Reflective Journal
For the tutorial unit:
Originally I intended to create a tutorial on UV-mapping as this is an area of importance to me. I was running out of time finding good tutorials and applying these methods to create my own. I then decided to create a Bi-pedal character run and document this. This was a descision made based on a few factors, the first being I knew it would be do-able despite the fact I havn't animated a run previously. I let myself down in a way as I do not intend to be soley an animator and modelling is more my area. UV-mapping is something I will have to go back to now in my own time, this doesn't bother me as I made my descision to create a different tutorial in the end as I had a better idea of the final outcome and knew I could acheive a fair result.
For the tutorial unit:
Originally I intended to create a tutorial on UV-mapping as this is an area of importance to me. I was running out of time finding good tutorials and applying these methods to create my own. I then decided to create a Bi-pedal character run and document this. This was a descision made based on a few factors, the first being I knew it would be do-able despite the fact I havn't animated a run previously. I let myself down in a way as I do not intend to be soley an animator and modelling is more my area. UV-mapping is something I will have to go back to now in my own time, this doesn't bother me as I made my descision to create a different tutorial in the end as I had a better idea of the final outcome and knew I could acheive a fair result.
Self analysis of skills and knowledge:
- General design
- Computer skills and software knowledge
- 3D modelling
- Texturing
- Rigging
- Animating - 2D/3D
- Lighting/Rendering
- Storyboarding
I have knowledge in these areas however some are stronger than others and must be improved so I have better overall understanding instead of one focus. In industry it is good to know the pipeline even if working in one department.
At this moment in time I am not entirely sure what area I want to focus on. I have done modelling, texturing, animating and storyboarding for college projects.
I enjoy modelling and have understanding of basic UV-mapping. This is an area I have to expand on as texturing is essential if becoming a modeller. I enjoy modelling environments and props; I have some experience in character modelling also. Rigging is an area I need to develop however, I have basic knowledge but my character is yet move, this is mainly due to painting weights.
My animating skills are fairly basic. I have a good observation and understanding of the principles and have achieved both 3D and 2D animations. I do not intend to become a character animator yet enjoy it at the same time. I enjoy 2D graphical animation using programs such as Flash or ToonBoom.
Industry
The following companies are those that are associated with Ravensbourne graduates:
- Mediamolecule
- The Mill
- Glassworks
- Framestore
- Doublenegative
I have looked at various roles and generally speaking those seeking a job need some sort of portfolio/show-reel of their work and have extensive knowledge in the area they are choosing to work in.
Other animation students have entered these companies at runner level and made their way from there.
I have signed up to a website AnimationBase which sends me job positions in the industry. I have found it useful even just as a guide.
Company
Town/City
London
Sector
Salary
Tbc
Contract Duration
Tbc
Pasted from <http://www.animationbase.com/jobs/3d-cg-animation/london-south-east/csg-junior-animator-in-london_309/>
CSG Junior Animator – Animatic – Showreel – Maya – Staging - Motion Location: London Start: ASAP Duration: 6 Months
To accomplish our mission the London Soho Studio is seeking a Junior Animator to work on our primary project.
As a Junior Animator your primary responsibility will be to create detailed and Animatics to drive live filming and help complex game mechanic prototyping.
This position has three main responsibilities:
1. Ability to quickly create accurate and visually dynamic Animatic sequences 2. Collaborate with the Art Director and Game Designer to help script appropriate content for our filming 3. Efficient, reliable, self-motivated & passionate about animation
CSG Junior Animator - Skills Required:
1. Recognised animation qualification or industry experience 2. Ability to create well timed & clearly posed animation 3. A Showreel is required 4. Good Knowledge of 1 Major 3D package (Ideally Maya) 5. Demonstrable understanding of the fundamental aspects of animation (staging, timing and motion, anticipation, exaggeration, follow through, arcs & appeal)
The deadline for this role is 3m on Wednesday 23rd February. Please do not submit any CVs after this time as they will not be considered. Thank you.
If the CSG Junior Animator role is of interest and you match the requirements above please apply with a copy of your CV and I will contact you shortly.
· Date Posted 22/02/2011
· Date Expires: 24/03/2011
‘Efficient, reliable, self-motivated & passionate about animation’ – This isn’t the job I would go for as I do not want to be soley an animator, however the previous three requirements are industry standard. I believe I am efficient, reliable and self-motivated but usually work better when It is on a task that I am enjoying/can see the benefits/want to achieve that end result.
I know in industry you can be landed with a task that isn’t to your immediate liking, it is then when I have to find an aspect of the task that I can enjoy and take pride in therefore getting the job done.
In order to bridge the gap from what I know to what I need to know I have to continue this self-analysis as it is essential for personal and professional development.
From the skillset website for animation jobs:
Key Skills include:
- good understanding of the principles of animation;
- good movement and timing skills;
- good observational and acting skills for character animation;
- ability to think in 3D;
- ability to concentrate and focus on the work for extended periods;
- good communication and team skills including an understanding of the work of other departments;
- ability to take direction and address comments willingly;
- ability to be flexible and adaptable;
- ability to deliver on schedule, working under pressure if required;
- respect for the procedures and requirements of a particular production or pipeline;
- knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures
These requirements (minus the top three) are pretty much standard across industry for any job from entry level to full time job.
I have the ability to concentrate and focus on work but can get distracted fairly easily if progress starts to slow or I am not enjoying the task. I also have the tendancy to get caught up on small details and the bigger picture can be lost as a result, there is some form of idealism/perfectionism in the way I do things and visualise.
I have no problem with taking directions and quite like having some form of structure/responsibility.
I am flexible and adaptable and can deliver work on time, however I do have to manage my time better as more work seems to get done when deadline is nearing as opposed to an even spread across the given time period.
