It takes lots of creativity and computer skills to be a 3D animator. These professionals use the most advanced software to create animated characters, environments from photos and real-world objects. Industry jobs are often in film and television, gaming and advertising. To be a 3D animator you must have excellent computer knowledge, be a team player, creative and always willing to learn more and advance your skills. The software used for 3D animation is constantly being revolutionized and your skills must be cutting-edge so your work stays fresh.
Education
Animators working in 3D often have a bachelor's degree and multiple certificates in important software tools. At a university, a 3D animator may major in design or computer engineering. Design programs at major schools such as the School of Visual Arts in New York City allow students to learn the overall knowledge of the design field and then specialize in animation, advertising or other areas. When you are starting out or working freelance, certificates acknowledging your mastery of important software such as Adobe Creative Suite, modo, Softimage or AutoCAD are key.
Portfolio
Recent graduates use strong portfolios to get their first jobs. The final year of university often concentrates on making a portfolio that shows the breadth and quality of your work. Have a portfolio that shows your creativity as well as technical ability to rework existing animated environments. When you start in this field, it is common to be reworking existing environments, either enhancing or adding 3D and multimedia elements.
Skills
A successful 3D animator must have creativity, the best computer programming skills, patience to work through long hours of code and be a team player. It is common to be working as part of a team, with each member taking on one part of a larger project, communication skills are key. To advance in the field it is also important to be up-to-date with the latest trends in the field by following major magazines and blogs covering animation.
Career Paths
These 3D animators often work for the gaming industry, film and television or in advertising agencies. Most of the positions in 3D animation are located in major cities. Film and television requires often working on massive scale projects requiring excellent communication skills and the ability to see the big picture while buried in small programming details. If you want to work in the gaming industry, you should have intimate knowledge of the company's existing games, since it is likely that work in entry-level positions will have you working on their current titles. Advertisers employ animators to create digital campaigns for the clients, work that ends up in interactive digital campaigns.
