3 answers
David
Student
Pasadena, California
2
Questions
Asked
640 views
How to get into animation?
I don't really know the process to get into the industry.
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3 answers
Samuel Jolayemi
Illustrator
1
Answer
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Samuel’s Answer
Well, I am relatively new in the space myself so I would share with you my process on getting familiar with the industry.
Starting out , I began first with understanding the concept of with an animation is and what elements are set in composition to create an ‘animation’. This involves finding out what tools can help you achieve creating and animation and the work around of getting familiar with said tools. I then proceeded to studying the basics of an animation, the fundamentals; I believe the helps you have a solid understanding of the approaches to animating, why said approach was made and how you can improve on or work with said approach and technique. An example of said approach is understanding the several principles of animation. But not to get you all bored up with grammar. I would always suggest that the faster way to learning anything is by submersing yourself in that respective field, and you can do that by learning, following familiar and recognized names in the field, closely studying and trying to break down their work helps a whole lot, also by constantly feeding your eyes on related projects, this helps your brain subconsciously think in that related field and also helps you come up with ideas and then lastly by constant practice whilst aiming to grow. Good luck.
Starting out , I began first with understanding the concept of with an animation is and what elements are set in composition to create an ‘animation’. This involves finding out what tools can help you achieve creating and animation and the work around of getting familiar with said tools. I then proceeded to studying the basics of an animation, the fundamentals; I believe the helps you have a solid understanding of the approaches to animating, why said approach was made and how you can improve on or work with said approach and technique. An example of said approach is understanding the several principles of animation. But not to get you all bored up with grammar. I would always suggest that the faster way to learning anything is by submersing yourself in that respective field, and you can do that by learning, following familiar and recognized names in the field, closely studying and trying to break down their work helps a whole lot, also by constantly feeding your eyes on related projects, this helps your brain subconsciously think in that related field and also helps you come up with ideas and then lastly by constant practice whilst aiming to grow. Good luck.
Kim Arskii
Social Media Analyst
145
Answers
St. Augustine, Florida
Updated
Kim’s Answer
First and foremost, obtaining a solid educational foundation is crucial. Many aspiring animators choose to pursue a degree in animation, fine arts, graphic design, or a related field. Universities and art schools often offer specialized programs that cover various aspects of animation, from traditional hand-drawn techniques to modern computer-generated imagery (CGI). Additionally, there are numerous online courses and tutorials available that can teach you the basics and advanced techniques in animation. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer courses that can help you get started.
Developing your skills is an ongoing process. Strong drawing skills are fundamental to creating compelling animations, so practice sketching regularly to improve your ability to convey motion and emotion. Learning to use industry-standard animation software is also essential. Programs like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, Blender, and Maya are widely used in the industry. Becoming proficient in these tools will make you more versatile and attractive to potential employers. Creating a portfolio is another critical step. Your portfolio should showcase your best work and include a variety of pieces that demonstrate your range and expertise in different styles and techniques.
Animation is a broad field, and it's beneficial to specialize in a particular area. Decide whether you want to focus on 2D animation, 3D animation, stop-motion, or another specialty. Each area has its own set of skills and tools, and specializing can help you become an expert in your chosen field.
Networking is a vital part of breaking into the animation industry. Join online forums, social media groups, and local meetups for animators to connect with like-minded individuals and industry professionals. Attending animation festivals, conferences, and workshops can also provide valuable opportunities to learn and network. Building relationships with other animators can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and valuable advice.
Gaining practical experience is essential. Look for internships or entry-level positions at animation studios to get your foot in the door. These positions can provide hands-on experience and help you build a professional network. Freelancing is another excellent way to gain experience. Start with small projects to build your portfolio and gradually take on more complex work as you gain confidence and skills.
The animation industry is constantly evolving, with new tools, techniques, and trends emerging regularly. Stay updated by following industry news, participating in continuing education courses, and experimenting with new technologies.
Good luck!!!
Developing your skills is an ongoing process. Strong drawing skills are fundamental to creating compelling animations, so practice sketching regularly to improve your ability to convey motion and emotion. Learning to use industry-standard animation software is also essential. Programs like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, Blender, and Maya are widely used in the industry. Becoming proficient in these tools will make you more versatile and attractive to potential employers. Creating a portfolio is another critical step. Your portfolio should showcase your best work and include a variety of pieces that demonstrate your range and expertise in different styles and techniques.
Animation is a broad field, and it's beneficial to specialize in a particular area. Decide whether you want to focus on 2D animation, 3D animation, stop-motion, or another specialty. Each area has its own set of skills and tools, and specializing can help you become an expert in your chosen field.
Networking is a vital part of breaking into the animation industry. Join online forums, social media groups, and local meetups for animators to connect with like-minded individuals and industry professionals. Attending animation festivals, conferences, and workshops can also provide valuable opportunities to learn and network. Building relationships with other animators can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and valuable advice.
