Animation is the science of creating visual effects for movies, television, video games and other types of media. These visual effects could be both in two- and three- dimensional animation and models. Those professionals who use computer programs to create such visual effects are called animators or multimedia artists. Animators, depending upon the nature of their job, may hold a bachelor's degree in computer graphics, art, animation or a related field. Nowadays, both traditional and online universities offer courses and degree programs in animation.
Types Of Animation
Animation has advanced over the years. From cartoons of yesteryears to 3D characters seem within your grasp, animation is a specialized field today. Those interested in animation can specialize in its various tracks like:
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Flipbook animation - It is the traditional way of creating images with the use of pencil, eraser and a piece of paper
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Stop motion - This type of animation makes use of physical objects and figurine to create animation
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2D animation - This type is similar to flipbook animation except that the visuals are created by drawing in a software
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3D animation - 3D animation has the potential to create aesthetically stunning and realistic visuals. The visuals are created by the use of three dimensional virtual space
Online Animation Courses
Some of the online animation courses are:
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Stop Motion Animation
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Storyboard
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Animation Modeling
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Compositing
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Photoshop Compositing
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Digital Compositing
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Character Design
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Maya Character Animation
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Character Animation
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Cartooning
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Background Painting
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Visual Effects
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Classical Animation
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Computer Animation
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3D Animation
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2D Animation
Online Degree Programs
Like other degree programs, degrees are offered at all levels in animation. Depending upon the animator's requirements, he/she may enroll in an online animation program at:
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Certificate level
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Associate's degree level
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Bachelor's degree level
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Master's degree level
Traditional Vs Online Animation Courses
Online courses in animation are ideal for those:
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Who prefer to study independently and do not want to study with those less than half of their age
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Who cannot commute to campus on regular basis
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Who do not want to leave their daytime job for school
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Who are looking for relatively cheaper courses as online courses may be comparatively cheaper than traditional courses
Careers And Job Outlook
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts an 8 percent growth in the sector from 2010 to 2020. The same source also reports animators earning a yearly median salary of $58,510 in May 2010.
Conclusion
The single biggest benefit of taking courses in animation online and pursuing a career as an animator is the liberty of work. Majority of animators are self-employed. They work in offices, however they can work from home as well. It may be one of the ways of breaking into Hollywood as many animators work for motion picture studios. Others work for video game studios. Working long hours, including weekends, however, is not unheard of in the field of animation.