How to Become an Animator Today

Are you an aspiring animator dreaming of becoming a professional in the field? To be successful, you need to stay up to date on the latest industry trends in order to develop your skills and knowledge. Today, animation is growing rapidly and is gaining a huge audience due to its technological advances. This means that there are a lot of opportunities in this growing field.

Here are the five steps you can take to become an animator today.

1. Learn the Fundamentals of Animation

A great start for anyone wanting to become an animator is to learn the fundamentals of the craft. The basics of animation include everything from sketching and studying poses and images to mastering techniques like keyframing, motion capture, and rotoscoping. Knowing how to make a simple storyboard, create a rough animation sketch, and provide basic characters with facial expressions and movement are core skills to have. Understanding the principles of animation, such as squash and stretch, anticipation, and exaggeration, will help you bring your ideas to life. Not only will you have to be familiar with animation principles, but also software such as Adobe After Effects, Adobe Flash, and Autodesk Maya.

2. Complete a Postsecondary Program

While there are no specific degree requirements to become a professional animator, some certification or schooling can give you a stronger foundation. Some popular animation programs at the postsecondary level include bachelors degrees in animation, digital arts, and game design as well as animation certificates. These programs offer an education in key animation and design principles, media, science story development, and softwares used in production. In addition to the traditional animation programs, there are also online courses that specialize in motion graphics, character design, and 3D animation.

3. Develop a Reel/Portfolio

When it comes to showcasing your work, having an online portfolio and/or demo reel is crucial. This is the best way to show employers and clients who you are as an animator. Put together your best pieces of work that illustrate your animation style, skills, and personality. Remember to keep it updated and add any relevant artwork or projects to show the breadth of your experience. Additionally, you can create an animation portfolio or website that will highlight your best work and give employers an overview of your style of animation.

4. Build Networks and Gain Experience

Getting your name out there and building your networking contacts can help you find jobs or internships easier. To get noticed, attend animation festivals, conventions, or industry events to learn more about the industry and network with people in the field. You can also volunteer or intern for a studio to gain valuable hands-on experience and make connections.

5. Stay Updated on AI Technology

With the advancements of artificial intelligence (AI), it’s important for animators to stay updated on new technology. AI has the potential to greatly impact the industry, offering new opportunities and challenges. Animators now must learn to work with AI algorithms and tools in order to create more realistic and complex animations. Learning skills related to machine learning, natural language processing, and data science can give you a competitive edge and make you a better animator in the long run.

Conclusion

If you’re considering a career as an animator, keep in mind that it’s a competitive market and having a strong knowledge of fundamental principles and software and a portfolio of work will help you stand out from the rest. Additionally, staying informed on the latest technology trends in AI will open up more opportunities and improve your craft. With the right steps and tools, you will be on your way to becoming a successful animator in no time.