What Goes into the Background Art (in Anime)?

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When we talk about animation, it's impossible to ignore the background art. Today we take a look at what goes into the art that anime so heavily relies on.
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[@ItsEndyy]

As an aspiring background artist, People don't tend to realize how difficult it is on how to make backgrounds to convey a mood or a setting. That's why seeing backgrounds on anime just mind blows me sometimes on how they added the light/shadows.

[@PauseandSelect]

Damn fam this editing is so fresh, so clean!

[@PvPjimenez]

True true

[@HxH2011DRA]

oh shit waddup!

[@PauseandSelect]

***** Hmm, I don't mind the pregnant pause. Perhaps it's just a preference thing, it didn't bother me.

[@PauseandSelect]

***** That's fair. It might just a preference difference between us.

[@NAGA_99]

Reading this comment just had me thinking about that outkast song

[@DatYouTubeGuy]

A lot of anime now days use 3D software for there perspectives and backgrounds nowadays since it makes it more easier and convenient.

[@moushumidas1901]

Yes,I also love this technique ❤️

[@user-xh6ju3pg8c]

No, it's not that easy

[@DatYouTubeGuy]

@@user-xh6ju3pg8c I've worked for J.C. Staff they literally do this lol.

[@user-xh6ju3pg8c]

@@DatKZbinGuy but still I don't find it easy just because it's 3d...I mean It takes time to learn things well for 3d And I haven't worked for jc staff

[@uncrstbl]

@@user-xh6ju3pg8c he didn't say easy, he said easier. It's still hard work but nobody is denying that

[@victorangeles655]

Rc Anime's video's are soo well put together, his logical reasoning is amazing, the editing is very very fresh. He uses the perfect song for the perfect moments, and changes the song and scene of the vid so well it feels like waves, not something awkward.

[@sonicfraisheya4028]

i now have my bakashift replacement yeshh

[@RCAnime]

If you would like to know the name of the anime being shown, click the "cc" button.

[@fearlessAx]

Can you post a list of the documentaries used as well?

[@RCAnime]

They're in the description now.

[@ataraxia7439]

+

[@leviathan5207]

man i love your videos, informative, professional and comfortable ^^

[@potatochipappi]

Chisos..... Dis guy is so good at this stuff, that's why he has so many subscribers

[@Strekks]

parallaxing is always a cool technique. Love it

[@TotallyGoodatGames]

I remember that there was a period when people thought paralax scrolling was overrated! WHAT FOOLS THEY WERE.

[@OtakuVs]

I've been meaning to watch that Lupin movie for Aaaaaages! And now I will! As always fantastic shit! Well paced with awesome music!

[@HxH2011DRA]

Damn alot of the big ytbers know each other huh?

[@allysonschuman7669]

This is such a great channel. I've never seen anyone pick apart anime in an academic and educational way. And the execution omg so well put together :) keep it up!

[@TehAnimeHQ]

A video uploaded by you is a day that just got better. Fantastic work :D

[@mo.orange]

Thanks for uploading. I'm a background artist ( not for anime though) and it's really cool to see other people appreciating how much backgrounds influence the feel of a show.

[@AnimeCommander1]

That Girls und Panzer der Film clip. I loved how inventive the film was. So many great uses of the background. Felt so alive as a film. Great video like always!

[@netherx380]

RC, you are hands down, and I mean that, the best anime youtuber out there. You're so educated and yet your videos are so comprehensible! It's amazing. Keep up the good work, you really deserve more viewers!

[@Alphira]

One anime I believe that deserves to be featured in this video yet wasn't is Madoka Magica. The unique backgrounds (cut-out style) draw attention of the audience, yet sometimes also feature elaborate and symbolic scenery (eg. the buildings and roads and various scenes)

[@Colegial24]

He did mention studio Shaft, and since they did Madoka it is kinda implicit. He does like madoka a lot, he once made a review on it and gave it a really high score

[@Alphira]

Colegial24 You make a good ppint, however I would've been really overjoyed if Madoka was directly mentioned in the video tho, being one of my favorites :D But I am also extremely pleased with the selection of scenes and anime in this video, and I am quite satisfied already c:

[@Colegial24]

Alphira Rubica Yes! I completely understand the overflowing joy of having one of your favorites praised!

