What Training Do You Need to Become an Animator?

Animators have gained increasing prominence in terms of both artistic and commercial success. As technology has advanced, animators have developed skills and tools that enable them to achieve a measure of realism that was not possible prior to the advent of the personal computer. Some animators, however, still use pen-and-ink methods to create their magic. Animators average about $45,000 a year, but can make more than that, depending upon their specialties.

Basics

Individuals interested in an animation career will need a solid foundation in basic drawing skills, as well as color design and computer applications. Having a solid knowledge of Adobe Photoshop is helpful as well. The basic skills can be learned either through classroom education, as well as digital self-study courses and hands-on training.

Types

Animation no longer consists solely of cartoons. There are computer animators, who use 3-dimensional images to create animation, as well as stop-motion animators, who use clay or plastic models to create the illusion of movement. Training in either film or computer generation is useful; such specialized training can usually be obtained through a school dedicated to animation and graphic design. Computer animation studies are available at many colleges, as well as specialized technical schools, such as Regent University's School of the Arts, which offers an in-depth training program in all aspects of animation.

Considerations

Internship training can usually be had at animation studios, and while there is no pay involved, the experience gained can be useful later on in a career. In addition, learning to use such computer programs as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and 3-D Studio Max will give a solid foundation for animation studies.

There are numerous self-study guides which can assist in learning these programs, as well as online courses. Toon Boom Animation offers instructions in its various software products, in either an all-inclusive 10-day course, or within individual modules. (See Resources)

Schools

In addition to basic animation knowledge, animators should be able to draw both 2-D and 3-D animation. With 3-D animation, a solid background in 3-D graphic design is very useful. In addition, video and special effects are also relevant areas that should be examined.

Some of the schools which offer degrees in animation include Full Sail University and Academy of Art University, both of which offer online studies. Technical art institutes such as DeVry University also offer instruction in 2-D and 3-D animation. Some schools will also offer short-term certification within the field of animation.

Potential

The opportunities for animators include working with film studios, as well as with commercial production companies. In addition, computer game designers are always looking for animators skilled with 3-dimensional graphics. Online and print media still seek animators for a variety of cartoon work, and graphic novels rely heavily upon animators and illustrators.

References

• Education Center Online: How to Become an Animator
• Animator Salary: How to Become an Animator
• Education Portal: Animator: Required Education For a Career in Animation
• American Motion Picture Society: Disney's Snow White: The Story Behind the Picture
• Guide to Online Schools: Computer Animation Degree Online
• Meri News: Basic Skills Required to be an Animator

Resources

• Toon Boom Animation