Animation is a form of art that’s been around for centuries. Whilst the first animations were hand-drawn, today they’re done with computers. If you want to become an animator, there are several steps you need to take. In this article, we’ll cover the basics and discuss how you can turn your dream into reality!
Do Plenty Of Online Research
If you go online you can find plenty of blogs, specialist articles, and Youtube tutorials to help you.
This can give you an idea of what kinds of animations are out there and what people are doing with them (it’s more than just TV and film!). There are all sorts of different styles and techniques being used these days, and online research can help you familiarize yourself with them.
You can also use the internet to learn about the different software programs that are commonly used in animation. This is important because you’ll need to know which ones will work best for what you want to create. A visit to this URL confirms peoples’ desire to discover how much they can make as an animator and whether this career is growing. Folks also want to learn about the work environment and the different types of work schedules.
Get A Qualification
For this career, it’s important for you to finish high school. You could then study graphic design, fine art, digital media, or animation at university. Alternatively, you could take a one or two-year foundation course in art and design before going on to specialize in animation at a degree level. There are many universities across the country that offer these types of courses.
Some of the benefits of further education include:
- You’ll learn from experienced professionals
- You’ll have access to the latest industry-standard equipment
- You’ll make contacts that could help you find work after you graduate
Graduate degrees could help you secure senior-level positions that attract higher salaries. They could also open the door to teaching as a profession.
Consider The Alternatives
If going to university isn’t for you, there are other options. You could do an apprenticeship in graphic design or animation. This would give you the chance to learn on the job and get paid at the same time. You could also take short courses in animation or related subjects at a college or art school. These can be helpful if you’re already working in another area of design and want to move into animation.
Whichever route you decide to take, make sure you’re getting advice from someone with experience in the industry. They’ll be able to tell you what education and training is most relevant for the type of work you want to do.
Gain Work Experience
This is essential if you want to become an animator. You could start by interning with a small studio or working as a freelance assistant on independent projects. Once you’ve built up a portfolio of your work, you can start applying for jobs at larger studios. Many animators also continue to work on their own projects in their spare time to keep their skills sharp and stay up-to-date with new software and techniques.
The benefits of work experience include:
- Learning from experienced animators
- Gaining a better understanding of what the job entails
- Making industry contacts
- Building up your portfolio
Practice And Watch A Lot Of Animation
It’s wise to draw every day, for at least an hour. Experiment with different techniques and styles to find what you’re most comfortable with. As you draw, try to find inspiration in the work of other animators that you admire.
Watching a lot of animation will help you understand the medium and what’s possible within it. By studying the techniques of others, you can start to develop your own style.
Some General Suggestions
Here are some miscellaneous tips to help you:
- Join or create a group of like-minded people to collaborate with and draw inspiration from (e.g. an online community)
- Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences
- Stay up-to-date on the latest industry news
- Find a good mentor or teacher
- Experiment with animation software and create your own short films
- Draw inspiration from other forms of art, such as illustration, sculpture, and even dance
- Learn about the history of animation and the pioneers who helped shape it
These practical steps will set you on your journey to becoming an animator. Before you know it you’ll have a strong portfolio and will be looking for work. In time, you may have a successful career that provides you with both a steady income and personal satisfaction.