3 answers
Darrell
Student
3
Questions
Asked
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Is pursuing an animation career still worth it?
I’ve been hearing a lot of bad stuff going on in the animation industry regarding the big studios and such (ex: CN, Nickelodeon, Disney, etc). and it’s making me have second thoughts on pursuing my career into animation as I want to make a difference in the industry but with things like this going on, I don’t know at this point. I want to do screenwriting but still wants to be in the animation industry even if I’m not an animator. Is it worth doing another career in the animation industry at this time?
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3 answers
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Pursuing a career in animation can still be a fulfilling and worthwhile path, but it's important to be aware of the challenges and changes in the industry. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision:
1. **Passion and Persistence:** If you have a deep passion for animation and storytelling, don't let industry challenges deter you. Many successful professionals in animation faced obstacles but persevered due to their love for the craft.
2. **Diverse Roles:** The animation industry offers a wide range of roles beyond animation itself, including screenwriting, storyboarding, voice acting, sound design, and more. If you're interested in screenwriting, there are opportunities to contribute to animated projects without being an animator.
3. **Changing Landscape:** The animation industry has evolved, and there are more opportunities than ever before, especially with the growth of streaming platforms and independent studios. These changes have opened doors for new voices and creators.
4. **Networking:** Building a strong network can be invaluable in any industry. Connect with professionals in the animation field, attend industry events, and seek out mentors who can guide you through your career.
5. **Independence:** With tools like animation software and online platforms, you have the opportunity to create your own animations and stories independently, even if you face challenges with major studios.
6. **Social Impact:** If your goal is to make a positive impact on the animation industry, your passion for change can drive meaningful initiatives and advocate for diversity, inclusion, and better working conditions.
7. **Stay Informed:** Keep up with industry news and stay informed about the latest developments. This knowledge will help you navigate the industry more effectively.
8. **Adaptability:** Be adaptable and open to new opportunities and experiences within the animation field. Sometimes, unexpected roles or projects can lead to exciting career paths.
9. **Balance Expectations:** Understand that the animation industry, like any other, has its ups and downs. Not every project will align with your goals, but each experience can contribute to your growth as a professional.
10. **Continuous Learning:** Invest in your skills and knowledge. Whether it's animation techniques, screenwriting, or industry trends, continuous learning will make you more valuable in the field.
While there are challenges in the animation industry, your passion, dedication, and desire to make a difference can be powerful forces for positive change. Pursuing a career in animation, especially in roles like screenwriting, can still offer opportunities to contribute to the art form and tell impactful stories. Ultimately, your decision should align with your passion and long-term career goals. If animation is where your heart lies, consider exploring the various avenues within the industry to find a path that suits your aspirations.
1. **Passion and Persistence:** If you have a deep passion for animation and storytelling, don't let industry challenges deter you. Many successful professionals in animation faced obstacles but persevered due to their love for the craft.
2. **Diverse Roles:** The animation industry offers a wide range of roles beyond animation itself, including screenwriting, storyboarding, voice acting, sound design, and more. If you're interested in screenwriting, there are opportunities to contribute to animated projects without being an animator.
3. **Changing Landscape:** The animation industry has evolved, and there are more opportunities than ever before, especially with the growth of streaming platforms and independent studios. These changes have opened doors for new voices and creators.
4. **Networking:** Building a strong network can be invaluable in any industry. Connect with professionals in the animation field, attend industry events, and seek out mentors who can guide you through your career.
5. **Independence:** With tools like animation software and online platforms, you have the opportunity to create your own animations and stories independently, even if you face challenges with major studios.
6. **Social Impact:** If your goal is to make a positive impact on the animation industry, your passion for change can drive meaningful initiatives and advocate for diversity, inclusion, and better working conditions.
7. **Stay Informed:** Keep up with industry news and stay informed about the latest developments. This knowledge will help you navigate the industry more effectively.
8. **Adaptability:** Be adaptable and open to new opportunities and experiences within the animation field. Sometimes, unexpected roles or projects can lead to exciting career paths.
