How to Become an Animator: Career, Courses, After 12th, Jobs, Skills, Salary

How to become an Animator: Quick Facts

The following information is presented in tabular form as quick facts:

What does an Animator do

• Multimedia artists create special effects, characters, or scenes in films, ads, website design, animation, or video games using a variety of technologies and artistic methods. 
• They are professionals who produce multiple images called frames, which when sequenced together create an illusion of movement.
• Multimedia artists can also produce storyboards and plot lines to help establish a story in a video game or animated film. 
• These professionals make unique work by combining many technologies and materials such as typography, graphics, and music.

Steps to Become an Animator

Given below is a stage in-depth here to help you understand the path to become Multimedia Artists and Animators:

• Step 1 – Make a Decision: One of the most crucial and first steps to take to pursue a career as a multimedia artist and animator is to make a decision. If a candidate is interested in multimedia, special effects, etc., and wants to learn more about the animation field, this is the course for them. When considering a job as a multimedia artist, candidates should consider both the advantages and disadvantages.
• Step 2 – Clear 10+2: Make sure you know what your interests are and students who want to become multimedia artists and animators must pass their 10+2 or any other similar course with at least 50% marks from any Indian board that has been approved. This course's selection is dependent on a student's performance on the standardized tests.
• Step 3- Entrance Examination: Entrance exams like the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA), National Institute of Design Exam (NID), All India Entrance Examination for Design (AIEED), National Institute of Fashion Technology Entrance Examination (NIFT), etc. are administered by a number of institutions and colleges for the students who want to pursue a career as multimedia artists and animators. Students must take the entrance exams in order to be admitted to their selected college. Admissions are based on academic merit.
• Step 4 – Choose the correct college: One of the most critical steps toward becoming Multimedia Artists and Animators is choosing the right college to complete the degree. Colleges should be chosen based on their placements, rankings, syllabus and curriculum, course-related activities, infrastructure, and so on. Being a student at the correct institution boosts your chances of receiving a decent education and career after you finish your course.
• Step 5 – Pursue a bachelor’s program: Students are eligible for admission to the applicable specialization in the bachelor level program after finishing a 10 + 2 level of school education with an aggregate of 50% marks. After finishing the 10+2 level of education, students can pursue B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) Animation and VFX, B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) Animation, and VFX, B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) Animation and Gaming, B.V.A (Bachelor of Visual Arts), etc. program.

Type of Multimedia Artists and Animators

Some of the top job profiles of Multimedia Artists and Animators are given below-

Character animator

Character animators produce animated figures that move to tell stories in various entertainment series such as movies, television shows, mobile apps, and video games. Character animators create appealing character animations based on project design parameters. Emotions, mood, actions, gestures, personalities, and attitudes are all added through animation effects. To develop character movements, character animators interact with lead animators. A Character Animator's average monthly pay is INR 54,368 per month.

Compositor

Composers create the final picture's frame, shot, or sequence. They combine all of the numerous visual components, such as computer-generated images, action videos, and paintings, into a single image and shot. Composers take into account the visual elements of a scenario. In India, the average salary for a Compositor is INR 3,86,938.

Lead animator

Lead animators' main responsibilities include scheduling, coordinating, tracking, and evaluating their team's work and its impact on the project. In movie studios, television studios, or game development businesses, lead animators are known as "Animator in Chiefs" and are in charge of animation projects. They motivate and develop teammates, as well as function as technical and artistic mentors. In India, the average annual compensation for a Lead Animator is INR 7,08,332.

Animator

Animators generate animations and images for a variety of applications, including television, video games, internet marketing, online advertising, and website development. Anyone pursuing a career as an animator combines creativity with technology, creating designs for advertisements, movies, cartoons, web media, and more utilizing digital tools. In India, the average compensation for an animator is INR 3,34,164.

Game designer

Characters, levels, riddles, art, and animation are all part of the job of a game designer. They may also write computer code in a variety of programming languages. Famous game designers may also be in charge of project management and testing early versions of video games, depending on their responsibilities. In India, the average income for a Videogame Designer is INR 5,59,542.

How to become an Animator in India?

Full-time undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs in arts and design are available to Indian students. To pursue a career as a Multimedia Artist or Animator, students may enroll in a related specialization such as Visual Arts, Animation and VFX, Animation and Gaming, Visual Communication, and so on. Below is a general outline of how to prepare for a profession as a Multimedia Artists and Animators.

