Expert: Russell Calabrese - 1/7/2010

Question
Hi,
I have a background in live-action film production. But I'd like to get into traditional animation. Right now I'm working on an animated short with a team of animators. I'm supervising/directing, but I feel limited by just approving designs and animation work. I'm really enjoying the experience, and want to get into it in a more hands on way. Ideally, I'd like to take courses and get a graduate degree. Any advice?
Nayeem

Answer
Hi Nayeem,

You can take classes but don't need to have a degree to do your job.
Check out your local schools and see what kind of traditional animation classes they give.
You can also buy some books and learn on your own or have the animators you work with be your mentors and show you how to do it and see if you'd be any good at it, or if you like doing it. Before you take classes see if you have the patience to get into that aspect of animation. It takes a long time you get proficient at all kinds of animation. The Preston Blair,  Richard Williams and Eric Goldberg books are an excellent place to start learning about traditional animation on your own.

Hope this helps.

ой
Russell