How to Make a Career in Film Animation
The creative and technical skills that you can develop by studying animation in school can open up several opportunities in film and a range of other creative and digital fields. Here are some interesting yet crucial pieces of information that you need to know if you are creative and thinking of going to study animation in school.
What It Takes to Join an Animation School:
Most college courses require you to have graduated from high school. However, mature students who do not have a high school education can be considered. Most schools also suggest that you should have basic computer skills, math skills, and some may require a high school arts credits. Besides, some colleges need a portfolio of drawings to show how creative you are and demonstrate the ability to design human form and everyday objects.
Notably, requirements vary from one school to another; therefore, you can consider another college if you do not have the minimum requirements for one.
What You Will Learn in the College:
Some schools teach both digital and traditional animations and allow you to choose to specialize on either as you continue to learn. You will start by being introduced to the basics of drawing. You will then move into the storyboard. Afterward, you will do character animation and scriptwriting for animation. You will also cover the basics of filmmaking as well as 3D modelling, among other important topics.
It is worth noting that every program is different; therefore, you should ensure that you select one that contains all the elements you would like to learn.
You Should Prepare Yourself:
If you want to pursue animation, you should start building a portfolio early enough. Try to learn some of the programs that are taught in the school you intend to join. You can even call the school to inquire about the programs it uses. There are several animation programs in the market, but it is better to equip yourself with the one that the school uses, as it will enhance your learning experience. Some of the popular animation programs include ToonBoom, Maya, 3DS Max, and Eovia’s Carrara.
Even though some of these pieces of animation software are expensive to buy, you can start by using their trial versions. You can easily download them from their manufacturers’ websites. Trial versions will help you practice and learn how to use various animation tools within the program. Since some of these animation programs have a steep learning curve, it is wise to start learning and practicing early. Some powerful programs, such as Anim8or and Blender are open-source and absolutely free to download and install. They can help you create stunning designs and animations without digging deep into your pocket.
What Next After Graduation:
It is worth noting that 3D animators have a wide and varied market. It contains a wide range of industries, ranging from working at a production studio, small animation firms, advertisement agencies, to large video game manufacturers.
Other Career Opportunities of a 3D Animator
Often, a number of design firms rely on logos and corporate animations as their “bread and butter.”
It is amazing how many logos and TV commercials are 3D creations.
- You could work at medical design companies
- You could work on an animated television series
- You could work on a film doing background scenes
Wrapping It Up
Notably, as a 3D animator, you can work on a wide range of projects in various fields and industries. You need to be creative, patient, and detail-oriented. You should also have the ability to see the product that you are creating, way before you even put it to paper or draft it on the computer screen. Animation is one of the most rewarding careers if you enjoy being creative and can work independently as you bring characters to life.