Erica Wilks | Animator, Artist and Virtual Videographer

Animation

Tools
Blender, Wondershare Filmora

Process
First I’ll find a reference video and drop it into Blender then I’ll establish the checkpoints of main poses in the animation sequence. Then I’ll work on the in-betweens. Once those are complete, I’ll work on facial, hair and clothing animations. Last, I’ll work in the camera movements and build the scene for the animation that’ll include things like background objects, lighting and scenery.

Virtual Videography

Tools
Blender, Wondershare Filmora, Fortnite, Unreal Engine

Process
First I’ll pick out an emote from Fortnite, build the scene (lighting, backgrounds, objects), animate hair and clothing (if needed) and direct and render camera work.

In-Game Videography

Tools
Wondershare Filmora, Fortnite, Unreal Engine

Process
When inspiration strikes, I’ll create a music video or cinematic based on a song. I’ll then look at the emotes I have in my Fortnite library and make a list of which ones I’d like to use in the video. Next, I’ll select a creative map or use Fortnite’s Battle Royale map and will then location scout for places within the map to perform the emotes in the game. Once that is done, I’ll go into Replay Mode and control the lighting then manipulate the camera work while recording my screen. I usually record at .25x speed in order to keep the final output quality at 60fps, or to speed it up to better match the song’s beat and for cleaner camerawork (with the slower movements). Once I have my clips, I’ll go into Wondershare Filmora and edit it down to the best takes. Then I’ll add transitions, effects and filters before exporting the final video.