology is clearly explained.

The project used for the tutorial is a stop motion film using LEGOs. It really is amazing how exact you need to be and how long it takes to make even a 5-minute film. Even with a book that explains things so clearly, there is a learning curve and some trial and error involved as one gets used to using the various tools, lighting, sets, and software. Although older children (12 and up) should be able to use the book and kit on their own, I can see the whole family getting involved in movie making and making some great memories in the process.

For those who desire to use tiny bricks or other inanimate objects to tell a story, but don’t know where to begin, Learn Movie Making with Stop Motion Animation provides the guidance and tools to turn your ideas into a work of art, ready to share with friends, family and perhaps the world!

Making the grade: 10
Cost: $69.00
Value for your homeschool dollar: 9