Animator

Animator


» 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. The last 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, from generating ideas, to 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.

Training

One of the most valuable things you can do is to keep your familiarity with human movement up to date by attending life drawing classes. Short courses about new animation software and developments are also recommended. A list of these can be found via the British Film Institute (BFI).
Larger companies may offer a more formal training package. This might include taking a masters in animation or working towards a professional qualification in a more specialist area.
Local audio visual sector skills councils can be very useful when it comes to researching short courses or opportunities to develop further specialisation. Contact Skillset (Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries) to see which organization covers your region. Local sector skills councils could, in turn, direct you to local organizations that offer audio visual training, for example Cyfle in Wales or the University of the West of England in Bristol.
Programs used in animation are GIMP, BLENDER, INKSCAPE, etc.