PROFESSIONAL OCCUPATIONS IN MULTIMEDIA:
ANIMATORS

• THE JOB
• COMPENSATION
• REQUIREMENTS
• FINDING THE JOB
  
  

ANIMATORS
California Occupational Guide Number 2006 (part)
Interest Area:  Emerging Occupations
1995

THE JOB

Animators create two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) images that 
show objects in motion or illustrate a process.  These images convey or 
enhance the project's message.  Originally animators created images using 
paper and pen.  These images were then arranged to give the illusion of 
movement and depth.  Today, two dimensional (2D) animators can still create 
images in the traditional way, but the images are then scanned into a 
computer, edited, and color, texture, or motion are added.  There are also 
computer based 2D animation software packages to assist with the initial 
creation of the images.  Three dimensional (3D) images are created using 
computer animation or modeling programs and produce much more realistic and 
complex images.  The hardware and software needed to create 3D animation is 
still very expensive and requires a high level of skill.  Therefore, this 
type of work tends to be done by large production companies.  It is also 
more difficult and expensive to obtain training and experience in 3D 
animation, but compensation can be twice that of 2D animators.

COMPENSATION

Many multimedia specialists do not work as salaried employees for a single 
company over a long period of time.  It is more typical to work freelance as 
an independent contractor, moving from one project to the next, and being 
paid hourly, daily, or per project.

A formal salary survey is not available; however references to annual 
salaries range from $25,000 for beginners to $75,000 for those with 
experience.  Hourly wages range from $25/hr to $75/hr for 2D animators.  
Experienced 3D animators using high-end hardware and software can earn from 
$100/hr to $200/hr.  All salaries depend on the nature of the project and 
the skill of the specialists.

REQUIREMENTS

Job Skills Needed:


  -- Understanding of both traditional and newer methods of animation.
  -- Ability to draw, including understanding of color theory, life drawing 
     and composition.
  -- Ability to use computer animation tools.
  -- Ability to use electronic tools such as illustration, scanning and 
     image manipulation tools.
  -- Understanding of sketch ideas and storyboards.
  -- Ability to accomplish tasks within scheduled deadlines and budgets
  -- Ability to work as a member of a team.
  -- Ability to clearly communicate ideas.
  -- Ability to quickly and accurately understand the goals and 
     objectives of the project.
  -- Ability to be organized.
  -- Ability to use the computer tools required to complete the project.


Other Helpful Skills or Characteristics:

  -- Willingness and ability to work continuously for long periods of time.
  -- Willingness and ability to work effectively alone or without much 
     supervision or collaboration.
  -- Ability and patience for very detailed work.
  -- Willingness and ability to continually update skills by learning new 
     tools and techniques.
  -- Passion for the work.
  -- A good sense of humor. 
  -- Patience.
  -- Be an expert in one or a few areas, but have a general understanding 
     of as many areas as possible.

FINDING THE JOB

  -- Use contacts from previous projects or professional organizations to 
     get an interview with the project's creative director or producers 
     since they are the ones most likely to make the hiring decision.
  -- Create a portfolio of your work that demonstrates your versatility, 
     creativity and technical abilities as well as your capacity to work 
     within time and budget constraints.
  -- Your portfolio should include samples of your work on a diskette, 
  -- CD-ROM, video tape, or interactive format if possible.
  -- Customize your portfolio to highlight work you have done that is 
     similar to that of the new project.
  -- Attend multimedia and professional conferences and meetings to generate 
     job leads and to acquire current information about trends, tools and 
     techniques.
  -- Update and acquire new skills through enrollment in continuing 
     education classes and through reading magazines in the field.  Network 
     with other students and faculty.
  -- Those without experience or training should consider interning or 
     volunteering on a project to gain experience and build marketable 
     skills.

Source:  State of California, Employment Development Department,
         Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
         (916)  262-2162

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