2D Animator

2D Animator: An Overview

Similar titles: 2D animator, cartoon animator, CGI animator, graphic animator.

Education level: Bachelor’s to Master’s degree.

Employability: good.

Starting salary: 2,500 euros gross.

Experienced salary: 4,000 euros gross.

What is a 2D Animator?

The 2D animator is a professional in video animation. They create smooth movements to give an impression of reality to characters, objects, and backgrounds by animating them in two dimensions. They work on animating movements and facial expressions, as well as on transition elements like fade-ins of static images.

This profession combines artistic and technical skills. The 2D animation professional begins their creative process using traditional drawing tools like paper and pencil. They then move to their screen or graphic tablet to create the illusion of movement on a flat surface using specialized animation software.

What Training is Required to Become a 2D Animator?

A high school diploma is often required to enter this profession. A certified higher education program, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, equips students with all the necessary skills for two-dimensional video animation.

Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor in 2D Animation

Master’s Degree: Master’s in 2D Animation

What Are the Duties of a 2D Animator?

To carry out their duties and achieve the best results in their work, the 2D animator uses a sketchbook, a computer, a graphic tablet, and 2D animation software. For their projects, they collaborate with various professionals in the multimedia, animated film, communication, and video game sectors.

Collaboration with a Production Team

The 2D animator works closely with a production team to complete their animation project. They collaborate with the artistic director, designer, graphic artist, and other industry professionals. After analyzing the tasks to be done, the 2D animator contributes their creative and technical input.

Creating Smooth Animations

With their mastery of animation techniques, the 2D animator brings drawings to life. Using specialized software and their drawing skills, they create smooth movements to capture the audience's attention.

To do this, they move each articulation point of a character in motion on a computer. This process involves using mathematical coordinates to determine the start and end positions based on the trajectory and type of movement. This work requires time and great precision.

Creating Characters and Graphic Worlds

Another important duty of the 2D animator is to create characters and graphic worlds. Based on concepts and guidelines, the 2D animator brings characters to life by developing their appearance, movements, and expressions. They also create backgrounds and environments that match the story and visual aesthetics of the project.

What Are the Qualities of a 2D Animator?

The 2D animator possesses strong technical and artistic knowledge. They have a good understanding of the animation industry by following sector trends. They regularly adapt to new technologies and market demands. Adaptability is thus an essential quality for this animated image specialist. Patience, meticulousness, and stress resistance are also important.

Mastery of Animation Techniques

To excel as a 2D animator, mastery of animation techniques is indispensable. A certified training program in a specialized school offers in-depth courses on animation, drawing, and the use of specialized software. This animated image professional masters the fundamentals of animation such as timing, anticipation, key posing, and interpolation to create convincing animated sequences.

Artistic Sensitivity and Creativity

The 2D animator possesses strong artistic sensitivity and creativity. This artist must be able to bring ideas to life through their drawing, design, and composition skills. These qualities and their experience allow this animated image professional to work on various high-quality projects.

Team Spirit and Collaboration

Teamwork is essential in the animation industry. The 2D animator must be able to collaborate with other artists, project managers, and production professionals to create high-quality animation projects. The ability to communicate effectively, accept and give constructive criticism, and adapt to demands and deadlines is crucial. They must be a reliable team member, ready to contribute to the overall success of the project.

What is the Salary of a 2D Animator?

There are many job opportunities in this sector, allowing experienced candidates to find rewarding career opportunities in renowned companies. The salary of a 2D animator varies based on experience and expertise level. It is around 2,500 euros gross for an entry-level professional and can go up to 4,000 euros gross for an experienced profile.

Where Can a 2D Animator Work?

The 2D animator can work on various projects ranging from animated films to video games, advertising, and personal videos. Professional advancement prospects are promising for those who stand out in this creative and constantly evolving field.

An animated image professional can work as an employee or freelancer for various clients. In this case, they are responsible for carrying out different tasks in constant collaboration with artistic teams (graphic designer, modeler, illustrator, etc.).

Training to Become a 2D Animator at LISAA

After obtaining your high school diploma or completing a MANAA (preparatory year in applied arts), you can join the Institut Supérieur des Arts Appliqués (LISAA). Our schools in Paris, Nantes, Rennes, Strasbourg, Toulouse, Bordeaux, or Montpellier welcome candidates each year who wish to train for artistic careers. LISAA is a 2D animation school recognized by the Ministry of Culture.

The Bachelor in 2D Animation, offered over 3 years, trains you in the tools and software used by animation studios, thanks to state-of-the-art equipment. The first year, common to all animation bachelors, strengthens fundamental skills and introduces 2D animation. During this certified training program, you will learn to develop a production schedule, create visual design elements, produce a storyboard, and prepare the animation of all scene elements in 2D.

To better enter the job market, complete your training with the Master’s in 2D Animation. This program allows you to deepen your skills and specialize in 2D animation techniques.