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How can I break into the Animation Industry?
I'm a junior in high school and I want to find a job working in animating but I'm not sure where to start.
7 answers
Updated
Lizz’s Answer
Hi Weitao,
Everyone who has already answered has given some amazing advice. I want to add to what they have already said.
What about animation is drawing you to animation? Because, there are so many parts to making great animation. It's not only technique and skills, it's also a bit of passion and looking outside the box. There are those who love creating captivating stories with characters that have involved backstories. There are those who love designing the environment in which those characters live. Or those who design the characters themselves. Then there are the individuals who find the best part is figuring out how those characters should move and interact with each other. And then the people behind the scenes that make all that seem seamless. You don't have to know which place you fit yet, but know that there are more jobs in animation than animator.
I'm a person who likes to ask lots of questions, and researching is kinda my jam. So, ask yourself a bunch of questions.
Do you like a specific show? Of feature animation? Or video game? What's the style? What do you think about when you see an animation that makes you want to break into an industry for it? Look at the credits of a show/video game/feature. All those people made that. It's pretty cool. But there is also a bunch of information you can find in those credits. What studio/studios worked on that project? Is that what you want to make? Look up those studios. See what else they've worked on. And keep on watching animation.
You don't have to go to a fancy art school to get the education you need to be in the animation industry. But I'm not going to lie and say it doesn't help. There are some connections at an art school that are impossible to get by watching a bunch of tutorials. (We watched tutorials in art school too). If an art school is out of the question, which I will be honest and tell you I could not afford to go to my alma mater these days, there are a few ways to learn through online animation schools or courses, and those schools and courses usually have forums to connect with your fellow classmates. Those classmates are an invaluable resource.
Speaking of classmates, do any of your classmates/friends now have an interest in the animation industry? See if you can team up with them, maybe even work on a project together. Do you take an art class? Ask your art teacher if they know anyone they can introduce you to in the industry. You never know until you ask.
Happy creating!
Everyone who has already answered has given some amazing advice. I want to add to what they have already said.
What about animation is drawing you to animation? Because, there are so many parts to making great animation. It's not only technique and skills, it's also a bit of passion and looking outside the box. There are those who love creating captivating stories with characters that have involved backstories. There are those who love designing the environment in which those characters live. Or those who design the characters themselves. Then there are the individuals who find the best part is figuring out how those characters should move and interact with each other. And then the people behind the scenes that make all that seem seamless. You don't have to know which place you fit yet, but know that there are more jobs in animation than animator.
I'm a person who likes to ask lots of questions, and researching is kinda my jam. So, ask yourself a bunch of questions.
Do you like a specific show? Of feature animation? Or video game? What's the style? What do you think about when you see an animation that makes you want to break into an industry for it? Look at the credits of a show/video game/feature. All those people made that. It's pretty cool. But there is also a bunch of information you can find in those credits. What studio/studios worked on that project? Is that what you want to make? Look up those studios. See what else they've worked on. And keep on watching animation.
You don't have to go to a fancy art school to get the education you need to be in the animation industry. But I'm not going to lie and say it doesn't help. There are some connections at an art school that are impossible to get by watching a bunch of tutorials. (We watched tutorials in art school too). If an art school is out of the question, which I will be honest and tell you I could not afford to go to my alma mater these days, there are a few ways to learn through online animation schools or courses, and those schools and courses usually have forums to connect with your fellow classmates. Those classmates are an invaluable resource.
Speaking of classmates, do any of your classmates/friends now have an interest in the animation industry? See if you can team up with them, maybe even work on a project together. Do you take an art class? Ask your art teacher if they know anyone they can introduce you to in the industry. You never know until you ask.
Happy creating!
Updated
Meghan’s Answer
Hii Weitao,
I am about to graduate with my degree in 3D animation and I can tell you I had the same question about how to break into the industry for a while.
For me it was hard to find out where I wanted to go with my degree, I did not know whether I wanted to lean more to games or to movies. But I can tell you that you can honestly do both and so much more!
