Need some help can't get this sprite frame to look right

[Dr Fred Rubacant Edison]

I'm tring to make it look more like he is reaching out infront of him. Say to open a door or turn on a light.



It's for a opening doors or using stuff animation.  I think the one I have is ok for lower Objects. But should it look more straight out or up higher.

[Evil]

When I reach out for something, I don't extend my arm the whole way. To open a door or flip a light on the position of my elbow doesn't change much beyond resting position. As long as he gets his hand up past his elbow and maybe moves his elbow up a pixel or two it'll look fine. I'd suggest animating a profile version of this action, then do a frame by frame matchup of a rear view, which will not only make it faster and easier, but more realistic and consistent. But really, making it look right is all in the timing of your frames.

[Layabout]

If he's stretching, his left foot would be forward to balance him and right foot back and maybe off the air. Try to twist the body a bit too. It'll do a world of wonders.

[NsMn]

Remember: If the hand is in front of him, it shouldn't be visible.

[Crimson Wizard]

I'd suggest animating a profile version of this action, then do a frame by frame matchup of a rear view

Additionally, you may try drawing a top-view and stretch the "view-rays" from wanted camera position to know which body elements should be visible and which should not.
Well, that's basic descriptive geometry stuff.

BTW, maybe you should also take his pose yourself and overlook how YOU stand and hold your arm in this situation

[Victor6]

It might also be worth turning his head a little towards the object, people generally look at their hands if manipulating something unfamiliar.

[Shane 'ProgZmax' Stevens]

Place him at where he would stand before an example door in the game and then adjust his arm position such that his hand (whether we can see it or not) convinces the player it is over the position of the door knob or close to it.  You can do this either:

1.  The way you have it now, with his arm bent in front of his body to reach the doorknob.

or

2.  Having his arm bend to the left with the hand visible as it grips the doorknob.


Option 1 is much easier in terms of animation as the body hides much of the 'action'.

[Dr Fred Rubacant Edison]

Thank you for the help.  It looks good now I added one more sprite frame for the end.

Here is a video of it sorry it's hard to see. CamStudio acting crazy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fmko0J4Pjn4

[Shane 'ProgZmax' Stevens]

Very nice.  I especially like the shaking animation you added to the desk drawer when he tries to force it open.  You've come along way since you first started posting for help here, Rubacant!

[Dr Fred Rubacant Edison]

Thank you ProgZmax.   The once glass and nail road  is starting to smooth out and things are becoming easier.