Career in Animation

Animation is defined as moving an object with rapid pace or making a still object alive by using various pictures and frames. The word 'animation' comes from the Latin word 'anima', which means ‘soul’. To become a good animator, one should have the basic skill of drawing and sketching. He/she should be able to produce the exact weight and dimensions ratio of an object and should have the knack of making action realistic. This apart, he/she should develop the skill of combining one action with the other by using the apt speed for a character and the exact timing for a particular action.

In animation, an object moves according to the mind of the animator. After the advent of computer and software, animators are finding it easy to produce the image of a character effortlessly. Over the years, animation has become a very lucrative job. Initially in India, animation was restricted to cartoons and video games. But now, animators are also hired for special effects in movies and even advertisements. As a result, many institutes in India are offering courses in animation.

Course Details
Many educational institutes in India are conducting courses in the field of animation. Most of the institutes in India are providing animation courses at diploma, degree and certificate levels. Some institutes in India are also providing courses at the postgraduate degree level, but it is very rare to find. To be admitted, one must have passed in 10+2 examination with not less than 45% marks, from any recognized state/national Board. For the postgraduate program in animation, students should have completed graduation from any recognized University.

Career Prospects
Animation is a great option for students who are adept at drawing and sketching, because it involves the use of artistic skills. After completing diploma and degree or postgraduate course in animation, one can avail the opportunity of working with organizations such as animation studios, which hire animators. One can also work as story board artist, character animator, animation background artist, layout artist, 2D animator, scanner operator, compositing artist, audio and video specialist, visualiser, texture artist, lighting artist, 3D artist or image editor, after pursing course in animation.

Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
Many institutes in India are providing training in animation to those who have passed 10+2, graduation or post graduation. Some of the prominent institutes offering courses in animation are Arena Multimedia, Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics (MAAC), Global School of Animation & Games (New Delhi), National Institute of Design (NID, Ahmedabad), J.J School of Arts, Zee Institute of Creative Arts (ZICA), Industrial Design Center (IDC) – IIT Mumbai and Academy of Animation & Gaming.

Remuneration
While working as a junior animator or a trainee, one can earn around Rs. 10000-Rs15000 per month. Those, who have three to five years’ experience in this field, can earn between Rs. 25000 and Rs40000 per month. A well experienced animator can be paid as much as Rs. 50000- Rs60000 per month.