Description

Animators create animations using technologies and software to create the illusion of movement. They design characters and backgrounds, draw storyboards, and animate each scene. Animators also create sound effects, music, and dialogue to complete the Animation.

Some alternate titles for Animator are:

  • 3D Animator: A 3D Animator is responsible for creating realistic and compelling motion graphics in a 3D environment. They use computer-generated imagery (CGI) and motion capture technology to create lifelike characters and scenes.
  • Character Animator: Character Animators create the movements and expressions of characters in animated movies, television shows, commercials, and video games. They work closely with directors and other animators to develop and refine the characters' movements and emotions.
  • Animation Specialist: Animation Specialists create moving images and visual effects for films, television shows, video games, and other media. They may also create and edit soundtracks, create special effects, and ensure the Animation meets the project's standards.

Roles & Responsibilities

Some responsibilities of an Animator are:

  • Creating the visual representation of a story or idea, developing characters, objects and background designs, and creating storyboards that illustrate the Animation flow.
  • Troubleshooting any problems that arise during the production process, and must be able to test the Animation for accuracy and consistency. They must also be able to optimize the Animation for different platforms, such as the web and mobile.
  • Designing and drawing characters, backgrounds, and other images used in the Animation and able to edit and composite the Animation sequences, adding sound and special effects. They must be able to ensure that the Animation is of high quality and is delivered on time.

Qualifications & Work Experience

Major educational qualifications required for Animator are:

  • Bachelor's degree or certificate in computer animation, fine arts, graphic design, or related field.
  • More education, experience, or proficiency with specific animation software platforms may be preferred.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, presentation, and computer skills.
  • Understanding of animation, storytelling, and character development techniques.

Essential Skills For Animator

1

Design Thinking

2

Animation

3

3D Design

4

Adobe Animate

5

UI Animations

Skills That Affect Animator Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

3D Design

37%

Career Prospects

Working as an animator is usually the first step toward becoming an animation director. With a few years of experience, animators advance to lead animators, then supervise animators, and finally to the most senior-level position, the animation director. Some animators can also be directly promoted to become animation directors. Along with experience, animation directors must possess storytelling, drawing, and computer skills. Some alternative job roles available for an Animation Director are:

  • Creative Director: Sets the artistic direction and leads the creative team in developing innovative and impactful designs and campaigns.
  • Art Director: Oversees the artistic aspects of a project, ensuring that the visuals align with the creative vision and brand guidelines.
  • Executive Producer: Manages the production process, ensuring efficient workflow and high-quality deliverables, while overseeing budgets and timelines.
  • Design Director: Establishes and maintains the design standards and direction, guiding the design team to create compelling and cohesive visuals.
  • Storyboard Artist: Translates script and ideas into visual narratives through sketches or digital illustrations, providing a blueprint for production.
  • 3D Animator: Creates dynamic and lifelike animations using 3D models, adding depth and realism to visual presentations and projects.

How to Learn

The Indian Animated industry is expanding quickly, with an increasing amount of Animated shows and feature films produced in India and abroad. Demand for animators has increased because of the growing number of children watching television, playing games, affordable internet access, and the rising popularity of OTT. In the FICCI EY report for March 2022 that the Animation business has increased by 24% while the Animation and visual effects sector is projected to reach 180 billion in 2024.
Animation and the VFX sector were worth 85 billion Indian rupees by 2021, despite the decrease in market value the year prior due to the adverse effects of the pandemic. Estimates for 2024 suggest an increase of 29%, with the industry's worth reaching 180 billion Indian rupees.