A freelance animator provides animation services to whoever has hired him for a specific project. After the project is finished, the animator will move on to another project, this time for a different client. Freelance animation is a great option for someone who enjoys animation but isn’t sure where they want to focus their efforts. A freelance animator can work on a movie for part of the year, a commercial or website for a few weeks, and then several months with an animation team putting together a new video game. There are always a lot of options, and a successful freelancer can pick and choose which projects he wants to work on.
Not everyone is qualified to work as a freelance animation artist. Animators must be familiar with all of the major types of animation software in addition to having exceptional artistic ability. They must be able to work as part of a team, effectively communicate their ideas, and be willing to both lead and follow others’ directions. It takes a great deal of flexibility and the ability to shift gears quickly, switching from one project to another.
To begin working as a freelance animator, you should first obtain a degree or certificate in design and animation or a related field from a college. A professional education can teach you about the animation business, how to use computers and animation software, and help you gain a lot of hands-on experience in the field. Any experience you can gain while in college, whether through internships, labs, or other means, will be invaluable once you begin your career.
Make the most of your college experience honing your drawing, planning, and animation skills. Participate in any extracurricular activities and take advantage of any opportunities to collaborate on larger projects with other students. Experiment, collaborate, and maximize your educational opportunities.
You’ll need to build a portfolio before you start showcasing your work as a freelance animator. All of your best work should be included in your portfolio. This is what potential clients will look at before deciding whether or not to hire you. Purchase a domain name and host your portfolio on your own professional website if possible. This will make it simple for people to find your work.
Make some business contacts. Become a part of the animation industry. Attend trade shows, interact with freelance animators on websites, and get to know a few successful independent animators. These connections could be the key to your freelance success. Make it clear what services you can provide and that you are seeking employment.
Finding work is the most difficult aspect of starting a freelance animation career. There are many freelance animators looking for work as well. There are several websites that, for a fee, assist freelancers in finding clients looking for work. Another option is to approach companies directly and offer your services, which works best after you’ve gained some experience. Attending local business showcases may also help you find clients, depending on your location.
Freelance animation is a thrilling profession, but it is also dangerous. Even the best freelancers can go months without working. Even if you’re in the middle of another project, it’s important to keep promoting yourself because the project will eventually end and you’ll need to find new work. Someone with a lot of determination, the ability to self-motivate, and a desire to be their own boss has a good chance of succeeding in freelance animation.