Animation Principles - Universal Reference Disney's 12 principles work at every skill level. Here's each principle with scalable depth. 1. Squash and Stretch Core idea: Objects deform to show motion and impact. Beginner: Ball flattens when it hits ground. Advanced: Volume must remain constant. Facial animation uses micro-squash for expression. Key insight: Even "rigid" objects can use the principle through camera shake or motion blur. 2. Anticipation Core idea: Prepare the viewer for action. Beginner: Crouch before jump. Advanced: Anticipation size controls audience expectation. Absence creat…