Freelance animators work on specific projects and move on to others once completed. They need artistic ability, knowledge of animation software, teamwork skills, and flexibility. A degree in design and animation is helpful, as is a portfolio and professional contacts. Finding work is challenging, but determination and self-motivation can lead to success.
A freelance animator performs animation services for those who have already hired them for a specific project. After the project is completed, the animator will move on to another project, working for someone else. Freelance animation is the perfect option for anyone who loves animation but can’t decide which area of the field they want to specialize in. A freelance animator might spend part of the year working on a film, a few weeks on a commercial or website, and then spend several months working with an animation team putting together a new video game. There are always many possibilities, and a successful freelancer can choose his tasks.
Not everyone has the necessary skills to work in freelance animation. In addition to possessing great artistic ability, animators must also be familiar with all major types of animation software. They must be able to work in a team, communicate their ideas effectively and be willing to lead and follow the instructions of others. It takes a lot of flexibility and the ability to shift gears, switching from one project to another, almost instantly.
To get started in freelance animation, you must first attend college to earn a degree or certificate in design and animation or a related field. Getting a professional education can teach you about the animation business, how to use computers and animation software, and help you gain a lot of hands-on animation experience. Any experience you can gain in college, through internship programs, labs, and other opportunities, will be a huge help once you start your career.
Use college as an opportunity to improve your drawing, planning, and animation skills. Participate in any extra class projects and take advantage of every chance to work together with other students on larger projects. Experiment, collaborate, and make the most of your education.
Before you can start showing your work as a freelance animator, you’ll need to create a portfolio. Your portfolio should contain all of your best work. This will be what potential clients will look over before hiring you. If you can, buy a domain name and put your portfolio on your own professional website. This will allow people to find your work quickly and easily.
Make some professional contacts. Get involved in the animation industry. Go to fairs, interact on websites and meet some successful freelance animators. These contacts could become the key to your success as a freelancer. Let people know what services you can offer and if you’re looking for work.
Finding work is the most challenging part of starting a career in freelance animation. Many freelance animators are also looking for work. There are several websites that help freelancers find clients looking for work, usually for a fee. Another option is to contact the companies directly and offer their services, a method that works best after you have some experience. Depending on your location, attending local business shows can also help you find customers.
Freelance animation is an exciting career, but it’s risky. Even the best freelancers can go several months between jobs. It’s important to keep promoting yourself even when you’re in the middle of another project because eventually the project will end and you’ll need to have other work lined up. Someone who has a lot of determination, can motivate themselves and enjoys being their own boss has a very good chance of succeeding in freelance animation.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
