What does the process of rotoscoping involve?

The process of rotoscoping involves projecting live action frames onto a light table for tracing. This technique was developed to create realistic movements in animated films by allowing animators to trace over the recorded footage frame by frame. By using this method, animators can capture the subtle nuances of human motion and translate them into animated characters, which enhances the believability and fluidity of animated sequences. Rotoscoping has been used in various influential films, helping to blend live action with animation seamlessly. This historical technique illustrates a pivotal point in the evolution of animation, where capturing real-world movements became a foundational aspect of the art form.

In contrast, the other choices present methods that do not align with the traditional definition of rotoscoping. Drawing directly on screens refers more to digital animation techniques, creating 3D models from sketches pertains to computer-generated imagery, and animating without reference materials implies a lack of a basis in real-world movement, which negates the purpose of rotoscoping.