Job description
An animator produces multiple images called frames. When sequenced together rapidly, these frames create an illusion of movement known as animation.
Animators tend to work in 2D animation, 3D model making animation, or computer-generated animation. Computer-generated animation features strongly in motion pictures (to create special effects or an animated film in its own right), as well as in aspects of television work, the internet and the computer games industry.
The basic skill of animation still relies heavily on the animator's artistic ability, but there is a growing need for animators to be familiar with technical computer packages.
Typical work activities
Producing animation involves a number of stages including generating ideas, building models and rigging lighting. Computer animation uses software known as CGI (computer-generated imagery)
Tasks typically involve:
liaising with clients and developing animation from their concepts;
creating storyboards that depict the script and narrative;
drawing in 2D to create sketches, artwork or illustrations;
designing models, backgrounds, sets, characters, objects and the animation environment;
using a range of materials, including modelling clay, plaster, oil paints, watercolours and acrylics;
developing the timing and pace of a character's or object's movements during the sequence of images (called the animatic) and ensuring they follow the soundtrack and audio requirements;
using technical software packages, such as Flash, 3d studio max, Maya, Lightwave, Softimage and Cinema 4D;
building up accurate, detailed frame-by-frame visuals;
recording dialogue and working with editors to composite the various layers of animation (backgrounds, special effects, characters and graphics) in order to produce the finished piece;
working to production deadlines and meeting clients' commercial requirements;
teamworking as part of a broader production network, which might include liaising with printers, copywriters, photographers, designers, account executives, website designers or marketing specialists;
dealing with diverse business cultures, delivering presentations and finding funding.
Much of the work involves pitching and being proactive in selling your ideas and work to prospective customers and clients. This applies across the board, whether you are self-employed, working freelance or employed within a business.
Entry requirements
Although this area of work is open to all graduates and Diplomates, the following degree/foundation degree subjects are particularly relevant:
animation;
graphic design/illustration;
3-D design;
art and design;
model making or sculpture;
design for moving image;
spatial design;
film and video;
multimedia;
electrical engineering;
computer-aided engineering.
A foundation degree with a 2D design content may also be useful.
Entry without a higher education qualification is unusual, but not impossible. Exceptions may be made for very talented candidates.
Many animators consider that having an artistic background is more important than competence with IT.
Though not essential, a relevant postgraduate qualification in animation may enhance your employability. Courses include the two-year MA Animation at the Royal College of Art , the two-year MA Animation Direct at The National Film and Television School , and the one-year (30-week) Postgraduate Diploma in Character Animation at Central Saint Martins . Other postgraduate courses can be found on the Skillset (Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries) website.
Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:
talent - in the form of a show reel or portfolio;
networking skills and commitment to projects through previous work experience;
an engagement with the industry from submitting work to festivals and competitions;
the flexibility to switch between several projects at once.
Animation is a competitive industry. If you are looking for work in the industry you must have a show reel. This is your 'calling card' to show to production companies or animation commissioners in advertising agencies, music companies or television companies. It is acceptable practice to send show reels out speculatively, although it is better to target particular projects. Take time to ensure your show reel is short and punchy as companies are likely to be drawn in during the first five seconds and will probably have made a decision after one minute of film
Graduates may consider applying for a residency in order to raise their profile, make new contacts and build a portfolio. Residencies provide the opportunity to work as an ‘artist-in-residence’ and have access to facilities and a working environment that are conducive to creative work. Graduates either pursue their own work or can work with industry professionals on specific projects. Residencies can last from two weeks to several months.
The Skillset Screen Academy Wales offers residencies, as do a number of other universities, including the London College of Communication . The British Council and regional film offices are good sources for researching residencies. Graduates are also recommended to send their films to the British Council, where their arts department may promote them at festivals overseas.
You may find the International Animated Film Association (ASIFA) and Cartoon (European Association of Animation Film) helpful in establishing contacts. It is also worthwhile contacting your local media development agency to find out about workshops, support and networking opportunities. Skillset acts as an umbrella information and advice service for the audio visual industry.
Career development
Most animators begin as studio runners and then progress to junior animation roles.
In 2D animation, you may begin work as an 'inbetweener', then progress to key framer. 3D animation has a more hierarchical structure: starting as a junior animator, with progression to senior animator after a few years' experience and finally design manager or art director.
Senior roles involve more paperwork, managing staff and generating new ideas. Career progression is usually mostly through freelance work, which develops the animator's reputation, and this is likely to ensure a regular supply of work as well as more senior responsibilities.
The UK is particularly good for 'stop motion' animation and children's animation, and has a thriving computer games industry. However, animation is a global industry and you may have to move abroad if you wish to specialise in a particular type of animation. Much 2D animation is done in the Far East, for example. Animators are increasingly looking for work overseas, as well as in the UK, in order to maximise their client base.
In terms of development, versatility is the key and if you can work with puppets, models and drawn and computer-generated animation, you may find more options open to you.
Another progression route for animators is to go into teaching or lecturing.
Typical employers
Although a small percentage of jobs can be found within the large animation studios and smaller production companies, most animators work freelance.
According to Skillset: The Sector Skills Council for Creative Media , most of the money spent on animation is associated with the advertising industry and competition for commissions is fierce. The UK also leads the world in the production of pre-school storytelling and design, and this area continues to attract investors, ensuring the availability of work. Other areas of work include:
feature films;
children's programmes;
games;
music promos;
titles and idents;
CD-Roms;
adult comedy and drama.
The global perspective is also worth considering - some of the larger US companies offer career opportunities and internships.
Many animators work as independent film makers, producing their own short films and trying to win commissions from animation commissioners at Channel 4 Television , the BBC (in particular BBC2), the web or other related media. Getting a short film broadcast could lead to a commission for a short series, a longer film, or interest from music company advertising agencies (for pop videos) or commercial and business ventures.
Sources of vacancies
Search graduate jobs on this site.
Design Week
Mad
Datascope
OPM Jobs
Animation Magazine
Animated People
Association of Illustrators (AOI)
Chinwag Jobs
Media Bugs
Other useful directories and sources of agents include:
Creative Handbook
The Knowledge
Design & Art Direction (D&AD)
Animation Industry Database
The Marketing Manager's Yearbook
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