Hey folks!
Today we’ve got the first installment of a brand new feature for you! In each re:Fresh Faces I’ll be profiling a different person from the Fresh TV and Elliott Animation offices, giving you a look behind the scenes at the nuts and bolts of making a great show!

I caught up with Location/Layout Designer Sam Bradley while he was working on some new Total Drama backgrounds. While most of the artists in the studio work on computers and digital tablets, Sam explained that old fashioned light tables are actually more convenient for the work he does. Not having access to tools like copying or stretching results in a more natural look, forcing him to rely on his own sense of design.

There are two separate but equally important parts to the design of a setting. First, Sam will get the script for a new episode, and come up with a background for each location. After feedback from the directors, those are sent to the storyboard artists, helping them keep things consistent. About a month and a half later, the storyboards are complete, and Sam creates new layouts for each dramatic angle and shot!

“We were kinda spoiled with this season of Total Drama,” Sam told me. Getting to draw the locations for each city the contestants visit on their world tour was like getting to design an entirely new show each time they got a new script. For any fans looking to do what he does, Sam suggested starting with the basics. “It’s obvious, but focus on learning to draw,” he advised. To keep your work fresh and original, don’t just look at existing animation for ideas; check out everything from classical paintings to real landmarks. “Real life is the best source of inspiration.”

A big thanks to Sam for taking the time to give us this inside look at his job! Keep an eye out for more re:Fresh Faces in the weeks to come!

Stay fresh,
Brendan