Become a3D Animator

Being a 3D animator means entering a field where your creativity knows no bounds. You can transform ideas into visual stories that captivate audiences globally. 

With the growing demand for animated content in films, games, and online, your skills will be more valuable than ever!

• Bring characters to life.
• Work in film and gaming.
• Blend art with technology.
• Create immersive experiences.

A 3D animator uses computer software to create moving images of characters, scenes, and objects. 

They take the static models crafted by 3D modellers and give them motion and personality. This could be as simple as making a character wave their hand or as complex as choreographing an intense battle scene.

Every day as a 3D animator, you get to work on different projects that involve storytelling, model building, and even problem solving as you figure out how to make your animations more believable and engaging. 

Whether you’re working in a team or developing a solo project, your role is important in shaping how the final piece looks and feels. It’s about making the impossible possible right from your computer.

As a 3D animator, you can find broad opportunities across various industries. Your skills can bring stories to life in many fascinating contexts!

Film and Television

Create stunning sequences for movies or TV shows.

Video Games

Design characters and environments that gamers will interact with.

Advertising

Produce eye catching animations for commercials and digital ads.

Virtual Reality

Develop immersive experiences that transport users to different worlds.

Education

Create educational materials that make learning fun and interactive.

Medical Visualisation

Help visualise complex biological processes for educational and diagnostic purposes.

As a 3D animator, you’ll need a mix of artistic talent and technical adaptability.

• Creativity
• Technical skills
• Attention to detail
• Patience
• Problem Solving
• Teamwork

Certain STEAM subjects can provide a great foundation for a career in 3D animation. Here’s what can help:

Art

Understanding basic principles of form, colour, and design.

Computer Science

Getting to grips with the software and technical aspects of animation.

Mathematics

Helpful for mastering animation software and understanding motion.

Media Studies

Offers insights into storytelling and media production.

Physics

Useful for creating realistic animations based on how objects move and interact in real life.

As a 3D animator, you get to do some really cool stuff! Imagine working on the next big superhero movie or an epic video game. 

You could create lifelike dragons, futuristic cities, or magical effects that leave audiences in awe. Your work can transport people to different worlds and make incredible stories come alive.

Animate Characters

Bring digital characters to life with realistic movements and expressions. Imagine creating a character that becomes the next big hit in a movie or game.

Design Special Effects

Develop stunning visual effects for films, TV shows, and video games. Picture yourself creating explosions, magical spells, or futuristic landscapes.

Collaborate with Storytellers

Work closely with writers and directors to bring stories to life through animation. Envision contributing to the narrative of a blockbuster film or a popular TV series.

Experiment with Motion Capture

Use motion capture technology to record real-life movements and apply them to digital characters. Think about the joy and pride of seeing your animations move just like real people.

Create Virtual Worlds

Design and animate entire virtual environments for games and VR experiences. Imagine building a world that players can explore and interact with.

Innovate with New Technologies

Stay at the forefront of technology by experimenting with the latest animation software and tools. Picture yourself using state of the art tech to push the boundaries of what’s possible in animation.

Australia has produced some amazing talent in the field of 3D animation.

Amber Naismith

As an Animation Producer at Animal Logic, Amber has played a crucial role in the production of major films like “The LEGO Batman Movie” and “The LEGO Movie.” Her expertise in managing animation teams and overseeing complex projects has made her a key figure in the industry. Amber’s ability to blend creativity with technical precision ensures that each project she works on is both visually stunning and technically sound.

Sharon Taylor

Serving as the Chief Operating Officer at Animal Logic, Sharon has been instrumental in the company’s success. She also holds the position of Executive Chair of the Vancouver Chapter of Women in Animation, where she advocates for gender diversity and inclusion in the animation industry. Sharon’s leadership and commitment to fostering a supportive environment for women in animation have earned her widespread recognition.

Jacquie Trowell

As the Co-director of “100% Wolf” at Flying Bark Productions, Jacquie is responsible for the creative direction of the project, from story development to the final product. Her innovative approach to animation and storytelling has helped bring unique and engaging content to audiences. Jacquie’s work demonstrates the power of animation to tell compelling stories and create memorable characters.

Kristen Souvlis

Co-founder of Like A Photon Creative, Kristen has produced several acclaimed films, including “Combat Wombat” and “The Wishmas Tree.” Her company focuses on creating high-quality, family-friendly content that resonates with audiences globally. Kristen’s dedication to producing meaningful and entertaining animations has made her a prominent figure in the industry.

A successful 3D animator isn’t just skilled technically—they also possess traits that enhance their creativity and work ethic.

