Walk cycles

[after_effects_learner]

Hello guys,

I have been trying to do walk cycles using DUIK bassel in after effects. But i'm not able to achieve the smoothness and natural movement like a professional.

specially when the character has to step down, Its like hes hitting hard to keep the foot down. Please tell me where i'm going wrong.

[Szalam]

Looks to me like you've got some knee snapping happening due to your targets moving beyond the layer's size so they can't stretch far enough.

[andrewdraws]

Hi Szalam!  Not sure if you'll get this, but I'm having the same problem. I've tried to use DUIK to rig up several characters, and I ALWAYS have problems with the legs "snapping" during a walk cycle. You mentioned "targets moving beyong the layer size" ... not sure what that means. Can you explain?

[ScooterD76]

I notice 2 things- the one that jumps out at me the most is that the their is no bounce. the characters upper body should bounce up and down a little with each step.

The feet- they stay level during the full cycle. they should be flat on the down-step, until even with the body, then angled downward (with bent toe) on the back-step. A little more knee bend on the lift will point the toe down, then slightly up just before the  next down-step.

These little touches can be slight or exagerated, but will add that natural look you are after

ALAN BECKER - Animating Walk Cycles - YouTube