In post-production, Stop Motion refers to animated filmmaking technique in which objects are physically manipulated in small increments between individually photographed frames so that they will appear to exhibit independent motion picture or change when the series of frames is played back. In practice, it usually sits at the intersection of planning, shooting, and post-production.
How It Is Used
In practice, the term usually concerns planning, execution, and review across previs, shooting, compositing, animation, or finishing. In production, the term usually involves planning how an image will be altered, combined, extended, or animated before the final shot is delivered.
What It Changes
It matters because visual effects and animation are not only technical solutions; they also shape style, scale, and what the audience believes can exist on screen. Seen in context, it clarifies how technical planning and creative design have to move together for a shot to feel seamless.
Production Context
The concept is clearest when tied to workflow decisions across previs, shooting, compositing, rendering, or final finishing. That remains true whether the work is invisible support or a central spectacle element.