Tips to break in:
1. For me, in order to really be able to get out there I started taking classes and watching tutorials by famous animators that I liked and looked up too, that helped me to get an understand in what I need to work on in my abilities.
2. Then I began practicing, didn't matter if it was simple designs or props, or complex environments. I took the time and practiced and made stuff I wanted for fun! This allowed me to get an idea of how to master my programs and what to expect when I start working in the industry.
3. Lastly, I have been putting my best art work pieces out there for the internet to see, this allows others to see the work I have done and what I am able to accomplish.
If you are really wanting to break out into the industry full force I would also suggest a killer portfolio! Added pieces that make you stand out from others and show that you have a voice and a unique talent!
Some ideas for what to add could be..
1. Art pieces in your style showing who you are
2. Concept designs for characters or models/props
3. Colorful pieces and black and grey art work to show your range in colors
4. Backgrounds or even layouts for story shots, those can compel emotions and make people feel something about the piece.
5. Lastly, any animation scenes you do, put those in to show what you are able to do!
I hope this helps you out and I hope you are able to break into the industry full force! You got this and the industry will be lucky to have you in it!!
Best of luck,
Meghan J.
I am about to graduate with my degree in 3D animation and I can tell you I had the same question about how to break into the industry for a while.
For me it was hard to find out where I wanted to go with my degree, I did not know whether I wanted to lean more to games or to movies. But I can tell you that you can honestly do both and so much more!
Tips to break in:
1. For me, in order to really be able to get out there I started taking classes and watching tutorials by famous animators that I liked and looked up too, that helped me to get an understand in what I need to work on in my abilities.
2. Then I began practicing, didn't matter if it was simple designs or props, or complex environments. I took the time and practiced and made stuff I wanted for fun! This allowed me to get an idea of how to master my programs and what to expect when I start working in the industry.
3. Lastly, I have been putting my best art work pieces out there for the internet to see, this allows others to see the work I have done and what I am able to accomplish.
If you are really wanting to break out into the industry full force I would also suggest a killer portfolio! Added pieces that make you stand out from others and show that you have a voice and a unique talent!
Some ideas for what to add could be..
1. Art pieces in your style showing who you are
2. Concept designs for characters or models/props
3. Colorful pieces and black and grey art work to show your range in colors
4. Backgrounds or even layouts for story shots, those can compel emotions and make people feel something about the piece.
5. Lastly, any animation scenes you do, put those in to show what you are able to do!
I hope this helps you out and I hope you are able to break into the industry full force! You got this and the industry will be lucky to have you in it!!
Best of luck,
Meghan J.
Updated
Ted’s Answer
Hi Weitao,
Are you interested in Hand Drawn animation, (flat 2 dimensional) or 3D animation ( animating digital puppets)?
If you are interested in 3D animation and have access to a computer, you can download a powerful applicatioin called "Blender" (https://www.blender.org/) for FREE! There are tutorials on their site, and all over youtube. Play around in Blender and see what you like. It is a fun place to experiment, and if you are comfortable creating animations in Blender, it is easier to move into more industry standard animation applications like Maya.
If you want to go a step further, and video game animation interests you, you can download the unreal editor and engine for FREE (https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US/unreal-engine-5) and with their tutorial help, you can import your blender characters and animations into the Unreal engine and play them like a video game character. This would be very helpful knowledge to someone who would eventually want to earn a living as a gameplay animator.
Good luck!
Are you interested in Hand Drawn animation, (flat 2 dimensional) or 3D animation ( animating digital puppets)?
If you are interested in 3D animation and have access to a computer, you can download a powerful applicatioin called "Blender" (https://www.blender.org/) for FREE! There are tutorials on their site, and all over youtube. Play around in Blender and see what you like. It is a fun place to experiment, and if you are comfortable creating animations in Blender, it is easier to move into more industry standard animation applications like Maya.
