Animators are in charge of making art move. Video games, commercials, television shows, movies, and websites have all featured their work. The majority of an animator’s work is done on a computer, with complex and technical computer programs. If you want to be an animator, there are a lot of steps to take, but with the right artistic skills and determination, you can break into the industry.
Anyone interested in becoming an animator must be a good artist as well as computer savvy. Animators must be able to work as part of a team, communicate effectively, and lead others. They must be able to work long, stressful shifts in a high-pressure environment. It takes more than just being a good artist to succeed in animation; anyone interested in the field must be dedicated and willing to put in the extra effort.
To become an animator, you must first complete a design and animation degree or certificate program. These courses are available at both technical and traditional colleges. Students will learn how to turn two-dimensional (2-D) drawings on paper into three-dimensional (3-D) characters and objects in a computer program, as well as how to make those 3-D renditions move and interact with each other and the computer user, while attending the program. The student will be able to plot out and design complex animation sequences the time he or she graduates.
Students will begin building a portfolio to showcase their best work during their college years. If you want to work as an animator, you’ll need a strong portfolio. A portfolio will contain the student’s artwork, storyboards, and animated pieces. It is critical that students work hard during their college years in order to have the best possible work to include in their portfolios. Outside of college, students can create portfolio work.
Many colleges offer internship programs that can assist students in gaining experience in the animation industry. Students will have the opportunity to work in the animation industry during this internship, gaining valuable real-world experience. Some of these internships may lead to job offers in the future. Colleges may also offer a job placement program to assist students in finding work in the animation industry after they graduate.
Animators are needed in a variety of fields. Students typically begin their careers in an entry-level position and work their way up from there. Some animators are employed a company, while others work as freelancers for whomever has hired their services. Because there are so many people who want to be animators, it can be a highly competitive field. A new animator can break into the animation field working hard, constantly developing their skills, and staying up to date on software and industry developments.