How do I become an animator?

The most important skill of an animator is the ability to draw, model or use puppets in a way that creates the illusion of movement. Whatever your route into the industry, you need to learn how to do this. It’s useful to have a degree in animation too. This will give you the opportunity to learn the software and animation techniques. However you do it, practice and job hone your animation skills and create your own portfolio to show off your work.

At school or college: You can take A-levels or job Highers in fine art, art and design, graphic design, or film studies. Or you might want to take any of the following Level 3 vocational qualifications:

- BTEC National Diploma/Extended Diploma in Art and Design

• UAL Applied General Diploma/Extended Diploma in Art and Design
• NCFE Applied General Certificate in Art and Design
  
  If you want to go straight into a job or apprenticeship, the following Level 3 vocational qualifications will equip you:
  
  - BTEC National Diploma in Graphics
• UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma in Art and Design
• OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma in Art and Design (Graphic Design)
  
  Get an apprenticeship:
  
  An apprenticeship is a job with training, so it’s a great opportunity to earn as you learn. See if you can find an apprenticeship a junior job animator. Check out What’s an apprenticeship? to learn more about apprenticeships and job find an apprenticeship to learn how to find one in your region, or approach companies directly.
  
  Build a portfolio: Learn animation and video editing software, experiment with practical stop-motion and start creating work that you can show to admissions tutors or employers. Create your own short film or films. This is essential. Go to build your animation portfolio to learn how. Watch Screenskills’ advice on animation showreels and CG Spectrum - College of Digital Art and Animation’s student showcase YouTube video for help and inspiration.
  
  Get a degree: A degree in animation or a related useful field, [job](http://users.atw.hu/samp-info-forum/index.php?PHPSESSID=98c3f5983459954948979a31a76d5b91&action=profile