[@Alphira]

Colegial24 Yea ^^

[@TheOneTrueErica]

KZbin recommended your channel to me and I must say, as an animation junkie I could not subscribe fast enough. Gorgeous, in-depth looks at so many facets of animation, told with smooth editing and low-key narration gives the videos of yours that I've seen so far a tranquil feeling coupled with genuine enthusiasm. Absolutely love it!

[@EleosAnim]

i go back to this video every now and then. just to learn from it and appreciate it more.

[@graceheron5672]

Anime is so beautiful and different

[@AlistairFindlay]

The only; "real", academic standard, analysis channel imho. Fantastic work as usual. Intelligent word choices blended with accurate terminology.

[@Daichikun]

The way you explain things is so clean and easy to understand in many ways... not to mention the editing is.... ugghh.... SUBSCRIBED!.

[@ShayyShayyv]

Your channel is what makes me appreciate anime art and backgrounds and everything even more than i already did and i thank u for that it makes my experience while watching anime an even better one.

[@pigeon4422]

new hobby acquired

[@kcam_12]

OMG I can't believe you put Kazuo Oga Interview/Drawing Session! That's my favourite anime!

[@allaroundergeek2967]

Man, you are getting better and better. You reminded me to Every Frame a Painting in this one. Keep the good work.

[@jamfilledjars]

As a student learning 3D animation, the environmental art of anime has always inspired and fascinated me. I’ve tried to replicate it to some degree in Photoshop (to varying degrees of success), but I’m still left awestruck. I’m not usually one who watches anime, but lately I have been getting into it more. One that I revisited was Sword Art Online. Now, I personally don’t care about its plot, however, I do care about its music and art style. The details that the artists convey in SAO is nothing short of museum-worthy, so to its melancholy yet tranquil musical compositions with the acoustic guitar and piano. Specifically for me, I adore how they managed to capture the natural beauty of the mountains and lakeside cabin, both of which resonated with me on a personal level (I live a few hours drive from the Rockies and my family once owned a lakeside cabin), so the nostalgia is there. And that’s really the beauty of it, they perfectly encapsulated the emotions of the scene. Of the characters at their cabin. One of peaceful, bittersweet catharsis in an unforgiving world, much the same as our own.

[@Zentagon]

Good video, made me think about things I havent really fully focused on when watching anime.

[@kybolt6635]

Well done. You've brought the background into consideration. A lot of people miss the importance of the background art. The movements, the scales, the colors, the direction, and the relation are all things to consider. You've done a great job explaining how the background plays out.

[@Shad6961234567890]

Your videos are just awesome. Really informative and helped me to realise how much works gose for making an Anime come to life. keep up your great work.

[@amira-amiracle-7846]

For me the sounds in an anime, especially a movie, are essential too!

[@goody639]

I just wanted to say that I love your videos. Your detailed analysis of the elements that create an visually appealing work of animation, along with your wrap al options as to how they affect the viewer, are done exceptionally well. I always look forward to your videos, as I myself extract knowledge from them and receive inspiration

[@labdjcxn3xy]

I love your channel because its so artful in presentation and music, and it really gives your videos a beautiful atmosphere you can't get from other channels.

[@define1455]

Thank you for your channel RCAnime!

[@nikugrill]

I have to say I appreciate the ever loving shit out of your videos. Essays and analysis of animated mediums are barely given the same attention and merit as ones done for traditional film, let alone comparisons between the two. Especially in a way that's not pretentious and haughty like the majority of anime youtubers. Keep it up. You deserve so much, man.