Gaining practical experience is essential. Look for internships or entry-level positions at animation studios to get your foot in the door. These positions can provide hands-on experience and help you build a professional network. Freelancing is another excellent way to gain experience. Start with small projects to build your portfolio and gradually take on more complex work as you gain confidence and skills.
The animation industry is constantly evolving, with new tools, techniques, and trends emerging regularly. Stay updated by following industry news, participating in continuing education courses, and experimenting with new technologies.
Good luck!!!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, David !
Starting a career in Animation is a process that unfolds differently for everyone. It begins with being prepared and ready to start seeking work.
Your first step would be education. I would advise attending the Los Angeles Film School or the California Institute for the Arts for Animation. You can also take 2D and 3D animation classes at Cal State Northridge. But the education part is most important if you want a serious career in animation. You are already in a perfect location to have access to the best colleges for this as well as the abundant resources including networking opportunities. With your Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts in Animation and Visual Effects, you will learn how to work on a wide variety of projects, possibly obtain managerial positions or even open your own business offering your services as an independent animator. It will be important to have that competitive edge.
Start exploring colleges now, ones that have a high acceptance rate so you can begin right after high school. While in high school, design and animate as much as you can and create both a hard copy and electronic online portfolio of your creations. Create a resume. There are many resume guides online that you can discover through doing a search.
Take advantage of any resources that you have at this current time. If you are in high school, join groups connected to art, film, video and animation. If you aren't in high school, find a video and film community where you live. Look into Anime Pasadena, animation production companies for possible volunteer work or internships, Conventions and Events connected to Anime in your community, The Cartoon Arts Center of Pasadena for networking opportunities, and remember to attend the Pasadena Comic Convention and Toy Show. I have left links to all of these for you below.
The answer to your question is that you have to take that first active step. You can think and wonder about it for years but that will get you nowhere. Start now and build up your talent and life experience, education and expand your versatility. Before you know it, you may be teaching others and giving advice, too. So it's important to take that first step which can be simply looking at colleges and making some doable short term goals. Take it slow and give yourself time to make well though out decisions.
Once you graduate college, you will have worked on projects and networked, built some valuable contacts and made good friends whom you can collaborate with. You will have learned of the trade magazines and websites to read and organizations to be affiliated with. You will have learned about the Animators Guild which is the Union animators belong to. Their website is at Animation Guild dot org. We all have to start somewhere and now is a good time for you to take the first step for your journey. You can make it a reality !
I hope that this helps you begin the plans for your future career and I wish you all the best !
ANIME PASADENA https://www.animepasadena.com/
ANIMATION PRODUCTION COMPANIES https://www.productionhub.com/directory/profiles/animation-production-companies/us/california/pasadena
ANIME CONVENTIONS https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ca--pasadena/anime-convention/
THE CARTOON ARTS CENTER OF PASADENA https://www.meetup.com/cartoon-arts-center-of-pasadena/
PASADENA COMIC CONVENTION AND TOY SHOW https://pasadenacomiccon.com/
Starting a career in Animation is a process that unfolds differently for everyone. It begins with being prepared and ready to start seeking work.
Your first step would be education. I would advise attending the Los Angeles Film School or the California Institute for the Arts for Animation. You can also take 2D and 3D animation classes at Cal State Northridge. But the education part is most important if you want a serious career in animation. You are already in a perfect location to have access to the best colleges for this as well as the abundant resources including networking opportunities. With your Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts in Animation and Visual Effects, you will learn how to work on a wide variety of projects, possibly obtain managerial positions or even open your own business offering your services as an independent animator. It will be important to have that competitive edge.
Start exploring colleges now, ones that have a high acceptance rate so you can begin right after high school. While in high school, design and animate as much as you can and create both a hard copy and electronic online portfolio of your creations. Create a resume. There are many resume guides online that you can discover through doing a search.
Take advantage of any resources that you have at this current time. If you are in high school, join groups connected to art, film, video and animation. If you aren't in high school, find a video and film community where you live. Look into Anime Pasadena, animation production companies for possible volunteer work or internships, Conventions and Events connected to Anime in your community, The Cartoon Arts Center of Pasadena for networking opportunities, and remember to attend the Pasadena Comic Convention and Toy Show. I have left links to all of these for you below.
The answer to your question is that you have to take that first active step. You can think and wonder about it for years but that will get you nowhere. Start now and build up your talent and life experience, education and expand your versatility. Before you know it, you may be teaching others and giving advice, too. So it's important to take that first step which can be simply looking at colleges and making some doable short term goals. Take it slow and give yourself time to make well though out decisions.
Once you graduate college, you will have worked on projects and networked, built some valuable contacts and made good friends whom you can collaborate with. You will have learned of the trade magazines and websites to read and organizations to be affiliated with. You will have learned about the Animators Guild which is the Union animators belong to. Their website is at Animation Guild dot org. We all have to start somewhere and now is a good time for you to take the first step for your journey. You can make it a reality !
I hope that this helps you begin the plans for your future career and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps: