But with the rising popularity of video games and the use of computer animation in film and advertising, more and more artists have the chance to find a fulfilling, creative job in the world of computer animation.
Animation isn’t what it used to be. In the age of modern technology, animation is achieved using advanced computer graphics technology and software. These modern advances allow animators to create images that look almost exactly like the real thing. However, computers can’t do all the work. Animators still need the ability to imagine, create, and design the images as well as use computer animation. With that, computer animation education requires natural abilities and technical skill.
Future Growth in Animation
Job growth in animation has exploded as computers have taken over the way we work, communicate, and entertain. Animation used to be limited to television commercials and children’s programs. Currently, animation is part of many more industries than just entertainment. Any industry that has online advertising or websites may have a need for animation. Animated advertisements and web designs require skilled animators just like the entertainment industry. Animators also find work in film and video games. Special effects technology is constantly improving and advancing as are video game graphics.
However, demand for highly skilled and talented animators may be high, but so is the competition. The animation industry is one that attracts many capable and dedicated professionals. You will find yourself competing with numerous other talented animation professionals for a few positions.
Animator’s Salary
Animators earn an average of $45,000 annually. However, with the right education and abilities, you can earn more in the animation industry. Animation professionals with more experience and responsibility can earn as much as $80,000 a year. It’s important to be patient with your salary in this business because experience is of great value to employers. Your dedication and commitment to the industry will pay off with a better salary down the road.
Computer Animation Education
Education isn’t a requirement to enter the animation field. However, it is highly recommended. For many animation hopefuls, a computer animation degree is the only way to develop the necessary graphic design and computer skills to work in the animation field. Artistic ability is essential to your success as an animator, but computer animation skills are necessary to get your foot in the door.
Many animation employers will want to see an Associate’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or computer animation. The education requirements for digital graphics and animation are not set in stone. However, employers want to see evidence that you have the appropriate technical skills to succeed in your position. Nevertheless, you do have some flexibility as to how you pursue your animation education.
Animation classes can be taken at numerous community colleges and technical schools around the country. You can also obtain short-term certificates in animation. These certifications may only require a six-month or year-long program in order to complete your certification. Because computer animation and digital graphics are highly specialized and specific skills, you may not need to attend a four-year university in order to start your career in animation.
There are many different ways to get the training your need to become an animator. However, the most important thing that employers want to know is whether you have the technical and artistic abilities to do your job well. Animators with little training can actually be better at their jobs than those with university degrees. The best way to demonstrate your skills to employers is through your portfolio.
Your portfolio is a collection of your past animation work that you can show potential employers as evidence of your talent and skill level. These works could be class projects, work you’ve done on your own, or paid work you’ve done for other clients or employers. If the projects in your portfolio were done for clients or employers, you may want to get permission from these individuals to include the projects in your portfolio.
Many animators struggle to develop a portfolio because they think they need a job before they can build a portfolio. However, your portfolio doesn’t need to be made up of paid work. Do the work on your own time, but it’s important to have work to show to employers.
Choosing an Animation Degree Program
Animation degrees are offered at colleges and universities all over the country. Many of them can be completed online or during night and weekend classes. Choosing an animation program that’s right for you depends on your availability, budget, and schedule. Obviously, longer programs at universities will cost more. Not to mention, they take much longer to complete. Animation and graphic design programs offered at specialized art schools can cost more as well.
Consider your finances and the amount of time you can spend before starting your career when choosing a degree program. The most important thing is to work hard and keep developing your skills throughout your career as an animator.
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