Animator

An animator is an artist who creates multiple images, which when sequenced together, create the illusion of movement. Animators can work in a variety of fields, including film, television, video games, and advertising.

Animators utilize a wide array of techniques, broadly categorized into traditional animation, stop-motion animation, and computer animation. Traditional animation involves hand-drawing or hand-painting images on transparent celluloid sheets (cels), which are then photographed against a painted background. Stop-motion animation involves physically manipulating real-world objects in small increments between individually photographed frames. Computer animation utilizes software to create and manipulate digital models and environments.

The role of an animator often involves more than just creating the visual movement. They may also be responsible for character design, storyboarding, and creating the overall visual style of a project. Depending on the size and scope of a project, animators may work individually or as part of a larger team, often collaborating with directors, writers, and other artists. Key skills for an animator include a strong understanding of anatomy, perspective, timing, and storytelling. The specific software and techniques required will vary depending on the medium and style of animation being used.