Procure your supplies:

a.) Device with a stop motion animation app downloaded on it (We are using an I-pod and are using Stop

Motion Studio, as a free download.)

b.) Tripod with device attachment

c.) Varied brush sizes (1/4 in flat brush will be invaluable)

d.) Sand (color(s) can be varied)

e.) Flat surface to work on (This should be inside. It can be on a table or poster. We are working on a plastic tablecloth.)

Step 1: Setting-up

a.) Set-up your device on your tripod with the device attachment. Neither the tripod nor the device should be moved throughout the filming process. If it is moved the image can be shaky or the illusion will be lost.

b.) Pour approximately 3 tablespoons of sand into the center of your field of view.

c.) Use your hands to shape the sand into a circle.

d.) Use the paint brush to manipulate the sand into an image.

Step 2: Create an Image With the Sand

a.) Use the paint brush to start to create your shape

b.) Do not worry about sand left behind. Small pieces of sand will add to the overall affect.

c) When you are ready to take a picture, make sure that you have nothing in the frame that you don't want included in your movie (like fingers or a paintbrush).

We are creating a fish. Watch the transformation take place.

Step 3: Photograph

a.) In the stop motion animation app, after each adjustment to your image, take a picture

Step 4: Add Additional Details

a.) Transform your image by adding details

Remember to photograph after each adjustment

Step 5: Take a Picture

Remember the more pictures taken and the smaller the changes between images, the smoother the video will be

Step 6: Adding Details

a.) Continue to add details to your image and take pictures as each change is made.

b.) Besides using the brush, you can use your hands and fingers

c.) Adding and removing portions of the sand can add to the details of your image. As you can see from the above image, indents give the appearance of gills.