Careers in Animation

Media careers, on the whole are relatively new in India. And, animation is perhaps in its nascent stage. Although all major cities are opening up to the idea of animation schools, the field is still fairly unexplored in terms of specializations. This translates to ceiling–free growth opportunities, new milestones and green territories to unearth. For a twelfth grader looking at a creative career, the broad scope of the field can be thus categorized –

• 2D/3D Animation.
  The application of 2D and 3D animation has surged now. Short commercials, YouTube channels, cartoons and fully fledged motion pictures alike rely on the varying versions of either type. As a 3D animator you will learn to create a gradual progression of steps through frames. And, make moving pictures in a 3-dimensional digital environment. As a 2D animator, you will learn to use traditional animation software/ create simplistic cell animation. Irrespective of the sub-field you choose, you will likely be using one of these two categories.
• Web Designing.
  Lack luster websites that used Gifs and flash animations are long gone. Today, user-friendly explainer videos with thematic animations, interesting DIY guides, short viral web series, are some of the many choices animators have to help spruce a website. Also in the era of frenzied display advertising, landing pages that draw attention benefit from good animation. If you are interested in creating websites, you will need to pursue both the above mentioned technologies.
• VFX.
  Visual effects like 2D and 3D are more of an animation sub–category itself. However, the difference is that it is a niche post-process likely to be supporting a different effort. For example, a 3D animation motion picture requires effects to be added to bring life to its characters. And the popular super hero series, the ‘Imax’ experiences all require large teams of VFX specialists who will transform ordinary human footages to the theatrical spectacles that they are. This sector is growing up to be a highly lucrative and sought after stream with VFX also transforming into a film genre. (Baahubali, India’s super-hero VFX effort won a National award and immense acclaim.)
• Game Designing.
  Smart phones have made hours of high definition gaming hassle-free and thus the demand of game designers is high too. Some roles include that of gaming artists, game developers, and game testers for iOS, android game applications as well as gaming software, websites and consoles. Besides, X-Box, Nintendo and Simulation Games are other game only sectors that require passionate game designers.
• Other Sectors.
  The e-learning industry heavily depends on animations of different categories for web tutorials. Similarly, multimedia designing is an amalgamation of different media. It is supported by animations in text, imagery and graphics- of varying degrees that are used both offline and on the internet. Besides, freelancers in the field are in great demand as the industry tends to work on project basis.

Some Important Facts –

• For individuals who are fascinated by art, images and imagination itself, animation is a viable career option irrespective of education background.

• Since the number of good studios is on the rise and affordable animation services are woven together, India is recognised as a major outsourcing destination as well.
• Just as in the case of any other industries, animation provides opportunities in verticals like project management, writing, sales, business development and finance.

With Chota Bheems and Bal Hanuman taking Indian animation to every home, the industry is looking at establishing itself as a major revenue channel. It is strengthened by the fact that is no longer a mere transmitter of the creations of ‘Walt Disneys’ of the world. If you are looking at being an animator, dig deeper into the creative process, and the technical knowledge that go into it.
A highly creative and immensely fulfilling profession awaits you.