Elemental Magic, Volume II: The Technique of Special Effects Animation (Animation Masters Title) by Joseph Gilland (2011-09-21) Paperback – January 1, 1786

It has been said that one must learn special effects for animation prior to animating or any other process in the field. I do not know if this is a solidified truth or not, but it pays off when an animator boils down the timing. Not to mention that drawing and artistic styling can manifest expansions as well when one delves into this sort of practice or study.There are plenty of examples to build a portfolio or an understanding. Let it be said that one should not copy from the examples in the book after he has firmly grasped then, and try and substitute his own takes on the matter and projects to build this portfolio.Minimal information is out or written on this subject pertaining animation, or at least as far as I know outside of an academic institution. A classical approach to the application, but beneficial digitally for a means to an end. This is one of the only sources of information pertaining to this matter, and should be a must for any student or individual starting out and interested in this area. Regarding the price and the amount of information that is stored within is a steal.The two volumes make for great additions to supplemented materials as photograph books on motion and such subjects, as well as life studies of natural phenomena.

I can't wait to use this book more. So often I'm searching for some kernel of knowledge when trying to learn new techniques (or hone existing ones), and most of the time books don't capture the same insights for me as taking a class or learning directly from another artist. But this book does it! Reading it feels like some of the best classes I had in art school, focused directly on a subject that's often glossed over, left out of "Art of" books, with true masters few and far between. I've only spent a few hours reading through the material and feel like I've already learned a lot of key things I can use in my daily work -- mostly, how to mentally approach animating special effects. I'm so glad a book like this exists, especially one penned by such an accomplished and deeply passionate artist. Thanks Joseph! You're helping make my game VFX all the better.

WARNING: THERE IS NO COMPANION WEBSITE FOR THIS BOOK!!! That was a a very big selling point for the book and the "website" is referenced to throughout it. But alas, the website does not exist. The content of the book itself is good and similar in many ways to his first book in describing concepts of energy in effects animation. Just don't be too disappointed if a big reason that you were buying the book was for access to a website with actual video tutorials or clips of someone going through the practical steps of animating effects. The book was published in 2012 and I am typing this in the last third of 2021, so don't hold your breath on a website being created. Not sure if this is the publisher's or author's shortfall with what was expected....but oh well.

The five stars are for the text and pictures. If you liked volume I, you will like volume II. My problem with the book is that the description on Amazon and the book's preface mention a "companion website." I went to the URL mentioned in the book and was found this: "Welcome to the Elemental Magic, Volume II... Online content for this book will be coming soon." This is the second book from this books publisher that I've bought lately that did not deliver on the advertised companion website. It would be nice if companion websites and promised online materials could be available when a book is published.

First of all, I think I'm in love with this book.It's not just a book it's a lot of experience and information that been collected through the past.Highly recommend it for those who want to learn animation fx.

Both Volume 1 and 2 really explain how an effect should look and feel. Anyone can press play and a fluid solver or set up a rigid body scene, but is the result appealing? Does it fit with the story? Joseph Gilland is the guy to show you how it's done right. I've heard CG artist argue that their simulation is physically accurate correct and "the reason it looks that way because gravity behaves like blah blah blah," but It's not supposed to be accurate, it's supposed to look awesome.

It has all the elements i need to create an effect for an action scene or heroic character.

I learn so much from Joseph's books. Makes me proud to be working in the industry and makes me love what I do even more. Hearing and learning things from a pro is great and inspiring.This book is a great guide for anyone and everyone that enjoys VFX =)

While Book itself seem useful enough at a glance, I'd caution anyone from getting the "new" copies here.I ordered both volmes "new" from Amazon, and both were damaged in transit (pictured is the damage to this Volume, the other was worst off). Just be aware that if you purchase "new" you may get "used" or "poor" quality.As noted above, though, the book itself seems useful.

Very useful tool for effects animators! 👌🏽

The author is a friend so I am very pleased.

A MUST for any serious artist willing to improve in their art!

Perfect book for a perfect job !