3 answers
Miriam
Student
Jacksonville, North Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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What is it like being an animator, and is it worth it?
I’m 18 years old, pursuing my associates of arts. For the past few years I’ve animated personally for my own enjoyment. I want to become an animator, but I’m not sure if that’s the best path to choose.
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3 answers
Alexander Laurence
Childrens Art Instructor
4
Answers
Sonoma, California
Updated
Alexander’s Answer
Hello Miriam! I've had these exact same doubts before about my animation career. One thing that really helped me was understanding how big the animation umbrella really is. There's so many sub categories of animation that you may find super appealing, while others you may not want to do. It really helped me when I had the opportunity to visit Disney Pixar's Studio and see all the separate departments that go into making animation.
I figured out I enjoy storyboarding rather than physically animating better, so any kind of studio tours might benefit you to see if animation sounds like something you'd enjoy perusing. I believe if you find joy in animating and have a genuine passion for it then following that path and seeing where it takes you is a great career opportunity. If it makes you happy that's the best thing you can hope to achieve, don't be afraid to try new types of animating like game development classes or 3D modeling.
Good Luck!
Alexander
I figured out I enjoy storyboarding rather than physically animating better, so any kind of studio tours might benefit you to see if animation sounds like something you'd enjoy perusing. I believe if you find joy in animating and have a genuine passion for it then following that path and seeing where it takes you is a great career opportunity. If it makes you happy that's the best thing you can hope to achieve, don't be afraid to try new types of animating like game development classes or 3D modeling.
Good Luck!
Alexander
Flower xu
41
Answers
Updated
Flower’s Answer
Being an animator is both fun and a bit challenging. You get to turn ideas into stories, bring characters to life, and show off your creativity. But it can also mean working long hours and always learning new things as tools and trends change. Whether it feels "worth it" depends on how much you love the process, not just the end result.
It's great that what you're studying matches what you love. Many people spend years figuring that out, so you're already ahead of the game. My advice? Keep following your passion and try new things without worrying too much. You're young, and this is the perfect time to explore, try different things, and even make mistakes. Don't stress about finding the "perfect" path right now.
Whatever happens—whether things go as planned or not—what's important is to think about your experiences. Look back on what you've done, see what worked and what didn't, and keep getting better. Everything you do is valuable if you learn from it.
So if animation excites you, keep at it. The journey will teach you more than any single decision ever could.
It's great that what you're studying matches what you love. Many people spend years figuring that out, so you're already ahead of the game. My advice? Keep following your passion and try new things without worrying too much. You're young, and this is the perfect time to explore, try different things, and even make mistakes. Don't stress about finding the "perfect" path right now.
Whatever happens—whether things go as planned or not—what's important is to think about your experiences. Look back on what you've done, see what worked and what didn't, and keep getting better. Everything you do is valuable if you learn from it.
So if animation excites you, keep at it. The journey will teach you more than any single decision ever could.
Wyatt s Miles
Animator
35
Answers
Dayton, ID
Updated
Wyatt s’s Answer
Dear Miriam,
First of all, that's Awesome that you've been animating because you enjoy it. What kind of animation do you enjoy the most?
Personally, I don't subscribe to the idea of choosing a career solely based on income, but hey, that's just me. I think it's wise to pursue work that at least interests you; even better if it's something that you love.
I chose to pursue a career in Animation and I've not regretted it yet. There have been years when there just wasn't any Animation work to be found, and I've learned to rely on some of my other interests and skills to get by. Persistently pursuing your dreams, while flexibly and patiently doing what is necessary along your journey, is a formula that would work for anyone.
Sincerely,
Wyatt
First of all, that's Awesome that you've been animating because you enjoy it. What kind of animation do you enjoy the most?
Personally, I don't subscribe to the idea of choosing a career solely based on income, but hey, that's just me. I think it's wise to pursue work that at least interests you; even better if it's something that you love.
I chose to pursue a career in Animation and I've not regretted it yet. There have been years when there just wasn't any Animation work to be found, and I've learned to rely on some of my other interests and skills to get by. Persistently pursuing your dreams, while flexibly and patiently doing what is necessary along your journey, is a formula that would work for anyone.
Sincerely,
Wyatt