If you want to go a step further, and video game animation interests you, you can download the unreal editor and engine for FREE (https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US/unreal-engine-5) and with their tutorial help, you can import your blender characters and animations into the Unreal engine and play them like a video game character. This would be very helpful knowledge to someone who would eventually want to earn a living as a gameplay animator.
Good luck!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Weitao
Updated
Pavida’s Answer
Hi Weitao,
If you've heard of this quote "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity", I think it is pretty similar to how you can break into the animation industry. You have to maximize:
1) Preparation
- You need the skill to do the job.
- Learn art and animation, either by attending school or learning the craft from online/books. In my opinion, art school is not necessary but the knowledge and skills are, and there are many ways to get it. I said this because art school can be expensive, and there are many resources available on the internet. At the end of the day, recruiters will value your animating skills more than your degree. However, if you can afford art school, there are benefits like having a designed curriculum, learning from class critiques, making artist friends, and gaining access to extra resources like software/tools/personalized guidance from professionals.
- Practice is key. Animate! You will learn from taking action as well as developing the skills from there.
- Build a strong portfolio. When you apply for jobs. They will be looking at your portfolio to see whether you have the skills to do the job. Research and learn from your favorite artists' portfolios/demo reels.
2) Opportunity
- Networking. So many people in the industry get the job because they know someone. Making artist friends increases the chances of knowing more about opening opportunities. Sometimes, the people you know happen to be hiring, or sometimes, they might recommend you to their project/their team because they like you and your work, which leads to the second point.
- Be great to work with. The pool of applications is big and the studios are not only looking for people that are good at work but also good to work with. Animation is a collaboration, and most projects take a long time to finish. People want to work with people who they want to see every day.
- Always on the lookout for opportunities. Keep yourself updated on the news, and what is going on in the industry. Research companies, opening jobs, and new shows that are coming out.
Books recommendations: The Animator's Survival Kit, Disney Animation: The Illusion of Life, Your Career in Animation (2nd Edition): How to Survive and Thrive
If you've heard of this quote "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity", I think it is pretty similar to how you can break into the animation industry. You have to maximize:
1) Preparation
- You need the skill to do the job.
- Learn art and animation, either by attending school or learning the craft from online/books. In my opinion, art school is not necessary but the knowledge and skills are, and there are many ways to get it. I said this because art school can be expensive, and there are many resources available on the internet. At the end of the day, recruiters will value your animating skills more than your degree. However, if you can afford art school, there are benefits like having a designed curriculum, learning from class critiques, making artist friends, and gaining access to extra resources like software/tools/personalized guidance from professionals.
- Practice is key. Animate! You will learn from taking action as well as developing the skills from there.
- Build a strong portfolio. When you apply for jobs. They will be looking at your portfolio to see whether you have the skills to do the job. Research and learn from your favorite artists' portfolios/demo reels.
2) Opportunity
- Networking. So many people in the industry get the job because they know someone. Making artist friends increases the chances of knowing more about opening opportunities. Sometimes, the people you know happen to be hiring, or sometimes, they might recommend you to their project/their team because they like you and your work, which leads to the second point.
- Be great to work with. The pool of applications is big and the studios are not only looking for people that are good at work but also good to work with. Animation is a collaboration, and most projects take a long time to finish. People want to work with people who they want to see every day.
- Always on the lookout for opportunities. Keep yourself updated on the news, and what is going on in the industry. Research companies, opening jobs, and new shows that are coming out.
Pavida recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Weitao
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Weitao,
As a high schooler, you have a great opportunity to start building your path in the animation industry! Here are some steps you can take:
1. Start with the Basics: Begin by learning the fundamentals of animation. There are plenty of online tutorials and resources available to help you get started. Also Outschool has a lot of classes and coding to build up experience at all levels and not so expensive.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice: Dedicate time to honing your skills. Create your own animations, experiment with different styles, and challenge yourself to improve with each project. Drawing tablets are reasonable on Amazon and just keep sketching.