School Level Preparation

Students must have obtained a cumulative grade point average of 50 percent or equivalent from a recognized board after completing the 10+2 level of study in any stream.

How to Become an Animator after 12th

After finishing high school, students can now enroll in a short-term professional course in the related sector. Full-time degree programs will be available. The following is thorough information on how to prepare for a PG and UG course to make a career as Multimedia Artists and Animators.

UG Preparation

• Bachelor degrees such as B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) Animation and VFX, B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) Animation and VFX, B.Des. (Bachelor of Design) Visual Communication, B.F.A. (Bachelor of Fine Arts), B.V.A (Bachelor of Visual Arts), etc. are available at the undergraduate level. 
• Applicants in the 12th grade must have a cumulative score of at least 50 percent.
• Take a national or state-level entrance exam to get admission.

PG Preparation

• Postgraduate courses require a bachelor's degree in the same discipline.
• M.A. (Master of Arts) Animation and VFX, M.Sc. (Master of Science) Animation and Multimedia, M.Des. (Master of Design) Animation, M.F.A.(Master of Fine Arts), M.V.A. (Master of Visual Arts), etc. are some of the PG degrees available.
• Scores from entrance examinations are required for admission.

Animation Courses

B.Sc. Animation

BSc Animation is a 3 year UG course that deals with the process of drawing, designing, and preparation of photographic sequences which are integrated with multimedia.

Admission Process for B.Sc. (Animation)

Admission to the BSc Animation program is determined by the marks earned in the 10+2 level. The general admissions procedure is described below.

• Depending on the college, admission application forms are available both offline and online.
• The college will review all of the applications and select the best individuals for interviews. These candidates will be included on a merit list.
• The candidates who have been shortlisted will be contacted for document verification and personal interview.
• Candidates who are considered to be eligible will be admitted to the program.
• Students interested in pursuing a B.Sc in Animation will be admitted only at the start of the academic year.

Eligibility Criteria for B.Sc. (Animation)

Admission to BSc in Animation varies per college. The majority of colleges accept applicants based on their performance in the 10+2 or equivalent exams.

• To apply for the program, you must have a minimum of a 50 percent aggregate in your 10+2 exam from a recognized college/board.
• At the 10+2 level, a minimum aggregate score of 50% (relaxation of 5%, i.e. 45 percent for SC/ST/OBC applicants).

B.Sc. Animation and Multimedia

BSc Animation and Multimedia is a 3 year UG program that provides advanced expertise in multimedia, 2D and 3D animation technologies, visual effects, and more. 

Admission Process for B.Sc. Animation and Multimedia

Admission to the BSc Animation and multimedia program is determined by the marks earned in the 10+2 level. The general admissions procedure is described below.

• Students who have received a minimum of 50% in class 10+2 or any other equivalent examination are admitted to institutes that offer a BSc animation and Multimedia program.
• Interested candidates must apply for this course, and once the college admissions authorities approve their eligibility, they must pay the required admission fee to complete their enrollment.

Eligibility Criteria for B.Sc. Animation and Multimedia

The following are the requirements for pursuing a BSc Animation and Multimedia Course at one of India's top colleges or universities:

• Interested candidates must have completed 10th grade in all subjects with a minimum of 50 percent aggregate from a recognized educational board.
• Passed a recognized board's Class 12 or equivalent exam in any discipline with a minimum of 50% aggregate.

B.Sc. Multimedia

BSc Multimedia is a 3 year UG program that incorporates intensive design and development coursework. Admissions to universities that offer this course are based on merit. Throughout the course, students use multimedia tools such as innovative graphics and animations, as digitalization has been gaining speed in recent times.

Admission Process for B.Sc. Multimedia

Students who are interested in pursuing a BSc in Multimedia can apply right away after completing their intermediate degree in any subject. Prior knowledge of related areas such as graphic design, computer graphics, and animation, however, is required.

Eligibility Criteria for B.Sc. Animation and Multimedia

The following are the requirements for pursuing a BSc Multimedia Course at one of India's top colleges or universities:

• To be admitted to this course, candidates must have finished their intermediate degree (10+2) from a recognized board with a minimum score of 50%.
• Entrance examinations are also held by some colleges and institutes in order to admit students. 

