Animator

Animator

An animator is an artist who creates multiple images called frames and key frames that form an illusion of movement called animation when rapidly displayed. Animators can work in a variety of fields including film, television, video games, and the internet.

Low-end Salary: 
$31,570/yr
Median Salary: 
$56,330/yr
High-end Salary: 
$100,390/yr
Education: 

Although formal training, such as a Bachelor or Master degree in Fine Arts isn't always required, it can help one who wants to work as an animator develop sought after skills. These programs often include course work in mathematics, art history, studio art, and computer techniques.

Math Required: 

College Algebra
Trigonometry
Geometry
Calculus I and II
Linear Algebra

When Math Is Used: 

An animator has to have knowledge of many applied math subjects. It allows the animator to find unknowns from a simple set of equations and to work out aspects of geometric figures when you are dealing with objects that move and change. An animator uses linear algebra to show the way that an object is rotated and shifted and made larger and smaller—all major actions in animation.

Potential Employers: 

There are only so many jobs at Disney and Pixar, and not every 3D animator wants to work on motion picture cartoons. Animators also find success in computer and console game development, television programming, broadband internet animation, broadcast and web advertising, education, research, and military and corporate training.

Facts: 

Generally, an animator will average about a hundred frames a week (that's 4 seconds of actual screen time).

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Quote Of The Day

"It should be evident that each step in my career has rested on a firm foundation in mathematics. For me, the study of mathematics was the key that opened the doors to the universe."

— Robert L. Stewart

NASA Astronaut

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Figures represent salary potential.

28
Jul

Here's an interesting story of a girl in Michigan with Grapheme-Color Synesthesia. In other words, she visualizes each digit, zero through nine, as a different color.

For her, and others with the same condition, it adds a new splash to math work.

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