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Job Title Investigated:
Animator
• 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.)
Everyday Tasks of the Animator
Production Process
• Pre-Production Phase • In the pre-production phase, the designs for everything from the characters, to the backgrounds, to the effects must be
completed and readied for production. Team members with computer animation careers in pre-production complete the following kinds of tasks:
• Design • Layout • Storyboarding • Tool development • Production Phase • Once the design for each element is complete, the production team can work their magic. They'll produce animated
sequences and add effects and textures. In the production phase, the team focuses on the following kinds of tasks: • Animation • Character rigging • Lighting • Modeling• Rendering • Texturing • Visual Effects • Post-Production Phase • The post-production team puts the finishing touches on the project. Workers who specialize in the post-production end of
animation complete the following kinds of tasks: • Compositing • Editing • Scanning
Experience needed.
• What qualifications and experience will employers look for?• To become an animator, you will need skills in drawing, modelling or using computer animation
packages. Some animators are self-taught, but many start by taking an animation or art-related course at college or university, to develop their skills before looking for work.
• Several colleges and universities offer foundation degrees, BTEC HNDs, degrees and postgraduate courses in animation. The most useful courses include practical skills and work placements.
• You could also get into the industry with qualifications in other relevant subjects such as:• illustration• graphic design• computer programming• model making or sculpture• 3-D design• multimedia design.• You would often start as a studio runner – you do not need qualifications to work in this role,
although in practice many people who start at this level are graduates. You could then progress to junior roles like storyboard assistant, digital painter , inbetweener or assistant animator.
• Employers always want to see proof of your talent and creativity, so you will need a ‘showreel’ DVD or online portfolio of your best animation work and ideas to show them.
• You could also show commitment to joining the industry by entering animation competitions and festivals, and sending short animated films or ideas to broadcasters.
Further Development
• What further training and development can I do?• Most of your training would be on the job, learning from more experienced animators.• You should keep up to date with developments in the animation industry throughout your career. It
will be useful to learn more software packages that are relevant to your job, for example:• 3ds Max• Flash• Maya• Action Script• Motionbuilder• Lightwave 3D• After Effects.• Many other packages are available, and some companies also create software to meet their own
needs. Your employer may organise some training courses for you, or you may be responsible for your own training and development.
• You can take short courses in various animation software packages and techniques at several film schools, universities and private training companies.
• With experience and advanced skills, you can progress from junior roles to become an animator, lead animator and animation director.
