By Tyler Christiansen
SW Junior High Options

Our animation class wrapped up a stop-motion project that asked students to build a one-minute film from scratch. Each group had to capture at least 600 individual photos and animate them at 10 frames per second. The goal was to learn the fundamentals of frame-by-frame storytelling, timing, and visual planning.

Students worked in small groups and brought a wide range of ideas to life. Some used LEGO to stage action scenes, while others turned everyday objects into characters—monsters made from school supplies, wedding ceremonies between water bottles, and other unexpected combinations. The variety of stories showed how much creativity can come from simple materials when the focus is on movement and imagination.

The finished videos highlight the patience and collaboration that stop motion demands. Their work is featured below.