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How do you become an animator and illustrator at the same time?
So, I read a Q&A from a professional Background (BG) Artist a few days ago. The BG said "a illustration skills don’t always translate to animation." So, it made me wonder more about the differences between the two fields.
They're both art-based careers, yet there's some differences I don't know yet. (I mean...besides the fact that animation is about making still images come to life vs illustration just being still art).
I know many animators are illustrators, but I don't know how they manage to do both. I may want to do both, too, in the future.
Are there any differences in preparing to study for either career? What are some differences between learning illustration vs animation?
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Nicole’s Answer
At the initial stage, in order to become an animator or illustrator, you need to learn the foundation in art and be able to draw almost everything. People, animals, buildings, plants. Daily practice is essential for building up the skill and training the hand.
Since our world is becoming even more technological, it is desirable to be able to work in Software programs (Adobe Creative Cloud). Although there is an option to work in the traditional style.
It is important for any artist to have a portfolio with the best work, so it is advisable to practice drawing in your free time. For the job of an animator, draw short stories. I think that the Background (BG) Artist profession, is one of those where you can work as an illustrator (draw backgrounds for animation) and animate it in the program. And so, it is possible only at the beginning to become an animator, and then to become an illustrator of books, for example. Or be an illustrator for video games and cartoons, and then, if you have the skill and portfolio, become an animator.
I would reccomend you to watch a video with BG Artist that worked for Disney, to learn more about this role:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3UP3V4SjgM
Since our world is becoming even more technological, it is desirable to be able to work in Software programs (Adobe Creative Cloud). Although there is an option to work in the traditional style.
It is important for any artist to have a portfolio with the best work, so it is advisable to practice drawing in your free time. For the job of an animator, draw short stories. I think that the Background (BG) Artist profession, is one of those where you can work as an illustrator (draw backgrounds for animation) and animate it in the program. And so, it is possible only at the beginning to become an animator, and then to become an illustrator of books, for example. Or be an illustrator for video games and cartoons, and then, if you have the skill and portfolio, become an animator.
I would reccomend you to watch a video with BG Artist that worked for Disney, to learn more about this role:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3UP3V4SjgM
Hi Nicole! Thank you for your response. I'll keep these tips in mind.
Tianna
Updated
Nivedha’s Answer
Great question. It's super fun to dive into the different, creative worlds of illustrating and animating. While they're both amazing artistic careers, they follow their own unique and exciting paths. Let's get into the details!
How to become an illustrator
* Build a strong foundation: Master core art skills like drawing, sketching, color theory, and composition. Find your unique style and a niche, such as children's books or game design.
* Create a portfolio: Showcase your work on a website or platforms like ArtStation and Behance. Use social media to share your process and connect with other artists. Work on personal projects to build your portfolio and gain experience.
* Pursue education: Consider a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), an illustration-specific diploma, or online courses from platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, and Udemy.
* Master the craft: Practice relentlessly, seek feedback from peers and mentors, and study other artists' work. Learn the business side of illustration, including licensing, pricing, and contracts, and stay current with industry software and trends.
How to become an animator
* Start with the basics: Master the 12 principles of animation, develop strong drawing skills, and research different animation styles (2D, 3D, etc.).
* Choose your education: Pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), a diploma program, or online courses from platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or iAnimate.
* Create a strong portfolio: Build a demo reel showcasing your best work on platforms like Behance or ArtStation. Gain experience through personal projects, internships, or freelance work.
* Master your tools and network: Learn industry-standard software like Maya, Blender, and Adobe Animate. Network with professionals, seek feedback, and stay updated on industry trends.
* Gain professional insights: Listen to podcasts and watch YouTube channels from experienced animators. Examples include Bloop Animation and interviews with artists from major studios like Pixar.
Learn it from top creators Top YouTube channels by illustrators
* Aaron Blaise: The Art of Aaron Blaise. A former Disney animator and director, Blaise shares his vast knowledge on art, animation, and illustration. His channel features comprehensive tutorials on animal anatomy, drawing techniques, and fine art painting.
* Ahmed Aldoori: Ahmed Aldoori. A concept artist and digital painter, Aldoori's channel is focused on helping artists improve. He shares tutorials, process videos, and sketchbook tours, with a focus on fundamentals like anatomy and design.
* Jake Parker: Jake Parker. Illustrator and cartoonist Jake Parker, creator of the "Inktober" art challenge, discusses illustration, comic creation, and the business of being a professional artist.
How to become an illustrator
* Build a strong foundation: Master core art skills like drawing, sketching, color theory, and composition. Find your unique style and a niche, such as children's books or game design.
* Create a portfolio: Showcase your work on a website or platforms like ArtStation and Behance. Use social media to share your process and connect with other artists. Work on personal projects to build your portfolio and gain experience.
* Pursue education: Consider a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), an illustration-specific diploma, or online courses from platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, and Udemy.
* Master the craft: Practice relentlessly, seek feedback from peers and mentors, and study other artists' work. Learn the business side of illustration, including licensing, pricing, and contracts, and stay current with industry software and trends.
How to become an animator
* Start with the basics: Master the 12 principles of animation, develop strong drawing skills, and research different animation styles (2D, 3D, etc.).
* Choose your education: Pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), a diploma program, or online courses from platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or iAnimate.
* Create a strong portfolio: Build a demo reel showcasing your best work on platforms like Behance or ArtStation. Gain experience through personal projects, internships, or freelance work.
* Master your tools and network: Learn industry-standard software like Maya, Blender, and Adobe Animate. Network with professionals, seek feedback, and stay updated on industry trends.
* Gain professional insights: Listen to podcasts and watch YouTube channels from experienced animators. Examples include Bloop Animation and interviews with artists from major studios like Pixar.
Learn it from top creators Top YouTube channels by illustrators
* Aaron Blaise: The Art of Aaron Blaise. A former Disney animator and director, Blaise shares his vast knowledge on art, animation, and illustration. His channel features comprehensive tutorials on animal anatomy, drawing techniques, and fine art painting.
* Ahmed Aldoori: Ahmed Aldoori. A concept artist and digital painter, Aldoori's channel is focused on helping artists improve. He shares tutorials, process videos, and sketchbook tours, with a focus on fundamentals like anatomy and design.
* Jake Parker: Jake Parker. Illustrator and cartoonist Jake Parker, creator of the "Inktober" art challenge, discusses illustration, comic creation, and the business of being a professional artist.