Are you passionate about animation and looking to enhance your skills and knowledge in the field? Whether you’re a seasoned animator or just starting out, staying up-to-date with the latest trends, techniques, and resources is crucial for your professional growth. In this article, we will explore a curated list of must-read books and websites that every animator should have in their arsenal to excel in the industry.
Books for Animators
To truly master the art of animation, it’s essential to delve into books that cover both foundational concepts and advanced techniques. Here are some of the best books that every animator should consider reading:
- “The Animator’s Survival Kit” by Richard Williams
Considered a bible for animators, this book covers the fundamentals of animation, including timing, spacing, and more. It’s a timeless resource that every animator should have on their bookshelf. - “Character Animation Crash Course!” by Eric Goldberg
This book provides practical tips and techniques for animating characters with personality and emotion. It’s a great resource for animators looking to improve their character animation skills. - “The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation” by Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston
Dive into the history of Disney animation with this classic book that explores the principles of animation developed by Disney’s legendary animators. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the art of animation. - “Animating with Blender: Creating Short Animations from Start to Finish” by Roland Hess
If you’re interested in 3D animation, this book is a comprehensive guide to animating with Blender, a popular open-source software. It covers everything from character rigging to rendering and compositing. - “Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney Master Classes” by Walt Stanchfield
This book compiles the teachings of Walt Stanchfield, a Disney animator, into a series of insightful lessons on animation principles and storytelling. It’s a valuable resource for animators of all levels.
Websites for Animators
In addition to books, numerous websites offer valuable insights, tutorials, and industry updates for animators. Below are some of the top websites that every animator should bookmark:
- Animation Mentor: Offering online animation courses taught by industry professionals, Animation Mentor is a great resource for animators looking to enhance their skills and build a strong portfolio.
- Cartoon Brew: Stay updated on the latest news, trends, and job opportunities in the animation industry with Cartoon Brew, a popular animation news website that covers a wide range of topics related to animation.
- Animation World Network (AWN): AWN is a comprehensive resource for animation professionals, featuring articles, interviews, reviews, and industry insights. It’s a one-stop destination for staying informed about the animation world.
- Creative Blog: While not exclusively focused on animation, Creative Blog covers a variety of design-related topics, including animation tutorials, tips, and inspiration. It’s a valuable resource for animators looking to expand their knowledge.
- Toon Boom Blog: Toon Boom is a leading software company in the animation industry, and their blog offers valuable insights, tutorials, and industry news for animators using their software products.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to refine your animation skills, stay updated on industry trends, or explore new techniques, these books and websites offer a wealth of knowledge and resources. Both aspiring and experienced animators can benefit from the insights provided by these essential reads and online platforms. Remember, continuous learning is key to thriving in the ever-evolving world of animation. So, keep exploring, keep practicing, and let your creativity soar!
Key Takeaways:
- Building a strong foundation in animation principles is essential for animators of all levels.
- Stay updated on industry trends and techniques by exploring a variety of resources, including books and websites.
- Continuous learning and practice are key to honing your animation skills and staying competitive in the industry.
To further enhance your animation knowledge and skills, consider enrolling in Yellowbrick’s NYU Animation Industry Essentials online course and certificate program. This comprehensive program will provide you with valuable insights and practical training to excel in the ever-evolving field of animation. Start your journey towards a successful animation career today!