• Creative
• Patient
• Meticulous
• Cooperative
• Flexible
• Passionate

Bachelor of Animation

This degree provides a comprehensive understanding of animation principles, including character design, motion graphics, and 3D modelling. Institutions like Murdoch University in Western Australia offer specialised courses that cover both theoretical and practical aspects of 3D animation. Students learn about animation software, storytelling, and visual effects.

Bachelor of Creative Arts (Animation and Game Design)

Focuses on the creative and technical skills needed to design engaging animations and games. Universities such as the University of Western Australia (UWA) offer robust programs that include hands-on projects and industry placements. Courses cover topics like game design, character animation, and interactive media.

Autodesk Certified Professional

Obtain certifications in Autodesk software like Maya and 3ds Max. These certifications enhance your technical skills and industry knowledge, making you more competitive in the job market.

Professional Development Workshops

Attend workshops and seminars offered by industry bodies such as the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in 3D animation. These events provide opportunities for networking and professional growth.

Combining degrees or interdisciplinary studies can open up even more opportunities in your 3D animation career. 

For instance, pairing a degree in Animation with Computer Science can give you a strong technical background, allowing you to work on more complex projects and stand out in the industry. By blending different areas of study, you can develop a unique skill set that is highly valued by employers.

Another option is to combine your animation degree with studies in Business or Marketing. This combination can help you understand the business side of the creative industry, giving you the tools to manage projects, lead teams, or even start your own animation studio. Interdisciplinary studies not only broaden your knowledge but also enhance your creativity by exposing you to different perspectives.

Finally, don’t forget the value of learning through short courses and workshops. These can be in areas like game design, visual effects, or even storytelling. By continuously expanding your skill set, you stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies, making you a versatile and innovative 3D animator.

During your studies to become a 3D animator, you’ll look into a wide range of fascinating subjects. You’ll learn the fundamentals of animation, including character design, modelling, and texturing. You’ll also explore the principles of movement, ensuring your animations are realistic and captivating.

You’ll get hands-on experience with software used in design agencies, such as Autodesk Maya and Blender, mastering the tools used by professionals. Your studies will also cover storyboarding, allowing you to plan and visualise your animations before bringing them to life.

Additionally, you’ll learn about lighting, shading, and rendering, which are needed to create visually stunning animations. Understanding these aspects will help you create depth and realism in your work, making your animations truly stand out.

Volunteer Projects

Participate in community projects or industry hackathons to build your portfolio and gain real experience. Volunteering with organisations like the Australian Film, Television and Radio School can provide practical skills and networking opportunities.

Internships and Apprenticeships

Gain hands-on experience by working with animation studios, film production companies, or game developers. Internships provide practical insights and valuable industry connections.

If you’re not keen on pursuing a full university degree, there are other pathways to becoming a 3D animator.

3D Animation Workshops

Enrol in short courses focusing on character animation, visual effects, and motion graphics. Murdoch University offers workshops that delve into advanced techniques and applications, providing hands-on experience in the field.

Online Courses

Platforms like Coursera and edX provide courses taught by industry professionals, covering various aspects of 3D animation. These courses offer flexibility and the opportunity to learn from experts.

Join Professional Organisations

Connect with animation societies such as the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) to build professional connections and access exclusive resources. Membership in these organisations can provide access to journals, conferences, and professional development opportunities.

Attend Industry Conferences

Participate in events like the AFTRS’s conferences to network with industry professionals and stay informed on the latest trends. These conferences offer a platform to present your work, learn from experts, and collaborate on projects.

Micro Learning

Enrol in online courses and certification programs that focus on specific skills. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer a range of animation courses taught by industry experts. These courses allow you to learn at your own pace and build your skills step-by-step.

Whether you’re animating characters for a blockbuster movie, designing special effects for a TV show, or creating virtual worlds for a video game, each location offers unique opportunities to enhance your professional journey. Working in these varied settings allows you to apply your skills in different contexts, contributing to the advancement of animation on a global scale.

Western Australia

In Western Australia, the film and gaming industries are growing rapidly, offering numerous opportunities for 3D animators. Perth is home to several animation and game development studios, where you can work on current projects. Additionally, local universities and TAFEs offer courses and workshops to help you hone your skills and connect with industry professionals.

Australia

Across Australia, cities like Sydney and Melbourne are bustling with animation studios, advertising agencies, and game developers. These cities host major film and animation festivals, providing platforms to showcase your work and network with industry leaders. Australia’s vibrant creative scene means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to work on diverse projects, from feature films to virtual reality experiences.