Previz 02 - Imagining sequences

WITH CHANDRA SHEKAR
WHAT'S IT ABOUT?

In this course we will exercise our imagination and delve into the intricacies of sequential storytelling, and explore nuanced techniques for shot prepping and visualizing in 3D.
While we will build upon the topics covered in our previous ‘Previz for 3D Animators” workshop, artists and storytelling enthusiasts of all experience levels are welcome in this program.
DATES & DURATION
Running June 3rd to July 8th 2025, every Tuesday.
6 Live sessions in total
​
From 6:00pm - 8:00pm
(Pacific Daylight Time, GMT -7).
TUITION
One Single payment : $385
Benefits of this course:

Learn from an expert
Ask your questions and learn directly from a recognized artist

Animbot coupon
Get $10 discount on all licenses

Flexible
Learn at your own pace and from anywhere in the world
In Previs 2 - Imagining Sequences, participants will enhance their storytelling skills by exploring advanced sequential storytelling and 3D visualization techniques. Building on the "Previz for 3D Animators" workshop, this course is open to artists and enthusiasts of all levels. Over six sessions, students will delve into key concepts such as the 180 rule, shot types, lenses, and film grammar through discussions, hands-on activities, and live workflow demonstrations. The curriculum emphasizes continuous analysis, intuitive imagination exercises, and iterative feedback, enabling learners to construct and refine compelling sequences effectively before digital production begins.
Course Breakdown
Session 1:
-
Introductions
-
Refresher on Previz and the basics of filmmaking
-
Shot types, lenses, transitions, and components of a shot/frame.
-
-
180 Rule
-
Understanding how the 180 rule/axis line is the backbone of both shots and sequences
-
-
Suggested homework - Study a sequence and break down the 180 rule, for discussion in week 2.
Session 2:
-
Activity - Discussion on the 180 rule (based on homework).
-
Overview of the structure of a sequence
-
Finding the narrative purpose, practicing our ability to image a sequence before pushing any pixels on the screen, embracing experimentation and imagination.
-
Activity - Exercising imagination, finding key frames, discussing techniques like using beats/pulse and using timers.
-
-
Suggested homework - Construct a short sequence. Boards, Photos, Animatic or 3D blocked.
Session 3:
-
First pass live workflow, Q&A
-
Studying/Analyzing blocking and staging, in the context of the 180 rule.
-
Suggested homework - Pick a genre, find reference and study the reference. Discuss rules that particularly apply to the chosen genre.
Session 4:
-
Activity - Sequence show and tell (based on homework or otherwise)
-
Studying a sequence for film grammar, rhythm
-
Second pass live workflow and Q&A if time permits
-
Suggested homework - Second pass on the sequence, or pick a new genre to study exercise imagination
​
Session 5:
-
Activity - Reviewing shots, Sequence show and tell (based on homework)
-
Live workflow of Final pass, Finesse, Q&A
-
Suggested homework - Final pass on the sequence
​​
Session 6:
-
Discussing styling and fearless experimentation
-
Q&A including homework review
​

OVERVIEW

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Chandra Shekar
Chandra's career as a Previz artist kicked off at The Third Floor Inc. His experience in the Previz deparment made him fall in love with the craft and he's since cemented his career in this discipline. Chandra has worked with several studios like ON Animation, Tangent Animation, Industrial Light & Magic and is currently employed with Day for Night visualisations. Some of the shows he's worked on include kyscraper (2018), Playmobil The Movie (2019) Ladybug & Cat Noir: The Movie (2023), Maya And The Three (2021), Uglies, Hocus Pocus 2 (2022), Superman (yet to be released) among others.
With experience from a diverse set of projects in both VFX and Animated shows combined with his interest in teaching, Chandra is excited to share his learnings with others. He aims to emulate collaborative teamwork, encourage mutual learning and help harness a relationship with creativity.
Outside work hours, one can find Chandra pursuing his other artisitc endeavours like scultping, sketching, painting; music projects; bicycle and motorbike riding and embracing any new interest that arises.