9. **Balance Expectations:** Understand that the animation industry, like any other, has its ups and downs. Not every project will align with your goals, but each experience can contribute to your growth as a professional.
10. **Continuous Learning:** Invest in your skills and knowledge. Whether it's animation techniques, screenwriting, or industry trends, continuous learning will make you more valuable in the field.
While there are challenges in the animation industry, your passion, dedication, and desire to make a difference can be powerful forces for positive change. Pursuing a career in animation, especially in roles like screenwriting, can still offer opportunities to contribute to the art form and tell impactful stories. Ultimately, your decision should align with your passion and long-term career goals. If animation is where your heart lies, consider exploring the various avenues within the industry to find a path that suits your aspirations.
Thank you, Jacob for the advice.
Darrell
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Darrell !
I can tell by your question that you are serious about this career path and I would like to give you some advice. My initial suggestion would be to enroll in a college that offers both screenwriting or playwriting and animation courses. Learn AI graphics, too. You don't have to give your two interests up.
The reason I say this is with education and working on projects, eventually when you discover the right time, you can open your own production company while you also write the screenplays when you can. I highly suggest going through for at least a Bachelors Degree program in an academic setting as that is where you'll meet very many contacts in your fields of interest. After some time, you can decide what to major in, but you must become completely familiar with all aspects of both types of work.
I know that one of the trends that is happening in your favor is that many people who have worked in the industry are now relocated and working in various places in the U.S. and not where the film industry has traditionally been located. So you can start something in your own location. So, my answer for you has to do with continuing with the two types of work that you love, increase in your skill and knowledge of those talents, do not give up. Go for the Bachelors degree and view the work as your creation, not the studio's. Also create a channel for your animation work on a platform on line. You will be surprised at the evolution of your own personal career.
This will take some time and financial investment as does starting any type of business but it will be well worth it.
I can tell by your question that you are serious about this career path and I would like to give you some advice. My initial suggestion would be to enroll in a college that offers both screenwriting or playwriting and animation courses. Learn AI graphics, too. You don't have to give your two interests up.
The reason I say this is with education and working on projects, eventually when you discover the right time, you can open your own production company while you also write the screenplays when you can. I highly suggest going through for at least a Bachelors Degree program in an academic setting as that is where you'll meet very many contacts in your fields of interest. After some time, you can decide what to major in, but you must become completely familiar with all aspects of both types of work.
I know that one of the trends that is happening in your favor is that many people who have worked in the industry are now relocated and working in various places in the U.S. and not where the film industry has traditionally been located. So you can start something in your own location. So, my answer for you has to do with continuing with the two types of work that you love, increase in your skill and knowledge of those talents, do not give up. Go for the Bachelors degree and view the work as your creation, not the studio's. Also create a channel for your animation work on a platform on line. You will be surprised at the evolution of your own personal career.
This will take some time and financial investment as does starting any type of business but it will be well worth it.
Jiadi Tang
Animation
17
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Jiadi’s Answer
Hey Darrel,
There are alternative avenues for practicing animation in the industry beyond working in narrative animation studios. From my personal experience, the advertising industry stands out as a great option for you. Ads frequently incorporate more animation and motion graphics compared to TV or film. Consequently, there are ample opportunities for motion designer positions, particularly in bustling cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
Furthermore, freelance projects, marketing agencies, and creative studios often seek animators for brand campaigns, explainer videos, and digital content creation. These roles provide a platform to experiment with various styles and techniques while building a diverse portfolio. Exploring these paths can also lead to valuable industry connections and new opportunities.
There are alternative avenues for practicing animation in the industry beyond working in narrative animation studios. From my personal experience, the advertising industry stands out as a great option for you. Ads frequently incorporate more animation and motion graphics compared to TV or film. Consequently, there are ample opportunities for motion designer positions, particularly in bustling cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
Furthermore, freelance projects, marketing agencies, and creative studios often seek animators for brand campaigns, explainer videos, and digital content creation. These roles provide a platform to experiment with various styles and techniques while building a diverse portfolio. Exploring these paths can also lead to valuable industry connections and new opportunities.