What type of animation technique involves layering images and frames?

The technique of layering images and frames is a fundamental characteristic of 2D animation. In 2D animation, artists create the illusion of movement by displaying a series of individual frames, each slightly different from the last. These frames are stacked, or layered, ensuring that backgrounds, characters, and other elements can be manipulated independently. This allows for a smooth transition and movement across various scenes while keeping the depth and perspective intact.

In contrast, while 3D animation indeed involves layering, it typically utilizes digital models and rendering techniques that create a more complex visual output, focusing on three-dimensional spaces and objects. Stop motion animation employs physical objects that are photographed frame by frame to create motion, rather than layering digital images. Flash animation primarily utilizes vector graphics and timelines to animate layered images, but it is distinct from traditional 2D animation methodologies in its execution and tools. Thus, the essence of layering frames most accurately aligns with the principles and practices found in 2D animation.