[@Nac]

Hey, as a background artist myself, I really appreciate the thought and talent you put into this video! I think I might show this to my parents to give him a better idea of what I actually do. Hahaha. Again - thanks!

[@tomo55554]

you're videos are so calming, I love the music

[@littleripper312]

One of my favorite things in anime is good backgrounds. I appreciate them so much and will be in awe at them each scene. They really are beautiful.

[@gregmcginnigle118]

Another great job man! Your editing seems to just get better and better and your use of music really enhances my emotional attachment to your videos and always seems to give me a new artist to check out.

[@ReclusedRamo]

awesome video as usual👍 I wish that you can make a video talking about how the coloring is so important to describe the the atmosphere of the anime..

[@vidia2649]

bro i loveeee your video, its very informative and enjoyable, I didnt even realize ive spent 8 minutes watching this.

[@Adi-pw1ed]

Hi! I stumbled upon your wonderful channel just the other day while looking for some Makoto Shinkai's work. I'm so glad I found your videos! They're smart and interesting. They remind me of Nerdwriter1 and these are even better because they're about anime! Thanks so much again! Keep up the good work 🌿

[@cronalastbraincell_]

Man this is so calming.

[@omnigodx11]

i really like your behind the scenes style channel and seeing the unseen emotions and efforts of the artists behind their cinematography. you're also quite articulate and meticulous in your explanations. i also like the chill cafe conversation ambiance and modern-day documentary feel your videos have. subscribed! keep it up!

[@naldect9141]

Underrated Channel, it needs more views and subs

[@dasorra]

I came over from Quicktaku. This is the second video of yours i have watched. I gotta say, this is some really quality work you've put together here. Keep it up, it's good!

[@meekailmugdho8771]

i love the way you edit and explain stuff. Love your work

[@BasementOtaku]

I have been looking for a video that touched on this subject. Thank you for producing a well made one. :)

[@iralene4857]

i honestly do not get how you dont have more subscribers. your videos are some high qualitg stuff

[@wormbag80]

I've always wanted to know because their background are just so detailed it's crazy

[@bremdia]

your videos are beautiful, relaxing and have the feeling that you make a lot of research, so thank you for all your hard work. by the way i really love the work of Nizo Yamamoto.

[@goldentrout4811]

You deserve more subs man. Soon your work will be recognized across the world i hope.

[@goomba478]

Your videos are so insightful and full of attention to detail. Someone should hire you to do a full length documentary :).

[@derpynerdy6294]

So far for me witstudios backgrounds in anime is gorgeous aot, Vinland saga, kabaneri, the clouds the sky the lighting it’s all beautiful

[@jeanbatiste]

god im in love with this channel, thank you

[@cadenrichter6]

i cant get enough of these videos

[@hallyfile]

Great one, I love the quality of your videos, hope you keep up this amazing work.

[@robinfernando5970]

You make some pretty damn good analysis videos, keep up the great work!

[@Fantong3]

Awesome video as always you definitely deserve more subscribers

[@cassandramcbride242]

I'm not even into Anime, but I appreciate this video! Thanks! God Bless!

[@Guito93]

Thanks for another insight on animes, RC! I didn't even know about those background softwares... Love your videos ;3

[@splinterlodeizen708]

This is some really great work man, keep it up!

[@Marciobluiz]

Thnak you for the video! I'm learning a lot!

[@thomascao-t8s]

Your videos just keep getting better.

[@klangon89]

Another enjoyable video. So glad i found this channel. I learn loads and it gets me thinking the next time i watch an anime/movie. Looking forward to the next one :D

[@LonesomeKrow]

Hey I’m looking for an anime that had a 4th wall break scene explaining background art and stuff. It’s been a year or so but all I remember is a detective and his female apprentice going over how the suspect couldn’t have used a certain item as it was part of the drawn background in the scene. It was a weird scene that went over how the animated characters can’t interact with background objects😂

[@FazerGS]

I love these videos. Keep up the awesome work!

