What does an animator do?
From video games and anime, to Pixar and Disney movies – animations are everywhere and animation makers are the artists behind these creations. Using a series of images (known as frames) they create the illusion of movement. Working with hand-drawings, specialist animation software, or models and puppets; the methods used by an Animator will depend on their field. As an animator you could create special effects for a movie, develop characters for TV shows, design a fantasy world for a video game, work with advertising agencies on ad campaigns, or help design websites – all of which you could do working within an organisation or as a contracted freelancer.Is a career as an animator right for me?
If you’re highly creative, project-orientated and have a strong drive to succeed, then an animator job or career as an illustrator could be for you. Other desirable key skills and attributes of an animation maker include:
- an eye for design and movement
- attention to detail
- strong competencies in drawing
- aptitude for working with computers and learning new software
- excellent time-management.
How to become an animator
To work as an animation maker, you typically need a bachelor’s degree or a diploma in graphic arts, visual arts, animation, or a related field. Developing a strong portfolio is also crucial in showcasing your skills and creativity, which can be key to launching a successful animator career. A well-crafted portfolio demonstrates your abilities to potential employers and sets you apart in this competitive industry.
Every journey to study is individual and there are several paths you can take to reach your goals as an animation creator. At UniSQ, we offer the following degrees in the area of animation:
Average salary per week
$1108
Future demand
Strong
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Last updated May 2024.
Degree
Study mode
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Animator FAQs
What is the average animator salary?
You may be wondering, ‘how much do animators earn?’ The answer to this question will vary based on factors such as location, experience, and workplace setting. Animators working in highly specialised fields or with significant experience may earn more, especially in industries like film, gaming, or digital media, where demand for top talent is high. Please see the salary information on this page for further details.
What skills do animation makers need?
To be a successful animator creator, you should be proficient in the following programs, along with essential transferrable skills such as communication and teamwork:
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe InDesign
- Graphic Design
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Acrobat.
These skills form the backbone of a successful animator career and are highly valued by employers in the animation and visual arts industries.
Are animators in demand?
Yes, there is strong demand for animators, particularly as the entertainment, gaming, and digital media industries continue to expand. With advancements in technology and the increasing popularity of animated content across various platforms, the need for skilled animator creators is expected to remain robust.
How long does it take to become an animator?
The time it takes to become an animator can vary depending on your previous education, the training requirements of specific fields, and employment opportunities.
A good place to start when thinking about how to become an animator is looking into a university undergraduate degree. Completing a bachelor’s degree in animation typically takes around three years of full-time study or the part-time equivalent.
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