3. Join Animation Clubs or Classes: Look for animation clubs or classes at your school or in your community. These can provide valuable guidance, feedback, and opportunities to collaborate with other aspiring animators.
4. Explore Software and Tools: Familiarize yourself with industry-standard animation software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom, or Blender. Experiment with different tools to find what works best for you.
5. Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your best animations. Include a variety of work that highlights your skills and creativity. This will be essential when applying for internships or college programs.
6. Seek Feedback and Mentorship: Share your work with others and seek constructive feedback. Consider reaching out to professional animators or teachers who can provide mentorship and guidance.
7. Research Animation Programs: Look into colleges or universities that offer animation programs. Research their curriculum, faculty, and alumni success stories to find a program that aligns with your goals.
Remember, the animation industry is competitive, but with dedication, passion, and continuous learning, you can make your mark. Keep creating, exploring, and pushing your boundaries. Best of luck on your animation journey!
As a high schooler, you have a great opportunity to start building your path in the animation industry! Here are some steps you can take:
1. Start with the Basics: Begin by learning the fundamentals of animation. There are plenty of online tutorials and resources available to help you get started. Also Outschool has a lot of classes and coding to build up experience at all levels and not so expensive.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice: Dedicate time to honing your skills. Create your own animations, experiment with different styles, and challenge yourself to improve with each project. Drawing tablets are reasonable on Amazon and just keep sketching.
3. Join Animation Clubs or Classes: Look for animation clubs or classes at your school or in your community. These can provide valuable guidance, feedback, and opportunities to collaborate with other aspiring animators.
4. Explore Software and Tools: Familiarize yourself with industry-standard animation software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom, or Blender. Experiment with different tools to find what works best for you.
5. Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your best animations. Include a variety of work that highlights your skills and creativity. This will be essential when applying for internships or college programs.
6. Seek Feedback and Mentorship: Share your work with others and seek constructive feedback. Consider reaching out to professional animators or teachers who can provide mentorship and guidance.
7. Research Animation Programs: Look into colleges or universities that offer animation programs. Research their curriculum, faculty, and alumni success stories to find a program that aligns with your goals.
Remember, the animation industry is competitive, but with dedication, passion, and continuous learning, you can make your mark. Keep creating, exploring, and pushing your boundaries. Best of luck on your animation journey!
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Weitao
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Weitao,
Laying the Groundwork with Education and Training
Begin your journey into animation by establishing a strong base in its fundamentals. You can achieve this through a degree program at a recognized institution, or by engaging in self-learning and online courses. Many successful animators hold degrees in fine arts, graphic design, or related disciplines.
If you're currently in high school, it's advisable to take art and design classes to hone your skills. Additionally, consider exploring online courses and tutorials that focus on animation software and techniques.
Creating a Compelling Portfolio
To make a mark in the animation industry, a robust portfolio is indispensable. This portfolio should highlight your finest work, encompassing both traditional and digital art. Aim to include a diverse range of styles and techniques to illustrate your adaptability as an artist.
While developing your portfolio, think about pursuing internships or entry-level roles at animation studios. This practical experience will not only enhance your skills but also provide a platform to forge valuable industry connections.
The Importance of Networking
Networking plays a pivotal role in unearthing opportunities within the animation industry. Participate in industry-centric events such as conferences and festivals to mingle with professionals and stay abreast of emerging trends and techniques. Membership in professional bodies like the Animation Guild or Women in Animation can further facilitate connections with industry peers and keep you informed about industry developments.
Securing a Job in the Industry
The animation industry offers a plethora of career paths, ranging from character design to storyboarding to special effects. Investigate various roles to identify the one that aligns best with your skills and passions.
To discover job opportunities, monitor websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor for animation-related job listings. Don't hesitate to directly contact studios to inquire about vacancies. Remember, persistence is crucial - don't lose heart if you don't receive a response immediately. Continue to refine your skills and expand your network, and persist in applying for new opportunities.
