An animator is responsible for taking an idea and creating a series of drawings that can be used to bring the idea to life. An animator must be a very visual person that can also turn ideas into either lifelike or cartoon style drawings. Some animators use specialized computer programs to both draw and animate their ideas, but they still must have the fundamental understanding of drawing and creating as well as animation and film.
An animator must be able to work closely with others as he or she will usually work as part of a creative team. Excellent communication skills and an ability to work within a group are very important for an animator. He or she will also work with the professionals that will do the voices for the animation. There may be many revisions and changes to the original artwork so the animator must be flexible and open to making revisions.
In the new world of computer games and graphics animators are used to develop the characters, backgrounds and storyline in various games. Animators can also be used to provide graphics for educational programs, movies, television shows and advertisements. Some animators also work individually providing specific graphic animation for websites or other projects.
- Developing, creating and drawing animated characters, backgrounds and various components of animated film and video.
- Working closely with creative team members to draw and animate various characters within the project, program or script.
- Interviewing and interacting with clients to determine the specifications required for the project.
- Revising and modifying artwork as required by the creative team or the project supervisor or client.
- Understanding and using various computer programs to animate graphic designs and artwork.
