How to become A 3D Animator

• 3D Animation Artist

What do 3D Animators do?

A 3D Animator would typically need to:

• Read scripts and storylines to understand the client’s vision before preparing and presenting designs to clients for evaluation
• Develop storyboards in the initial phase by creating drawings, sketches, and models either digitally or by hand
• Design the background and other objects of the setting to ensure synchronization of frames and audio
• Join images with background graphics and special effects using a specialist computer generation software such as Maya, Flash, and After Effects
• Work with the editors to produce the final output while overseeing the animation assistants
• Promote and run the business through active collaboration with other design and production staff

3D Animators usually work in well-lit offices or studios and may sometimes travel to meet clients.

3D Animators usually work regular office hours. They may work additional hours, including weekends, to meet deadlines.

Many 3D Animators work freelance, although part-time and temporary contracts are standard. 3D Animators are generally employed by:

• Web Design Companies
• Computer Game Companies
• Film Studios
• Marketing Companies

Professional associations and organizations are a crucial resource for 3D Animators interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more looks excellent on your resume to bolster your credentials and qualifications as a 3D Animator.

• Usually, a very solitary profession
• Stop-frame Animation involves standing for long periods under hot studio lights while other types of Animation include long hours sitting at a drawing board or computer
• Perseverance and patience required to do multiple revisions to make the sketches look flawless

It is worth getting a range of experience working on various projects by volunteering or applying for internships. Since software packages used for Animation are easily accessible, forward-looking 3D Animators can experiment with them and add the projects they undertake to their portfolio.

Prospective 3D Animators may apply for a residency and work as an artist-in-residence with access to facilities and a working environment conducive to creative work. They can either freelance or work with industry professionals on specific projects.

Potential 3D Animators may opt for an associate degree or certificate course in 3D modeling, 3D graphic design, character development, and interactive design. Employers typically look for aspiring 3D Animators with a bachelor’s degree or a diploma in film and television, photography, illustration, 3D/graphic design, animation, multimedia design, fine art, CGI, or 3D modeling.

Certification demonstrates competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, passing an examination, or some combination of the three. Voluntary certification in 3D animation from an objective and reputed organization can help promising 3D Animators gain professional credibility.

Many 3D Animators are self-employed while their career progression depends on their skills and versatility.

Most 3D Animators begin as studio runners and then progress to become Junior Animators. With experience, 3D Animators may become Lead Animators or Animation Directors. They may also move into specialist areas such as Animation special effects.

The highest positions on this career ladder are of Design Manager or Art Director. You may also choose to go into teaching.

Despite positive job growth, there will be competition for job openings because many recent graduates will be interested in entering the occupation. In addition to having a robust portfolio, those who specialize in a specific type of Animation or a particular skill, such as drawing or computer programming, should have the best opportunities.

3D Animators should constantly update themselves on the latest trends in the industry. Building a portfolio to showcase to your potential employers is an essential step. Training and development in the beginning stages of your career will primarily be self-initiated. Some employers may sponsor you to take professional courses in Animation.

There are numerous short courses and masterclasses, lasting from a few days to several weeks, covering specific areas of 3D Animation. A specialized postgraduate degree would give 3D Animators an edge over their competition.

3D Animation is a global industry, and many projects cater to international clients. Job prospects of 3D Animators depend more on their skills and prepared portfolio than on the degree acquired. 3D Animation is a collaborative profession wherein you will be required to work with designers and multimedia artists.

The path to becoming a 3D Animator can be vastly different from its 2D counterpart. There is no need to know how to draw to create 3D Animation. The majority of a 3D Animator’s work will consist of using a computer to manipulate and control characters in the same way you would move a puppet. Drawing is only one way to “animate” or “bring to life” an object or character.

The first cartoon character to appear on a postage stamp was Bugs Bunny, but the first to have a statue erected in his honor was Popeye.

Animation is about creating the illusion of life. It is art and innovation coupled with technical know-how. Animation done well is one of the most satisfying pieces of art as it blurs the line between fiction and reality.

Animation is not the art of drawings that move but the art of movements that are drawn.