Career In Animation

Since animation is a competitive, constantly developing field, it can help to have a background in art. Regardless of what your specialty will be--computer animation, web animation, cell animation, 3D modeling and environment art, clay-model stop motion art, character animation art, or a game specialist--you will need to have a basic understanding of art. Each specialization requires the use of at least some artistic techniques:

Computer animator: needs all the skills of a traditional drawing/sketching animator and the ability to use software and hardware tools to digitize line drawings, etc.

Cell animation artist: needs excellent drawing and illustration skills and a decent exposure to 2D animation and compositing software.

3D animator: since they are trying to create realistic imagery on the computer, they need to know at least one of the many 3D modeling and animation packages (i.e. 3D Studio Max, Softimage, or Maya).

There are many possibilities for animators that most don't even consider. You will need to determine what, specifically, you are interested in, which includes video games, film effects, 3D, illustration, digital media, and more.

Similarly, you may be surprised to learn that there are many fields that require the skills of an experienced animator that you will have to choose from: architecture, forensics, product visualization, advertising, and aerospace to name a few. There are many opportunities in the animation field for people who gain both an education and an understanding of the artistic and the technical aspects involved in this industry.