How to Animate in Ghibli Style: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Studio Ghibli is known for its breathtaking animation, fluid motion, and emotional storytelling. If you've ever wanted to learn how to animate in Ghibli style, this guide will take you through the essential techniques, tools, and steps. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced animator, this guide will help you understand the secrets behind Ghibli's magical animations.

What Makes Ghibli Animation Unique?

The Ghibli animation style stands out due to:

• Hand-drawn fluid animation with frame-by-frame motion.

• Expressive character movements that emphasize emotion.

• Detailed backgrounds that feel alive.

• Soft, natural lighting to enhance depth.

• Realistic physics combined with a touch of fantasy.

These elements create a nostalgic and immersive experience, making Ghibli-style animation one of the most admired art forms in the industry.

Essential Tools for Ghibli-Style Animation

Before you start animating, you need the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Animation Software:

• Toon Boom Harmony – Used by professional studios for frame-by-frame animation.

• TVPaint – Great for digital hand-drawn animation.

• Adobe Animate – Good for 2D animation workflow.

• OpenToonz – Free and open-source software (used in Studio Ghibli productions!).

2. Drawing Tablets & Hardware:

• Wacom Cintiq – A professional pen display tablet for smooth drawing.

• iPad Pro with Procreate Dreams – Great for digital animation on the go.

• Huion & XP-Pen tablets – Budget-friendly alternatives.

3. References & Study Material

• Frame-by-frame analysis of Ghibli movies.

• Study real-life movement and physics.

• Learn from Neody IT tutorials and animation breakdowns.

Step-by-Step Guide to Animating in Ghibli Style

Step 1: Start with a Strong Storyboard

Before animating, create a detailed storyboard to plan each scene. Ghibli animations are known for story-driven movements, so focus on storytelling in your frames.

Step 2: Create Smooth Keyframe Animation

• Sketch keyframes that define the major poses.

• Use 12-24 frames per second (FPS) for a natural feel.

• Avoid stiff motion—Ghibli characters move organically and fluidly.

Step 3: Add Natural Movements & Physics

• Study how wind affects clothing, hair, and grass.

• Implement subtle secondary actions (blinking, breathing, slight hand gestures).

• Use squash and stretch principles to add weight and realism.

Step 4: Focus on Expressive Character Animation

• Facial expressions are key – Ghibli characters show emotions vividly.

• Use delicate hand movements and natural postures.

• Even small details like eye twitches, head tilts, and breathing add realism.

Step 5: Perfect the Background Animation

• Ghibli backgrounds feel alive, so animate subtle elements:

  • Moving leaves and flowers

  • Flowing water and clouds

  • Flickering candlelight or glowing windows

• Backgrounds should complement character movement, not overpower it.

Step 6: Add Soft Lighting & Final Touches

• Use soft, warm lighting like golden sunlight or candle glows.

• Apply gradual shading instead of harsh shadows.

• A slight grain texture can give it a hand-drawn feel.

Tips to Make Your Ghibli-Style Animation Stand Out

• Focus on fluid, natural movement rather than overly exaggerated motion.

• Capture real-life moments – Ghibli often animates daily activities beautifully.

• Create a nostalgic atmosphere through colors, lighting, and motion.

• Use Neody IT resources for more animation guides and inspiration.

Best Platforms to Showcase Your Ghibli-Style Animations

Once you complete your animation, share it on:

• YouTube & Vimeo – Great for storytelling and exposure.

• Instagram & TikTok – Short animation clips gain high engagement.

• ArtStation & Behance – Perfect for professional portfolios.

• Neody IT – A great platform to feature your work and connect with other artists.

Conclusion

Learning how to animate in Ghibli style takes patience and practice, but with the right approach, you can bring the magic of Studio Ghibli to life. Focus on expressive movement, soft lighting, and detailed backgrounds to achieve that signature look. Keep refining your skills, study Ghibli frames, and most importantly, enjoy the process of creating heartfelt animations.

Have you tried animating in the Ghibli style? Share your experiences in the comments below!