Mar 9, 2010
Careers in Animation
There was a time when artistic talent was practically all that one needed to become an animator. However nowadays careers in animation are better suited for those who not only have artistic talent, but also very well developed computer skills.
Animation in the 21st century has truly entered into the digital age. And just as animation has evolved into a mostly computer generated process, it has also expanded to create many new opportunities.
At one time animators worked almost exclusively on making cartoons for TV and movies. However nowadays, in addition to TV and movies, there are opportunities for talented animators in video games, advertising, and on the web. Animation of one sort or another is cropping up at us all the time. For a talented animator, there are now perhaps more opportunities than ever before.
Many animators enjoy full time positions, working in-house. These sorts of positions are salaried and can be found at motion picture or television production companies, advertising agencies, web design houses, video game companies or animation studios.
A great many other animators work as freelancers. This is a particularly good option for those who wish to work in the field of web animation. Freelance animators enjoy the freedom of working out of their home office as well as being able to largely, set their own schedule.
Careers in animation offer one an excellent opportunity to earn a good salary while doing something rewarding and creative.
The ideal candidate for an entry-level animation job will likely have a 4-year degree. Many art and design schools now offer animation programs, although related degrees in art, media, design or computer science can also be appropriate.
However, it’s important to remember that animation is a profession, which attracts many bright and talented people. Because of this the job market can be competitive. Anyone seeking an entry-level animation job would do well to attend an internship of one kind or another.
Mentoring programs are one type of internship that can be particularly helpful.
Mentoring programs allow students to learn animation in the environment of a real animation studio, under the guidance of working professional animators.
Beyond the invaluable hands on experience students gain in such programs, they also have the opportunity to make the contacts and connections that can be integral to gaining a foothold in the animation industry.
Careers in animation are a good choice for anyone with creative artistic talent, good computer skills and a drive to succeed.
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