What is an Animation Career?

Animation continues to be a mystical concept to prospective students and employers alike. This is because there is a widely accepted definition of what an animation career involves. Some companies are looking for traditional 2D animators, some for 3D animators, and some for Flash animators. When you begin your career in animation, you should focus your talents in the specific area that interests you most. By developing strong talents in your specialty, you greatly enhance your animation career opportunities.

Types of Animation Careers

While it is important to obtain a technical education in all areas of animation, you'll find that once you begin your job search, you will need to specialize in one specific area of animation. The following represent some of your animation choices:

1. 3D Animation - Models images in a 3D perspective via sketches and computerized graphic programs.
2. Flash Animation - Utilizes a software package to create a 30 second stand-alone movie.
3. Traditional 2D Animation - Consists of images drawn on a cell, paper, or other medium.
4. Computerized Animation - Utilizes animation computer software packages to develop and move images.
5. Other - Incorporates new technology such as CyberSpot, Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG), and other Web-based animation systems that produce a Flash movie without any preliminary, third party plug-ins.

Where can Your Animation Career be Found?

Animation careers can be found just about anywhere you look. Job opportunities include broadcast design, game design, CD-Rom design, web design, simulations, film effects and props, television effects and props, and even location-based entertainment such as theme park rides, movies, and games.

Landing your dream job starts with a quality animation education and continues with a whole lot of practice and experience. Begin by doing some pro-bono jobs for fun and let your creative talents emerge. Before you know it, you'll find an animation niche that suits your goals and lifestyle.