Animation Career: Job Description

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What's an Animation Career Like?

Many of the most beloved animated characters are complex. Animated heroes and heroines (with a few notable exceptions) need more than anvils and Acme rockets to develop their plotlines. Which is one reason why animators need more than drawing ability and technical skill to have successful animation careers. They need to be storytellers with a flair for the dramatic.

Animation has come a long way in the last few decades. It has applications from advertising to special effects to video games. Animation is not just for kids to enjoy after school or on Saturday mornings while eating sugary cereal. Whether online or on the big screen, animation is in high demand—which makes this a great time to consider an animation career.

Everyday Tasks in an Animation Career

While there is a high degree of variation in animation applications, there are some common tasks that animators in any field may complete in the course of a normal day's work:

• Drawing storyboards and creating models
• Designing an animated environment that includes backgrounds, sets and objects
• Designing characters
• Creating each frame
• Working out the timing of movements and making sure things meet the script and soundtrack requirements
• Using computer software, including Flash, Maya, Lightwave and others
• Working as part of a team
• Working with clients (developing concepts, pitching ideas, etc.)

Skills Needed

Artistic Ability – Creative thinking, understanding composition and the ability to draw are the cornerstones of an animation career. Whether you're creating storyboards or putting the finishing touches on a series of computer generated images, you'll need to have a good grasp on basic artistic skills.

Storytelling Ability – Even if you were never a member of the drama club, to be a good animator you need some theatrical ability. You need to be a good storyteller. This includes having a good sense of timing and pacing, and knowing how to get your characters to express themselves in a believable way. As an animator, you'll be responsible for representing characters' emotions—which means you need to understand character development, even if you're not the one onscreen.

Technical Skill / Software Knowledge – With the increased use of computer generated imagery (CGI) technology in the film industry—in both live action films and animated movies—animation careers are becoming more technical. You'll need training in various software programs that are common in the industry. In some animation jobs you may also find math and physics helpful, as well as a general knowledge of various computer operating systems.

Teamwork – The ability to work well with others is important in most careers, and an animation career is no exception. You not only need the ability to work with clients, but also the ability to function as a member of a team. While animation projects may involve many people, the end product needs to be consistent—as if produced by one person. This may involve following or giving direction, working to meet deadlines and communicating clearly and effectively with other team members and clients.

Is an Animation Career for You?

If you're looking for a job that will allow you to walk the line between art and technology, and throw in a little bit of drama as well, an animation career could be a great choice for you. With the growing demand for animation, there's no time like the present to get started.

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