Guide to Becoming an Animator

Becoming an animator usually begins with a lifelong passion for drawing and acquiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Aspiring animators use these to apply to a higher education animation program, either as part of an undergraduate program or at a specialized art trade school, or independently develop a portfolio to show employers.

Undergraduate and Trade Schools

• Many undergraduate universities offer a bachelor's degree in fine art or animation. Trade schools, usually four-year programs, focus exclusively on giving the most relevant education to animation students.

Portfolio and Show Reel

• Animators will want to develop a portfolio or show reel consisting of their most diverse and impressive individual drawings or filmed animation segments. They send these portfolios and show reels to animation studios when looking to secure employment.

Portfolio Updates

• Working animators often advise students to rework and resubmit their portfolios. Dana Boadway says, "Studios will keep files on you, and watch your progress. And don't think that they won't notice your enthusiasm either."

Career Expectations

• Boadway also suggests accepting any job you can even if it is outside of your specialty or chosen field. Animation requires you to work your way up the totem pole, usually beginning with repetitive, supportive work that will eventually lead to increasingly creative work and more responsibility.