Illustrator

Summary

Illustrators create drawings and designs for books and magazines, advertisements, film, television and multimedia.

Illustrators work on paper, and two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) models. They may use a combination of traditional and computer-based techniques, or work on screen only.

Duties & Tasks

Illustrators may perform the following tasks:

  • study the project brief (instructions) and select an appropriate style, technique and medium to use
  • research a topic by looking at photographs, artworks, advertisements and books, and by observing people, animals and plants
  • prepare sketches, layouts and storyboards to try out different ideas
  • create illustrations using charcoal, pen, ink, paint, photography and computer graphics software
  • create and model creatures, characters, environments and interiors for 2D and 3D computer animations
  • discuss the project with clients and the production team, making changes as requested.

Specialisations

Animator

An animator creates models or draws characters and objects in a sequence of different positions to give the illusion of movement. They synchronise lip movements with words, and actions with music and sound effects. Animators can use a range of traditional and digital techniques, including cell animation, claymation, motion graphics, rendering and morphing.

Personal Requirements

  • high level of drawing skill
  • artistic and design flair
  • able to work to the client brief
  • a feeling for movement and timing
  • aptitude for working with computers.

Related Courses:

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