Can Pro Animators Be Self-Taught or Does Joining a Class Make the Difference?

With the vast array of tutorials, blogs, and YouTube videos available online, the idea of becoming a pro animator without formal education is tempting. However, the

path to becoming a professional animator is complex, and the question often arises: can we become pro animators by watching and learning from YouTube videos, or does joining an animation class make the difference?

The Challenges of Self-Taught Learning

The only problem with being self-taught is the lack of a guiding hand, a mentor, or an experienced individual who can provide constructive feedback. In essence, you are your own guide and judge, leading to a scenario where you must rely on self-assessment and the accuracy of the information found online.

YouTube videos and tutorials can provide a wealth of information, but they often lack the personalized, structured guidance that comes with a formal course. As you learn from these resources, you must make your own judgments about the quality of the output and whether it truly aligns with your goals and expectations.

Advantages of Joining an Animation Class

Animation classes, on the other hand, offer a unique set of benefits that online resources cannot match. With a teacher, you have the opportunity to receive immediate and personalized feedback, which is invaluable in the fast-paced world of animation. This feedback can help you refine your skills and correct any misconceptions you might have.

Consider the following scenario: you are in a classroom facing an easel, with cheap newsprint paper on a large pad. In front of you is a small stage with a nude model who will pose for 15 minutes, and you will be tasked with drawing the pose accurately. After each 15-minute session, you will tear the sketch and toss it on the floor, realizing that it has no artistic value. This process is repeated for three hours non-stop, with thirty other students doing the same.

This hands-on experience is invaluable. You learn to prioritize speed and accuracy over perfection, as you are constantly under pressure to capture what you see as quickly as possible. This fast-paced, demanding environment allows you to witness how your peers handle the same poses, making it easier to identify areas for improvement.

Combining Online Resources with Structured Learning

While it is certainly possible to learn to become a pro animator through self-teaching, it is essential to strike a balance between online resources and structured learning. Here are some tips for combining the best of both worlds:

Seek Quality Tutorials: Use popular, well-reviewed online resources to build a solid foundation of skills. Find a Mentor: Before relying solely on YouTube, try to find a mentor who can guide you and offer critical feedback. Join Online Communities: Participate in online forums and communities where experienced animators can critique your work. Consider Part-Time Classes: If full-time classes are not feasible, look for part-time or weekend courses to supplement your learning. Practical Experience: Seek internships or volunteer opportunities in animation studios to gain hands-on experience.

The Role of Feedback in Skill Development

After you have developed your initial animations, it is crucial to get feedback from experienced animators and professionals. This feedback is often hard to come by in traditional institutions, but you can find experienced animators in your locality or reach out to them online. Enrollement in a studio for free is also a great way to gain valuable experience and receive feedback.

Remember, the path to becoming a pro animator is complex and multifaceted. It involves self-guided learning, mentorship, practical experience, and continuous feedback. Embrace both the online resources and structured learning to build a robust foundation and ultimately achieve your goals.