Among the skills required for a career in animation and gaming, perhaps the most important attribute is creativity. You should have a passion for sketching and drawing, and while this is technically not necessary, it is invaluably helpful in virtually all aspects of the industry. Understanding visual communication and being able to tell a story through it is vital. Patience and a meticulous eye for detail are also required. The use of 3-D animation has increased significantly in recent years. So, being able to use computer tools to generate visuals, while utilizing knowledge of mathematics and physics, is important as well.

Skills of an Animator

•     Creativity and imagination
•     Patience and attention to detail
•     Drawing skills
•     Computer literacy and familiarity with graphics software
•     Communication and presentation skills
•     Ability to meet deadlines and work as part of a team

Useful advice from Kireet Khurana, award winning animator and film maker (Toonpur ka Superhero, Chotta Birbal) for aspirating animators, "Nurture creativity and imagination. There is no replacement for a solid foundation and education. Grasp the basics, observe from life, learn the fundamentals of classical animation as they will hold you in good stead, irrespective of the fact whether you choose to do 2D, 3D, clay or any new form of animation. Learn anatomy – it will help in designing great characters. Above all be a psychologist – it will make you an adept storyteller and a master in creating indelible, identifiable characters."

If you think you have the skills required to study animation and gaming, then you could opt to study animation courses in India. There are various well-known animation colleges across the country; most of them are located in metropolitan cities like Bangalore, Mumbai or Delhi. Usually the minimum eligibility criteria for students is passing the 10+2. Entrance exams are institute-specific. Courses are often available in both full-time and part-time. There are certificates, diplomas, bachelor's and master's degrees, which vary in cost and duration according to different institutes.

The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Animation course taught in most institutions imparts education that lets students work in most or all of the formats that are used by animators. In the first year, students usually focus on animation fundamentals, new media theories, colour use and significance, drawing and composition, digital imaging and fundamental 2-D animation. In the second year, 2-D and computer animation, fundamentals of 3-D animation and 3-D space and visual effects are generally taught. In the third year, courses could include media management and aesthetics, visual effects, game art and design, modelling, animation, rendering and lighting. These subjects are mostly available as options and a students' career depends upon what he/she chooses to specialize in. As you may understand from this typical course curriculum of an animation course, it is important to have a flair for drawing and inherent creativity to be able to successfully pursue an education and a career in this field.

Some institutes offer postgraduate courses that focus on particular aspects like digital publishing, web authoring, film animation or interactive art.

Pros and Cons for an Animator

Like any industry, animation and gaming has pros and cons that need to be considered before choosing to begin a career.

Pros

•     Animators usually earn decent pay
•     They can constantly hone their craft by engaging with different projects
•     They have the opportunity to become renowned for work
•     They can get in touch, work with and learn from industry leaders
•     They may have work flexibility

Cons

•     Rigorous deadlines
•     Working according to rules and demands
•     Consistent meticulous attention to detail and patience
•     Being up-to-date with the dynamic and fast changing animation technologies

Keep in mind that many animators freelance rather than having a full-time job, although such jobs are typically available at studios.