[@SplendidDIY]

amazing video! thank you!

[@fadeaway4420]

I don't remember how i found your channel tbh, but i've been watching your vids and they are great, i hope you keep making new content.

[@LPSAllyawesome]

Loving this channel, especially as an artist :) keep it up!!

[@nem42]

Damn, I really like your videos. I learn a lot from them :)

[@dentdelions]

i have tears in my eyes watching this

[@alexandresobreiramartins9461]

Shinji is given the opportunity of living in a blank space. XD

[@frylockjacques4899]

keeping my eyes peeled after this one

[@asielsmith6007]

Always enjoy your videos. Kinda wish you had a playlist of all the music lol, Im always wanting to listen to what you use.

[@nosaintsinheaven8119]

Great video, keep up the good work.

[@Scorns.]

Really good video! Would like to see a video about voice actors / seiyuu from you!

[@endercraftman2542]

Great video. Great editing.

[@vazak11]

Super insightful!

[@hansaworld1]

Thanks for this video!!

[@sleepysundaymorning]

I'd love to know the animes you featured (I always think that after every video you post oho - maybe consider starting a blog to show featured animes and post reviews and whatnot?? I'd read the heck out of it aaa) amazing job dude, your videos are beyond informative and creative; I look forward to the next!!

[@dlazaro4102]

Click the CC button for the titles, if that is what you are looking for. I know it definitely helps when I see an amazing shot from something I have not yet seen.

[@sleepysundaymorning]

Lazer-O4102 aaaa, you're a star!! Thank you qt

[@No0dz]

Great video, i honestly didn't know backgroud art studios were a thing until now. If that's their specialty, i imagine the move to full 3d background is their next step right? Kizumonogatari had a lot of 3d background which were very well done.

[@PeuzitoRox]

Dude, nice content, i'm really enjoying all your videos, although i don't agree with some reviews. I hope you keep doing those videos, they're so clean and entertaining. keep up the good work :) (sorry about the bad english,i'm from Brasil, and too lazy to translate :/ )

[@Bonny-2132]

My favorite backgrounds are from "The Children who Chase Lost Voices". So Beautiful and evocative.

[@EmilyMeganX]

This information is brilliant. I'm currently researching into how animators make and develop backgrounds and environments. I was wondering if you have done or could do a video about purely how they make and 'film' scenes? Like the methods such as cel animation for panning shots, as well as digitally created backgrounds. Would love to know more! :D

[@Corranhorn122]

Your videos are so lovely. :)

[@cadenrichter6]

that ending line again

[@aimansees8574]

Fck. I came here to watch some great background for inspiration not to cry

[@irismuddyhehe]

awesome!!!!

[@hijiriyukari]

Love the reference you show.

[@imvic99yearsago62]

Did you know The making of 1 episode of an anime takes almost or more than 6 months

[@STIR-FRIED-SUBWAY-RAT]

Please come back.

[@asielsmith6007]

Love your channel.

[@elliotrussellelliot]

good work Mr RC ☺

[@Yuukecchi]

why do i keep missing yo vids :(, and girls und panzer was amazing

[@SamPackerVids]

The sliding movement of bakgrounds used in anime has actually been coined "animetism" to set it apart from the ballistic camera movement seen in live action films, which is called cinematism. I have seen cases of cinematism used in anime however, such as in Paprika, during the opening film sequences in Konakawa's dreams.

[@mtgang2016]

awesome video!!

[@mckni5]

Great video!

[@gabrielsylvestre3708]

Nice,...I wonder how many of these I have watched...

[@Vikrant-ee1sj]

Plz make more videos about anime industry like this

[@vinayaksivadas1181]

in the end he sounded like cristopher walken

[@thedopedude2578]

WHO else is creating their own anime and getting advise from this channel

[@motatheautist2225]

I LOVE your videos ♥

[@jhonyortiz5]

this is an awesome video.