Recommended Reading
Consider enriching your knowledge with these authoritative references:
- "The Animator’s Survival Kit" by Richard Williams
- "The Art of Animal Drawing" by Ken Hultgren
- "Animation: From Pencil to Pixel" by Thierry Groensteen
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
Laying the Groundwork with Education and Training
Begin your journey into animation by establishing a strong base in its fundamentals. You can achieve this through a degree program at a recognized institution, or by engaging in self-learning and online courses. Many successful animators hold degrees in fine arts, graphic design, or related disciplines.
If you're currently in high school, it's advisable to take art and design classes to hone your skills. Additionally, consider exploring online courses and tutorials that focus on animation software and techniques.
Creating a Compelling Portfolio
To make a mark in the animation industry, a robust portfolio is indispensable. This portfolio should highlight your finest work, encompassing both traditional and digital art. Aim to include a diverse range of styles and techniques to illustrate your adaptability as an artist.
While developing your portfolio, think about pursuing internships or entry-level roles at animation studios. This practical experience will not only enhance your skills but also provide a platform to forge valuable industry connections.
The Importance of Networking
Networking plays a pivotal role in unearthing opportunities within the animation industry. Participate in industry-centric events such as conferences and festivals to mingle with professionals and stay abreast of emerging trends and techniques. Membership in professional bodies like the Animation Guild or Women in Animation can further facilitate connections with industry peers and keep you informed about industry developments.
Securing a Job in the Industry
The animation industry offers a plethora of career paths, ranging from character design to storyboarding to special effects. Investigate various roles to identify the one that aligns best with your skills and passions.
To discover job opportunities, monitor websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor for animation-related job listings. Don't hesitate to directly contact studios to inquire about vacancies. Remember, persistence is crucial - don't lose heart if you don't receive a response immediately. Continue to refine your skills and expand your network, and persist in applying for new opportunities.
Recommended Reading
Consider enriching your knowledge with these authoritative references:
- "The Animator’s Survival Kit" by Richard Williams
- "The Art of Animal Drawing" by Ken Hultgren
- "Animation: From Pencil to Pixel" by Thierry Groensteen
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
Thank you so much, James Constantine!
Weitao
Updated
Jiadi’s Answer
Hello Weitao, there are several ways of going into the animation industry and here is what I know:
1. Post-Production Studios:
In major cities like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and others, there are numerous post houses dedicated to film, television, and commercial works. These studios frequently require motion designers, as most of these mediums heavily rely on it. Additionally, many of these companies offer internships during both the winter and summer seasons, providing an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience and establish connections in the industry.
2. Animation Studios:
Animation studios like Warner Bros. and Pixar, similar to post houses, provide yearly internships for students. Visit their websites or LinkedIn to explore early career opportunities. Ensure you have a well-crafted animation reel and portfolio to effectively showcase your talent when opportunities arise.
3. Posting Your Animation Online:
Lastly, you can upload your work on social media and YouTube to grow your own following. I understand that it is a long shot to go into the industry that way but YouTubers like Zach Hadel and Michael Cusack (creators of popular TV series Smiling Friends) have began their career that way.
1. Post-Production Studios:
In major cities like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and others, there are numerous post houses dedicated to film, television, and commercial works. These studios frequently require motion designers, as most of these mediums heavily rely on it. Additionally, many of these companies offer internships during both the winter and summer seasons, providing an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience and establish connections in the industry.
2. Animation Studios:
Animation studios like Warner Bros. and Pixar, similar to post houses, provide yearly internships for students. Visit their websites or LinkedIn to explore early career opportunities. Ensure you have a well-crafted animation reel and portfolio to effectively showcase your talent when opportunities arise.
3. Posting Your Animation Online:
Lastly, you can upload your work on social media and YouTube to grow your own following. I understand that it is a long shot to go into the industry that way but YouTubers like Zach Hadel and Michael Cusack (creators of popular TV series Smiling Friends) have began their career that way.
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