© Film Roman.

Jay Francis, Director of Talent Recruiting, Film Roman
Having just recently visited a number of prestigious schools throughout the United States and Canada, I am most impressed by the computer animation talent that is becoming available to the cartoon industry. While most studios are looking for artists, not just computer technicians (Film Roman included), I have found a wealth of talent that is proficient at both traditional and computer design.

There is, however, a tendency at some schools to over-emphasize the computer while not paying close enough attention to the fundamentals of drawing and design. Yes, the computer is here and yes, it is not going away, but the computer still needs a true artist to exploit fully the technology.

Any student looking to break into the industry should expect a long, hard battle. The competition is as fierce as it has ever been. The first thing that I tell a student is to go where the jobs are. A student spends a lot in time and money to hone their skills. It makes no sense not to go to the industry centers (Los Angeles specifically, New York to a lesser extent), where as an entry level designer the real training/learning begins. Make sure your portfolio is versatile, understand what jobs are being offered and most importantly be persistent!

Prince of Egypt © DreamWorks.

Jana Day, DreamWorks Animation Recruiting
Generally speaking, the skills we see from the animation schools around the world are very good. Each year our college recruiting trips identify several students that we begin to develop relationships with over the next few years.

The top animation schools study all areas of animation, so there really isn't one area that is lacking. I think the most difficult area for students is experience in the `real world.' I would recommend that all students try to get internships or complete as many student films as possible. Plus, great life drawing and draftsmanship skills are always essential.

Most graduates start out as in-betweeners or in clean-up animation. It may not sound very glamorous, but it is great training experience. We find that if animators can gain the technical experience first, then their creative style will naturally follow the animation process. Basically, you must learn to manipulate the technical aspects before you can get creative.