Animator
What does an animator do?
From video games and anime, to Pixar and Disney movies – animations are everywhere and animation makers are the artists behind these creations. Using a series of images (known as frames) they create the illusion of movement. Working with hand-drawings, specialist animation software, or models and puppets; the methods used by an animator will depend on their field. As an animator you could create special effects for a movie, develop characters for TV shows, design a fantasy world for a video game, work with advertising agencies on ad campaigns, or help design websites – all of which you could do working within an organisation or as a contracted freelancer.Is a career as an animator right for me?
If you’re highly creative, project-orientated and have a strong drive to succeed, then an animator job or career as an illustrator could be for you. As an animator, you'll require an eye for design and movement, high attention to detail and strong competencies in drawing.
Other desirable key skills and attributes of an animation maker include:
Creative expression, storytelling and original thinking.
Proficiency in using technology, digital tools, and relevant software.
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
How to become an animator
To work as an animation maker, you typically need a bachelor’s degree or a diploma in graphic arts, visual arts, animation, or a related field. Developing a strong portfolio is also crucial in showcasing your skills and creativity, which can be key to launching a successful animator career. A well-crafted portfolio demonstrates your abilities to potential employers and sets you apart in this competitive industry.
Every journey to study is individual and there are several paths you can take to reach your goals as an animation creator. Here is just one path you could take to get started:
- Complete a relevant qualification in animation, digital media, visual arts, design or a related field.
- Develop your animation skills in areas such as 2D animation, 3D modelling, motion graphics and visual storytelling.
- Build a portfolio showcasing your creative work, technical abilities and animation projects.
- Gain industry experience through internships, freelance projects or entry-level roles in animation, film, television or game development.
- Pursue an animator role, creating animated content for film, television, games, advertising and digital media.
How long does it take to become an animator?
The time it takes to become an animator can vary depending on your previous education, the training requirements of specific fields, and employment opportunities.
A good place to start when thinking about how to become an animator is looking into a university undergraduate degree. Completing a bachelor’s degree in animation typically takes around three years of full-time study or the part-time equivalent.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Prepare for a career in animation with a UniSQ degree, building the creative and technical expertise needed to produce engaging visual content for a range of media platforms.
Responsibilities and work settings
Creating animated characters, scenes and visual effects for film, television, games and digital media.
Developing storyboards and visual concepts to plan how stories and ideas will be presented on screen.
Using industry-standard animation software to produce, edit and refine animation sequences.
Collaborating with artists, designers, writers and producers to bring creative projects to life.
Reviewing and editing animations to ensure they meet creative, technical and quality standards, creative briefs and project deadlines.
Media, publishing and broadcasting organisations
Digital business and marketing agencies
Arts and creative organisations
Software development and technology companies
Universities and higher education providers
Animator FAQs
To be a successful animator creator, you should be proficient in the following programs, along with essential transferrable skills such as communication and teamwork:
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe InDesign
- Graphic Design
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Acrobat.
These skills form the backbone of a successful animator career and are highly valued by employers in the animation and visual arts industries.
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