Training Manual for Trainers: Motion Capture | CULTUURCONNECT

Objective
Guide trainers in delivering a session that equips participants with practical knowledge of motion capture technologies comparing professional-grade suits with accessible smartphone-based options and how to apply them in performance contexts. 

  1. Preparation (10 minutes)
  • Objective: Set up the environment for both high-end and low-end motion capture workflows. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Prepare and test all hardware and software for both systems: 
  1. High-end: Motion capture suit, base station, and calibration software. 
  1. Low-end: Smartphone with mocap app. 
  1. Print or share visual workflow diagrams for both setups. 
  1. Prepare short demo files showcasing both outputs. 

Checklist: 

  • All devices charged and connected. 
  • Software installed and updated. 
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections tested. 
  • Demo scenes pre-loaded. 

 

  1. Introduction to Motion Capture (10 minutes)
  • Objective: Introduce the concept of motion capture and contextualize its use in performing arts. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Explain motion capture as a performance recording method. 
  1. Contrast high-end (precision, full-body tracking) vs. low-end (accessibility, simplicity). 
  1. Share examples of both methods used in productions. 

Trainer Tip: Keep the comparison practical and highlight use cases where one might be preferable over the other. 

 

  1. Hands-On Practice – High-End Suit (20 minutes)
  • Objective: Let participants explore using a motion capture suit. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Demonstrate how to put on and calibrate the suit. 
  1. Guide participants through recording simple movement sequences. 
  1. Show real-time capture to animation software (e.g., Unity, Unreal, Blender). 

Trainer Tip: Emphasize common troubleshooting steps like recalibrating joints or avoiding magnetic interference. 

 

  1. Hands-On Practice – Smartphone Mocap (20 minutes)
  • Objective: Provide experience with app-based motion capture. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Demonstrate how to record motion using a smartphone app. 
  1. Have participants try capturing and exporting a short sequence. 
  1. Compare results with high-end suit footage. 

Trainer Tip: Encourage exploration and test different lighting conditions, phone positions, and gesture styles. 

 

  1. Creative Applications & Wrap-Up (10 minutes)
  • Objective: Inspire integration into artistic projects and conclude the session. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Discuss how each method can be adapted into live performance, animation, or interactive installations. 
  1. Share links to tools, platforms, and communities. 
  1. Invite participants to share thoughts or ask final questions. 

 

Post-Training Follow-Up 

  • Provide access to test footage and files. 
  • Share resource list (apps, suit vendors, tutorials). 
  • Encourage peer-sharing of outcomes using motion capture. 

Trainer Tip: Suggest participants document their setups and reflect on pros/cons in different contexts.