Expert: Joseph Silver - 12/10/2008

Question
Hello.

I'm a newbie on animation.

I like to draw, I draw a lot. However, I have no experience whatsoever in animation.

Can anyone tell me what's the true and tested way to learn animation by oneself?

And

Can anyone tell me which software (Windows / Linux) to use to learn animation?

In both 2D and 3D.

Thank you all !!

Answer
hi peh lee - there are a wide variety of software used in animation. to start, you will want to have a good handle on adobe photoshop and illustrator. when it comes to 2D animation, after effects is a common favorite, although there is also flash (if you plan on animating for the web) and motion. 3D packages include cinema 4D, maya, and softimage.

sounds like you already like to draw a lot. that's a great start. you might want to practice creating some drawn animated sequences, put together a short film or other project for yourself. also, you may want to explore other forms of traditional animation, like claymation.

please let me know if you have any other questions. thanks!

www.designomotion.com