Traditional animation, also known as cel animation, is a time-consuming process that involves drawing and painting each frame of a cartoon by hand. Animators first create a storyboard, which is a visual outline of the cartoon's plot and characters. They then create rough sketches of each scene, known as "keyframes," to establish the motion and timing of the animation. Next, they create more detailed drawings of each frame, which are then traced onto transparent sheets of celluloid, or "cels." The animators then paint the cels by hand, using gouache or acrylic paints, before photographing them in sequence to create the illusion of motion.
Modern animation, on the other hand, is typically created using computer software, which allows animators to create and manipulate images digitally. While some modern animators still use traditional techniques, such as hand-drawn sketches, the vast majority of animation today is created using digital tools. This allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in the animation process, as well as the ability to create more complex and detailed images. Additionally, modern animation often incorporates 3D modeling and animation techniques, which allow for greater realism and depth in the final product.