A 3D animator is an artist who designs animated graphics and puts them into a sequence that we see in motion pictures, websites, magazines and other media too. 3D animation artists also work for the development of video games and other areas of media where animation is required. These individuals are sometimes referred to as 3D artists or 3D graphic artists.
3D animator responsibilities are to develop unique and attractive animations for different target groups. Almost all of us have seen the animated motion pictures, ad films and also the animated content that appears on web and television channels. This content is the brainchild of animators who get the brief from clients, creative director or administering authorities and accordingly design the animation and also enhance its visual appearance by adding various attributes to the animation such as colors, sound, light, environment, etc.
Animation is not just a means of entertainment but also a very effective tool to spread awareness. Educational institutes and organizations these days use animated instructional material in order to impart knowledge and training. Here the 3D animators are expected to blend knowledge and entertainment in an animated format to produce infotainment content for the ease of target audience.
To complete a project, a 3D animator has to execute the following duties:
3D animators may also pitch the clients and perform administrative tasks if they are not engaged in a project. 3D animators also try to enhance their knowledge and skills by reading about the latest happenings in the animation industry and learning new software packages and updated features in the existing packages.
Skills of a 3D Animator
3D animation is not an ordinary job. A 3D animator has to be highly creative and should be experienced in working with a number of applications including but not limited to Maya, Adobe Flash, Adobe Creative Suite, Cinema 4D, and other applications used in graphic designing and animation. It is not just the technical knowledge that makes you an animator. You also need to understand the esthetics of visual communication in order to satisfy the clients' requirements. Team work is the key to deliver excellent results in this profession. Artistic vision is also important because working with software without an imagination will not bear fruits.
Becoming a 3D Animator
To become a successful 3D animator, you need at least a bachelor's or associate degree in graphic design and/or experience in graphic and multimedia design. You can work as a freelancer or with an organization.
Career Scope for 3D Animator
Animation is happening all around, and to make a career in this profession will be a wise decision provided that you are extremely passionate arts and communication. As you start working, you can expect around $51,000 salary. As you progress in your career and move up in the hierarchy, you can earn around $65,000 to $80,000. Salary varies with the position and location you are offered.
3D animator responsibilities describe the nature of this profession and the qualifications of a person who works in this position. If you are an artist by nature and a geek by heart, then this is the right profession for you where you can easily follow your passion and also earn a livelihood through it.