Computer animation - More than just drawing!
by Karin Evans
karin.evans@computeranimationschoolreview.com
Computer Animation School Review Columnist
A degree in computer animation is a fun way to get started in a fun career. Sure, there's hard work involved, and it takes a good deal of technical knowledge and creative input to succeed. But, with a computer animation degree behind you, you'll be ready to get started in any one of a range of careers that'll make your friends want to be you.
Computer Animation Skills are More Versatile than You Think
You might think that a computer animation degree will provide you with an extremely specialized qualification that'll limit the kind of jobs you can apply for when graduate. There's some truth in that if you've got your sights set on making blockbuster movies like
Toy Story or
Shrek. There aren't that many jobs in the movie industry, so what happens if you don't get one of them?
Well, computer animation jobs can be found in almost any industry. While the kind of work you'll be qualified for as a computer animator will be mainly in the motion picture or video industries, that's is a very broad category that doesn't just cover the animation of the next Finding Nemo. Jobs for computer animators are also found in advertising, education, and web design - anywhere that moving pictures are used to deliver a message.
And that's what you'll learn to do in your computer animation course - make moving pictures. How much fun is that!
What Exactly is Computer Animation?
Computer animation is effectively the art of applying computer technology to traditional animation techniques. It's cartoons for the 21st century. But, because computer technology is so advanced, there are many more types of image you can create than a pen and paper ever allowed.
To take advantage of the ever-increasing opportunities in the animation industry, you'll need more than just good drawing skills. You'll need a sound understanding of computer animation technologies and an eye for how to deliver a convincing visual message. A computer animation degree program will help you to develop and apply these skills.
About the Author
Karin Evans works for a government agency researching and writing reports to inform policy. Her previous experience includes teaching, editing, and sales and marketing - all in the field of English Literature and Language. Karin has graduate and doctoral degrees in English Language and Literature with a concentration in cultural studies.
Posted on May 27, 2005 at 11:46 PM
