Animation
Qualifications
Although this area of work is open to all graduates, the following degree or foundation degree subjects are particularly relevant:
animation
art and design
computer-aided engineering
design for moving image
electrical engineering
film and video
graphic design/illustration
model making or sculpture
multimedia
spatial design
3D design.
Entry without a higher education qualification is unusual, but not impossible. Exceptions may be made for very talented candidates. Many animators consider having an artistic background just as important as having skills in IT.
Employers
The UK also leads the world in the production of pre-school storytelling and design, and this area continues to attract investors, ensuring the availability of work.
Other areas of work include:
feature films
children's programmes
games
music promos
titles and idents
CD-ROMs
adult comedy and drama.
Many animators work as independent film-makers, producing their own short films and trying to win commissions from animation commissioners at broadcasting companies such as Channel 4, the BBC (in particular BBC2), or from the internet or other related media.
Getting a short film broadcast could lead to a commission for a short series, a longer film or interest from music company advertising agencies (for music videos) or commercial and business ventures.
Look for job vacancies at:
Animation Companies in the United Kingdom
Aardman Animations, Ltd. (also known as Aardman Studios or simply Aardman) is a British animation studio based in Bristol, England. Aardman is known for films made using stop-motion clay animation techniques, particularly those featuring Plasticine characters Wallace and Gromit.
Bearded Fellows
Bearded Fellows is an animation and video agency for brands, agencies and organizations. We bring together the expertise and unique perspectives needed to realize great ideas and produce stunning and exciting campaigns.
Manchester
Framestore is the largest visual effects and computer animation studio in Europe, with over 20 years of experience in digital film and video technology. The company has won numerous international awards including two Technical Academy Awards from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, three BAFTA Craft Awards and eleven Primetime Emmy Awards.
Holborn, London
iCarley Media
18 years of experience providing all the major broadcasters with innovative motion graphics - specialising in Kids, Sport & Factual programming.
Farnham
Industrial Light & Magic is an American motion picture visual effects company that was founded in May 1975 by George Lucas.
https://jellyfishpictures.co.uk/
Compelling visual effects and animation that bring your ideas to life.
King Bee Animation
King Bee animation's services start from concept & stylistic art direction to the full TV animation production with final audio mix. Our clients include Allergan, Zurich Financial Services, Hewlett Packard, Disney, British Telecom, Specsavers & more.
Kuro Dragon
Kuro Dragon is an award winning full production animation studio. We use 2D/3D animation and motion graphics to help clients tell their stories and brand messages across TV, digital and online platforms. We thrive on working with you to bring your story to life and tell it in a unique, creative and engaging way.
Gateshead
Loose Moose
Loose Moose is an innovative independent production company and animation studio based in the heart of Soho.
Soho, London
Passion Pictures
Passion is a multiple Oscar winning independent production company with bases in London, Paris, New York. We create every form of animation and live action imaginable across an unlimited range of media and represent over 40 directors.
Fitzrovia, London
Pixelburn
Motion graphics studio specializing in animation and special effects for broadcast television, film and other mediums.
Letchworth Garden City
Planet Jump Productions
Innovative BAFTA nominated London-based animation production company specialising in title sequences, commercials and promo work for TV, film and corporate clients. Clients include BBC and Sony Pictures.
Barnet
Seed
Seed is an animation production company for all advertising formats and media. The studio specializes in high-end CG character animation and 2d motion graphics. We work with agencies bringing to life a written script and also direct with brands from concept to delivery, including development and script.
West End, London
Studio Liddell
Studio Liddell creates of all types of computer generated visual content including 2D & 3D animation, digital illustration and interactive applications. The studio has a creatively lead, talented and diverse team, producing a wide range of work for broadcast, print and digital.
Manchester
Interview help
Higher Education
You'll be expected to talk about the work in your portfolio, so prepare to discuss the content. You should also think about your responses to questions such as:
- Why have you chosen to study Animation?
- What sort of animation do you admire?
- What motivates you and what career do you aspire to?
- What knowledge of the industry do you have?
Discussing your portfolio:
Explain your projects and inspirations
Think about common questions that may be asked for example: who is your favourite artist and why?
Go back over your sketch books and ensure you have all the parts to a project ready to showcase and therefore discuss the processes behind them.
Talk about what worked and what didn't / Show how you've developed
It's important to show your work and explain the tecniques you have used and why you maybe changed them or they worked etc.
What inspired this? What do you think works? What do you like particularly? What do you feel is the best piece and why?
Explain any weaknesses and how you have overcame them - showing improvements and self reflection.
Have some questions ready for them
It is always helpful to ask the tutor/ interviewer about the course and think of any interesting questions to ask regarding the course. This shows enthuasiam and that you have also researched the university.
Portfolio top tips
Assume nothing. Research what’s required for each separate degree course. Even courses at the same university will have different ideas of what they want from students.
Don’t fall at the first hurdle. Follow the instructions and guidelines for any work you need to submit beforehand, and do it on time.
Don’t know where to start? Most university websites include galleries or testimonials of student work to give you a flavour of what the course might offer you.
Specific University Guidance:
https://www.falmouth.ac.uk/apply/application-toolkit/interview-tips
Work- based employment
https://resources.workable.com/animator-interview-questions
CAREER Videos
3D Animation Interview Questions and Answers 2019 Part-1 | 3D Animation | Wisdom Jobs
University of Bolton - Animation & Illustration - Tutor Interview
Disney Dream Job: Walt Disney Animation Studios Artist | Disney Family
How Disney's Animation Evolved From 'Frozen' To 'Frozen II' | Movies Insider