Animation - an introductory guide

Animation is a method in which figures are manipulated to appear as moving images. Commonly the effect of animation is achieved by a rapid succession of sequential images that minimally differ from each other. Animation can be of 5 types- Traditional Animation,2 D Animation, 3D Animation, Motion Graphics, Stop Motion. In traditional animation, images are drawn or painted by hand on transparent celluloid sheets . Most animations today are made with computer-generated imagery (CGI). 2D computer animation can be used for stylistic reasons, low bandwidth, or faster real-time renderings. Stop Motion technique is applied to two and three-dimensional objects like paper cut outs, puppets or clay figures.
Animators are artists who specialize in creating animation. Apart from short films, feature films, television series, and other media dedicated to the display of moving images, animation is also prevalent in video games, advertising, motion graphics, animated GIFs, user interfaces, and visual effects.

Typical areas of focus include the following:
Fine arts: Teaches classical applications of color theory, architecture, character movement, layout, composition and lighting, which are a solid foundation for animation careers.
Modeling: Helps specialise as a 3D Modeler in creating surfaces and anatomy resulting in realistic and believable models and characters, typically for games, CGI, effects, movie and television animation.
Computer Animation: Teaches 2D and 3D animation techniques and prepare to apply them using software such as Autodesk Maya.
Special Effects: Teaches creation of photo grade effects for character traits, weather elements .

Some of the skills are inborn- like a keen observation sense and ability to see how things and people move and be able to recreate that movement. Other skills that can be honed are Artistic Ability (to create storyboards, put finishing touches on CGIs), Storytelling Ability (with a sense of timing and pace, character expression and emotions, character development), and Technical and Software Knowledge.
Classes are generally small, instructors are often professionals, and students have opportunity for hands-on learning and work experience, including internships. Studies range from full-degree programs (including B.A., B.S., M.A., and M.F.A programs) to short-term courses and workshops aimed at developing specific skills or continuing professional development. Some programs are broad and offer a well-rounded approach (including liberal arts courses), while others are more focused on specific areas of the industry, like architectural design or video games. Some of the coursework in an animation program:
* Art and design classes to develop drawing and illustrating skills
* Instruction in dance, expression, and choreography to aid in understanding movement
* Production, music, and narrative classes to enhance story-telling skills
* Technology and computer courses for animation and editing

With the increased use of computer generated imagery (CGI) technology, animation careers are becoming increasingly technical. Training will be required in various software programs, working knowledge of math and physics and general knowledge of various computer operating systems. Among the most important skills taught by computer animation colleges is how to effectively use a wide range of imaging, animation and production software. Software is what enables you to bring characters to life on the big screen or the computer monitor—everything from movements to clothing textures to weather effects is a product of animation technology. You can expect to learn the following software programs in your computer animation degree:
Audio editing: Audacity, Adobe Audition, WavePad
Image creation and editing: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Aperture, Corel PaintShop, GIMP
Motion graphics: Adobe After Effects, Adobe Flash
3D animation, rendering, compositing, lighting and texture: Autodesk Maya, Autodesk 3ds Max, DigiCel FlipBook, Pixar Renderman
Video editing: Adobe Premiere, Windows MovieMaker, Apple Final Cut, CyberLink PowerDirector
Game creation: Unreal, Unity, Game Maker

Employment can be found in the following sectors
Film/TV/Advertising: Disney, Pixar and Dreamworks use animators - including traditional animation, stop-motion animation, and computer-generated images (CGI)
Video Games: Electronic Arts (EA), Nintendo and others employ a huge employer of animators
Law/Medicine/Military: Animators could be employed to recreate crime scenes, or work as a team designing simulators for medical or military procedures

Some common tasks that animators in any field do in a normal day's work:
* Drawing storyboards for key scenes and creating realistic models
* Designing animated environments including backgrounds, sets and objects
* Designing characters
* Photograph actors' movements and animate as 3-D characters
* Creating each frame
* Calculating timing of movements and matching it with script and soundtrack requirements
* Using computer software such as Modo, Maya, Lightwave, and Softimage
* Working as part of a team (directors, game designers, actors) to create games, movies and visual effects
* Client interaction and coordination for pitching ideas, developing concepts and timelines, monitoring deadlines