Over the past few years, animation has grown widely with the rapid rise of technology in the entertainment industry. From being used sparsely just in the sci-fi section, it is now found in more expansive areas, i.e., from full-fledged movies to those in the business and education sectors.
The animation sector has grown exponentially, ranging from scriptwriting to post-production and gaining hits on videos. Keeping this in mind, there has been a steady increase in the demand for good animation professionals to keep pace with the growing opportunities.
There are numerous careers in animation one can have. Animation is when you can bring life into an object or character with the help of special effects, visual images, electronic tools, website graphics, recreations, and much more!
Today, we will explore the top careers in animation and discuss how you can become a successful animator. So, let us begin!
What is Animation & What does an Animator do?
Over the years, animation has allowed storytellers to tell stories in unique ways. The visceral worlds in animated movies can reignite artistry and the magic of stories no matter what age.
So, the simulation of movement produced by a series of pictures is called animation. It is a method of photographing models, images, drawings, etc., to create an illusion in the minds of people. Today, 3D animation is commonly used instead of traditional animation or 2D vector.
However, the everyday tasks of an animator are:
- Creating frames
- Designing characters
- Using computer software
- Drawing storyboards
- Developing an animated environment with objects and sets
- Working with clients
- Working with a team including actors, game designers, and directors
Being a professional in the field of animation, you can find work in various industries ranging from entertainment to advertising. For now, let us see some amazing careers in animation you can have!
Top careers in Animation
A career in animation can be rewarding if you have artistic talent and some proficiency in using animation tools and software. Thus, if you are interested in this career field, you might just want to know what career you can take up.
So, here are the top careers in animation. Take a look!
- Lighting Technician
A lighting technician is a design professional who manages the lighting equipment and software to satisfy the specific aesthetic requirements for movies, advertisements, videos, etc. These professionals create color keys for green screens and help develop simulations that add shadow and lighting to animated environments. Thus, you can work as a lighting technician with an associate degree in design or lighting technology.
- 3D Artist
A 3D artist is a design professional who develops 3D models of objects, characters, and the environment. They create three-dimensional graphic components and effects using modeling and animation software.
Moreover, 3D artists also perform research to create accurate representations of characters and objects in movies, advertisements, video games, and much more. They collaborate with creative designers and animators to develop storyboards, thereby guiding the animation workflows.
- Animator
The animators are the ones who draw and design animated components in the entertainment industry. They use computer software to produce animations for characters and backdrops of the scenes. Animators work in close connection with the writers, directors, artists, etc., to have an apt development of story and character plots.
- Video Game Designer
A video game designer is a computer programming and graphic design specialist who develops video games. These professionals create concept art for characters, build game environments, and assist in writing storylines for numerous games.
Interestingly, to become a videogame designer, all you need is a bachelor’s degree in computer science engineering or game design.
- Compositing Supervisor
A compositing supervisor incorporates visual effects in films. They assist the compositors in combining animation components like computer-generated images, live-action footage, and much more to create a cohesive moving image.
Compositing supervisors create schedules and workflows and ensure that the visual effects department meets their work deadlines.
- Art Director
An art director manages the sources and production of visual elements for the film, entertainment, and advertising industries. They develop style guides to assist artists and animators in designing characters, storylines, and other visual features. They also conduct reviews and approve final drafts after ensuring the client’s requirements. Moreover, they also act as a channel of communication between artists and producers to create a cohesive artistic vision.
Also Read: Top Unconventional Courses after Engineering
Tips for Successful Careers in Animation
Animation is a popular career choice that offers numerous job opportunities. Thus, if you are also planning to build a successful career in animation, these tips can help you differentiate yourself from your colleagues and accelerate your professional growth.
- Develop Soft Skills
Besides technical and artistic abilities, animators also require a range of soft skills to effectively carry out the desired responsibilities. In addition, animators generally have strong communication skills, time-management skills, and team spirit to seamlessly work with other animators, actors, directors, and digital artists.
Animation can be time-consuming, and it may even take weeks to create a short animated sequence. So, skills like patience and perseverance can help animators carry out tasks efficiently without feeling discouraged or demotivated.
- Practice Drawing
Irrespective of your skill levels, regularly sketching can help you improve your drawing and painting skills. Try different drawing techniques like perspective, color design, composition, etc.
Besides all this, experiments using oil paints and water colors with various objects like cartoons, animals, plants, etc., can also enhance your drawing skills and help you become good at Animation.
- Enhance Observational Skills
To have a successful career in animation, you will need strong observational skills to replicate the details. Thus, paying attention to minute details can play a crucial role in your work as an animator.
Notice people’s facial expressions, how they talk, walk, move, etc. Along with this, pay attention to how objects move around you. For instance, feel how the wind blows, how the waves crash onto the shore, etc.
Try to sketch people and such natural movements and witness how your observational skills enhance!
- Improve your Software Skills
Successful and efficient animators are usually experts in both traditional and digital drawing. Thus, you can improve your digital sketching competence by using the right software tools. Some of the standard animation software include:
- After Effects
- 3D Studio Max
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Procreate
- Maya
It is essential to note that you can make use of these software programmes as they have a similar interface. So, once you understand how to use any of these programmes, it will be easier to operate others. Therefore, choose the right software tools that suit your working style and focus on improving your drawing and animation skills.
- Stay Updated on Industry Trends
Animation is a dynamic industry, and new technology/ software solutions are regularly available for animators. Thus, staying up to date on the latest developments in the field can enhance and optimize your work performance.
You can read animation blogs, journals, and magazines and attend seminars, webinars, conferences etc., to stay updated. Alternatively, you can also participate in online communities that help you connect with other animators and gain industry insights.
It’s Time to Animate & Impress!
If you are creative enough and wish to explore the entertainment industry, then animation must be your go-to field. There are numerous careers in animations for you to explore. Each career offers something new and exciting.
In order to get started as an animator, you need to assimilate the skills mentioned above. Along with this, you might also need to have a strong network and updated knowledge of the field.
Animation is a fulfilling and rewarding field. You can gain a lot from it, provided you undergo proper training and education. So, what are you waiting for? Explore different careers in animation and get on with your creative journey!
