How can I create more believable secondary motion in character animations?

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How can I create more believable secondary motion in character animations?

Asked on Dec 31, 2025

Answer

To create more believable secondary motion in character animations, it's essential to understand how secondary motion supports the primary action by adding realism and depth. Secondary motion occurs as a reaction to the main movement, such as hair swaying or clothing fluttering, and should be timed to follow the primary action with a slight delay.

Example Technique:

Step 1 – Identify the primary action and determine which elements will have secondary motion.
Step 2 – Apply a delay to the secondary elements, ensuring they follow the primary action naturally.
Step 3 – Refine the motion with overlapping actions and follow-through to enhance realism.

Additional Comment:

Secondary motion should never overshadow the primary action; it should complement it.
Use easing to smooth out the secondary motion and make it feel more natural.
Observe real-life examples to understand how different materials and objects react to movement.

✅ Answered with Animation best practices.

Ask any question about Animation here... and get an instant response.

How can I create more believable secondary motion in character animations?

Asked on Dec 31, 2025

Answer

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