MFA

MFA is a two-year practice-based PG program that focuses primarily on the visual and performing arts. It focuses on the use of design and other embellishments on commonplace items to make them more appealing and presentable with a touch of art. 

Admission Process for MFA

• This course's admissions process is primarily conducted through entrance tests or on the basis of merit.
• In both circumstances, an interview will be required as part of the final selection process. It is entirely reliant on these two factors, and anyone with good creative abilities can easily gain entry.
• Candidates who do not pass the entrance exam and screening/interview will not be admitted into the program.
• The application can be downloaded on the respective institute's website or received through the college's admissions office.
• You must complete the application with all required information and submit the documents asked by the college.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants who want to take the JMI must meet the minimum prerequisites. Here are a few examples:

• Candidates must have graduated from a recognized university, college, or institution to be eligible for the exam.
• Marks (General) Qualification: In education, a minimum of 50 percent is required.

Course Admission: Important Tips

How to apply for an exam?

• Candidates must go to JMI's official website.
• On the website's homepage, click the 'Register Now' option.
• Create a new profile and then log in to apply.
• To the best of your ability, fill out the JMI application form.
• Please upload the necessary documentation.
• After paying the JMI application fee, submit your JMI application form.

How to prepare for the exam?

• Keep an eye out for the most recent syllabus and exam format.
• Download previous year’s papers and practice mock examinations.
• Look up videos and tutorials to master the essentials.
• Take mocks while keeping an eye on the clock.

How to become an Animator Abroad

UK

• The United Kingdom has a number of Multimedia Artists and Animators courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Top specializations are Animation and Video Game design and development, Directing Animation and Digital Effects, etc.
• To study in UK universities, students must have passed the TOEFL or IELTS exam.
• Applications are to be submitted online.
• The average annual income for an animator in the United Kingdom is £31,161.

Top Colleges

USA

• A number of Multimedia Artists and Animators courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels are available in the USA.
• Candidates should be aware of the minor requirements for admission to the Multimedia Artists and Animators program in the United States.
• The candidates are required to score well in the TOEFL exam. 
• In order to be admitted to the United States, you must submit a variety of documentation. 
• The average annual income for Multimedia Artists and Animators in the United States of America is $68,928.

Top Colleges

Canada

• Canada also offers a number of Multimedia Artists and Animators courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Top specializations are Bachelor of Fine Arts in 3D Modeling Animation Art & Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation, Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2D/3D Character Animation, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Effects for Film and Television, etc.
• The websites of the colleges/universities are utilized to apply for these programs.
• The candidates are required to score well in the TOEFL or IELTS exam. 
• International students must be able to converse in both English and French.
• The average annual income for Multimedia Artists and Animators in Canada is C$55000.

Top Colleges in Canada

Australia

Australia provides a number of Multimedia Artists and Animators courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels in its different universities.

• Top specializations are Designing, Games & Graphic Programming, Game Design & Development, etc.
• Most Australian universities offer master's degrees in arts, design, and animation. 
• Applications are to be submitted online to take admission in these courses.
• International applicants must submit the results of one English proficiency test.
• The average annual income for Multimedia Artists and Animators in Australia is AU$66200.

Top Colleges in Australia

Benefits of a career as an Animator

• Personal Expression: One of the most appealing aspects of being an animator is the opportunity to express yourself via your work. While you may work within the limits of a script, you are free to give each and every visual aspect of the universe your own unique touch.
• Freedom to be creative: If you're animating your own cartoon, you have complete creative control over the outcome.
• Relationships in Business: After being contracted to work on a certain project, many of the greatest creative teams of all time met. These alliances can last a lifetime, but at the very least, they can help you gain access to bigger and better chances.
• Flexible Working Hours: If you're working on your own project, you'll have the unique opportunity to choose your own working hours. It's entirely up to you whether you want to work at 2 p.m. or 3 a.m.
• Creative Expansion: You will find that being an animator is a uniquely tough career that will force you to expand your brain and always push yourself to be more and more creative with your art, in addition to the creative freedom to draw whatever you want.

Skills Required to Become an Animator

Salary of an Animator in India

Average Annual Salary

Specialization wise Salary

Gender wise Salary

Experience wise