Photo Animation and Computer Puppetry

     I hate to admit it, but I spent multiple hours yesterday test driving CrazyTalk5 software.  It rocks!  This product from REALLUSION allows you to animate photos/clip art (any image really) with relative ease.  The "getting started" instructions and embedded tutorials permitted me to animate a picture of myself in about 20 minutes.  I've not yet finessed the process, but I could see someone with attention to detail and a lot of time (i.e. kids) generating some really impressive work.

     The educator in me sees students using this software to bring story characters to life - especially characters they've developed through writing exercises.  I just wish I knew more about movie-making software, how to export these characters into other programs, etc.  I've got a LOT to learn.

     I give this software two thumbs up.  So does my dog, Ziggy.  I animated a digital picture of her, and her little ears perked up when I sat her in front of the computer to view it.  Much fun!