Career Corner

Animators

Description of Responsibilities
Animators create moving cartoons for television, film, software, and the Internet. The animation process begins by selecting a story. Once a story is chosen, a storyboard—a series of still drawings that show the story’s progress—is created to outline the film. Animators then create action by drawing the major poses of each character. In-betweeners fill in the many drawings required to complete each movement. One second of film usually requires 24 drawings. Animation can be created using drawings, computer software, models, or puppets.

Education, Training, and Professional Qualifications
A college degree in animation or visual communication design is preferred. Work experience and a portfolio showing examples of past projects are often required. The minimum requirement is a high school diploma or GED plus experience. Computer science or computer engineering certificates are needed to work in computer animation.

Other Considerations
Animators need to have a good sense of color, motion, and form. The work requires long hours, self-discipline, patience, and the ability to work with others.