Also called: Computer Animators

Animators create moving images and special effects for feature films, television commercials, short features computer games and videos. They draw by hand. They use computers to create the large series of pictures (sequential drawings) which, when photographed and transferred to film or tape, then projected at a specific speed, form the animated cartoons seen in movies and on television. They produce a series of sketches, may make a model, and do layout for animated films. In addition, they may create background layouts, moods and color patterns. Animators usually begin by doing 2-D drawings which are scanned into the computer, edited, colored, textured, and motion added.

Tasks include: They may also prepare successive drawings of special effects, such as wind, rain, and fire. Animation also has applications in marketing and advertising.

Personal characteristics will aid you in being successful. These abilities may be natural and can be improved by using them.

High ability to:

• have patience
• draw by hand

Ability to:

• work as part of a team
• work effectively alone without supervision
• work quickly and accurately
• understand the goals and objectives of a project

Demonstrate:

• passion for the work

This section reflects the physical activities and physical demands that most people working in this occupation engage in during the course of a workday. However, these occupations often can be performed by those with disabilities when provided with appropriate adaptations.

Workers are assigned to a production unit. Work is performed in a studio or office that is well-lighted and ventilated. There is frequent exposure to odors from glues, paint, and ink. The work may be continuous for large periods of time. Some overtime is needed to meet deadlines. When working by contract, much time will be spent selling your own services.

Tools used: Animators use the computer and other electronic tools and media to speed up the drawing process. They use a variety of computer software packages to complete their work. Animators will also use illustration scanners and image manipulation tools. They may also be sitting at a computer for long periods.

Job availability for any occupation is subject to change depending on the nation's economic strength, global economics, unexpected political events, and natural disasters. You should become aware of current events and how they may impact your career.

CALIFORNIA PAY: Pay varies widely and depends on experience, specific job duties, geographic location, and the reputation of the Animator. Well-established Animators may earn more than salaried workers. Freelancers have the potential to earn very high pay. Pay is similar to Technical Illustrators. 3-D Animators earn the highest pay.

• Entry pay ranges from $1, 170 to $2, 900 per month.
• Top pay ranges from $1, 600 to over $4, 165 per month
• It is rare, but some Animators and artists pay may ranges from $6, 660 to over $8, 330 per month.

Occupational Employment Statistics Survey ( OES ) data for 1998:

OES category Artists and Related Workers(34035)

• Average pay: $3, 409 per month.
• Median pay: $2, 988 per month.

OES category Artists and Related Workers(34035)

• Average pay: $3, 409 per month.
• Median pay: $2, 988 per month.

America's Career InfoNet. Search for California in wages and trends: http://www.acinet.org/acinet/

CALIFORNIA EMPLOYMENT: Jobs are concentrated near larger cities, such as the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area. Other Animator jobs are found in Florida.

Occupational Employment Statistics Survey ( OES ) employment projections to 2008:

OES category Artists & Related Workers(34035)

• Total jobs: 29, 700
• Job openings due to growth: 7, 600
• Job openings due to separation: 5, 300

CALIFORNIA OUTLOOK: Job availability for any occupation can change with the nation's economic strength, global economics, unexpected political events, and natural disasters. Become aware of current events and how they may impact careers. Determine when you will be entering the labor market. Think ahead. Demand for jobs can change quickly, always check local newspapers, periodicals, and websites. View news from all over the world. Make an informed decision about your future career.

It is very difficult to find a job without experience. Employers are always looking for people with outstanding ability. Animators must gain recognition and a reputation in their field. Experience and recognition is needed to land the job you want. Turnover in most areas is low. Those with computer skills will be in greater demand.

Feature animation is increasingly becoming important in the film industry. Employers are looking primarily for people with experience and talent in movement and motion studies. People coming out of school with animation knowledge and skills need experience. Experience is offered in training programs.

Occupational Employment Statistics Survey ( OES ) growth projections through 2008:

• Much faster than average growth is projected for Artists & Related Workers(34035)

CALIFORNIA EMERGING OCCUPATION: This section refers to occupations that are determined to be emerging in the California economy.

This occupation is emerging through the year 2008 because many opportunities are created by technological innovations, shifting of markets or regulations. There are job opportunities for creative and talent people.

Employers prefer applicants with a college degree in fine art, graphic design, or visual communication. Employers usually want people with talent and demonstrated drawing ability. Some employers offer on-the-job training once an applicant has completed their education. It takes from two up to four years to learn the necessary skills to do the job. Technical and computer training should be part of your education. Several community colleges offer instruction. Some colleges and universities and art or design schools offer programs of study. Some offer course work in animation. Most offer courses in art, graphics design, and technical illustration. College course work should include : animation design, character animation, color, computer image-making hardware and software, design, drafting, graphic rendering techniques, kinetic figure studies, motion graphics (experimental animation), operation of animation cameras, perspective.

A training program (13 to 15-weeks) is offered by the Walt Disney World, Feature Animation Department in Florida and California. This training program offers applicants an opportunity to learn the animation process. This is an entry-level position that may lead to employment with Disney. Applicants may request the requirements of a portfolio review from which trainees are chosen. Applicants must submit a portfolio of their life drawings, quick sketches, and observational sketches. Selection for this training program depends entirely on the strength of the portfolio review. Write : Walt Disney Company
Computer Training Program
500 S. Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521-8934
Walt Disney Company
Artist Development Department
500 S. Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521-8934
Walt Disney World
Feature Animation Department
P.O. Box 10200
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

(407) 560-4968 (Feature Animation Department)

It will be important to continually update your skills by learning about new tools and techniques.

• Art
• Graphics Arts(Printing and Graphics Arts)

Advanced Mathematics	Art
Computer applications	Computer Science
Drafting	Drawing
English Composition	Geometry
Industrial Arts	Mechanical Drawing
Photography	Physics
Printing	Science

It is a good idea to see a counselor about graduation requirements at your high school. Courses you take will vary depending on your career goals.

All high schools do not offer the same courses. Course titles may be different at each school. Some courses offered at your high school may be Regional Occupational Program/Center courses.

Talent is essential. You should have a basic understanding of form and knowledge of the art of moving a character. You should have familiarity of background art and layout. Knowledge of computer design software and techniques is essential. It is important that you be excited about animation.

Most occupations have a related association. Currently, EUREKA has no associations listed for this occupation. If you find an association, write and ask for helpful career information. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope with your request.