Post 3 – 2D Animator Role
A 2D animator creates animated content by bringing static images to life in a two-dimensional space, often through frame-by-frame sequential drawing using specialised software. Their responsibilities include storyboarding, character design, and animating scenes for various media such as films, TV shows, and video games. This role requires strong storytelling skills in addition to artistic ability.
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/animation/production/animator-animation
I want to be a 2D or Traditional animator!!
Examples of productions include Ethel & Ernest, Horrid Henry, and The Tiger Who Came to Tea.
2D animators create each frame by hand. Nowadays, many animators use animation software in conjunction with a graphics tablet and pen for this purpose. These animators focus more on the overall action and character performance in a scene rather than on producing the finished ‘line’ that appears on screen. They typically create a few clean and on-model drawings as needed for the assistant animator to reference. These reference drawings are commonly referred to as tie-downs.
What are animators’ responsibilities?
- Storytelling: The art of bringing characters and objects to life in a way that effectively communicates a story or message.
- Design: The process of developing storyboards, characters, and backgrounds.
- Animation: The technique of drawing each frame to simulate movement and action, often utilising a graphics tablet and animation software.
- Visual Effects: The creation of special effects and the animation of scenes.
- Collaboration: Working alongside a team of professionals, including art directors, fellow animators, and game designers.
What skills and Tools do you need:
- Software: Proficient in animation software, including industry-standard programs such as Adobe Animate.
- Drawing: Skilled in sketching designs and understanding character drawing techniques.
- Storytelling: Strong understanding of narrative and the ability to use movement to convey emotions and meanings.
- Collaboration: Capable of both giving and receiving feedback and working effectively within a team.
https://nuttyproductions.squarespace.com/showreel
What to include in a showreel??
Had a chat with Alina Besanidou, a 2D animator from Blinkink Studio, over coffee about what to include in the animation showreel, and she suggested rough animation, tie-downs, and a bit of cleanup. The animation doesn’t need to be entirely composed and clean.
If i had to define myself as an a 2D Animator and Illustrator, i think i would focus on puting my best 2D work in my showreel.
https://www.screenskills.com/starting-your-career/building-your-portfolio/how-to-make-a-showreel-for-film-or-tv/