Animation Classes Boston, MA

Animation is a process where a series of still images are manipulated to create the illusion of movement. There are many different types of animation including 2D animation, 3D animation, stop motion animation, claymation, and motion graphics. Early animation was drawn by hand, and it took hours to create even a short piece of content. While some animation is still hand-drawn, many Animators now use computer software, which speeds up the process considerably and also allows them to create new types of content.

Animation apps are extremely common within the world of animation, and depending on the class that you take, you may learn how to use one of these apps. Adobe Animate and Adobe After Effects are two examples. Apps give you a lot of creative possibilities, but it can take some time to master all of their tools.

What Can You Do with Animation Training?

Animated content has become increasingly popular in many types of media including marketing, education, and social media. In a November 2023 LinkedIn post, Red Apple Learning states, “Animation is all around us.” As a result, the ability to create animation has become a sought-after job skill. Companies in many different industries need skilled Animators. Red Apple Learning also notes, “Learning animation can significantly boost your employability.” Further, it predicts, “As technology continues to advance, the importance of animation will only grow.” Because of this high level of demand, animation training can be viewed as a way to gain job security.

What Will I Learn in an Animation Class?

When you take an animation class, you’ll learn about drawing and composition, which are fundamental parts of animation. You’re also likely to learn 2D and 3D animation techniques, since these are two of the most common types of animation. In addition, you may learn storytelling techniques, how to use animation applications, and how to collaborate with a team.

Drawing and Composition

Even though you may end up working with a digital application, if you want to be an Animator, you’ll still need drawing and composition skills. Most animation classes include opportunities to build and refine these skills.

2D and 3D Animation Techniques

There are many different animation techniques, but 2D and 3D animation are two of the most common and are likely to be covered in an animation class. 2D animation is created in a two-dimensional space, while 3D animation is created in a three-dimensional space. 3D animation is typically created using computer applications.

Storytelling Techniques

A lot of animated content involves storytelling, and this is covered in many animation classes. You might learn how to develop characters, write scripts, and structure narratives. Strong storytelling skills can bring your animation to life and help keep your audience engaged.

Working with Animation Apps

Animation apps are extremely common in the animation industry. Depending on the class you take, you may learn how to use one or more of these applications. Adobe Animate and Adobe After Effects are two common examples. These apps provide a wide range of creative possibilities, but mastering all their tools takes time and practice.

Collaboration Skills

While Animators often work independently, they also frequently collaborate as part of a team. For instance, you might work on a production team with writers, directors, or other Animators. Animation classes may include group projects that help build teamwork and communication skills.

How Hard is It to Learn Animation?

On one hand, you’ll probably find that it’s not too difficult to learn many of the basic skills involved in animation. Most experts agree that with time and practice, almost anyone can learn animation. However, animation is also an art form, and mastering it requires more than simply learning a few technical skills. Many Animators say that for this reason, animation can actually be quite challenging to master. In an October 2020 article in Vulture, several Animators share their experiences. “Animation is very hard to do,” says Animation Director Cat Solen. “You’re combining things that you’d never think could be combined… we physically have to break down our preconceived notions of how stuff actually works in the world.”

How Long Does It Take to Learn Animation?

The amount of time it takes to learn animation depends on your learning goals. If you’re only trying to pick up a few basic skills to create simple animations, you may be able to do that in a matter of weeks. However, if your goal is to develop professional-level skills, you’ll need to invest significantly more time. Many professional Animators spend years mastering their craft. Most emphasize that consistent practice is one of the most important parts of the learning process.

Should I Learn Animation in Person or Online?

There are several different ways to learn animation, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The traditional format—learning in person—remains popular. Many students prefer the ability to interact with instructors and classmates face-to-face and find the format more engaging. Some instructors also find it easier to identify when students are struggling and provide immediate support. However, in-person classes require commuting to a physical location and are limited to local offerings.

Because of this, some students opt for live online learning. These classes provide real-time instruction without the need to travel. You can enroll in classes based in another city, state, or even country, and still receive instructor feedback and interact with fellow students. However, you’ll likely need to provide your own equipment and be prepared to troubleshoot any technical issues that arise.

A third option is on-demand learning. These classes are asynchronous, meaning there’s no live instructor. While this option provides the greatest flexibility, allowing you to stop and start lessons on your schedule, you won’t be able to ask questions in real time or receive direct feedback. Each format has its own benefits, and the best choice depends on your learning style and availability.

Can I Learn Animation Free Online?

There are many free online animation resources available. For example, the Adobe website offers numerous short tutorials that can be helpful for learning new skills or troubleshooting specific issues. The Noble Desktop site also features free animation resources that provide an overview of the field and explain the types of jobs animation can lead to.

However, if you’re aiming for a comprehensive education in animation, free online resources are unlikely to be enough. In an Adobe website guide titled “A Beginner’s Guide to Animation: Types, Techniques and Tutorials,” the company explains that if you want to become an Animator, you’ll likely need to take structured classes. It states, “Very few animators are likely to be completely self-taught… Some form of education is essential to learning the techniques and software skills you need to animate.”

With a paid class, you’ll receive structured instruction from a professional, opportunities for feedback, and guidance throughout your learning journey. Many paid courses also come with a certificate of completion, which can be helpful when applying for jobs or internships.

What Should I Learn Alongside Animation?

If you want to work as an Animator, in addition to developing animation skills, you’ll also need a strong portfolio. This collection of work demonstrates your skills to potential employers and clients. The Adobe website’s article “A Beginner’s Guide to Animation” offers several tips for learning animation and emphasizes the importance of building a portfolio. It explains, “A killer portfolio is essential to proving your skills as an Animator. This is a chance to demonstrate how you’re unique—and how you can bring stories, characters, and objects to life better than the competition.”

Industries That Use Animation

Animation is used in many different industries. One of the most common is film and television, where a significant percentage of content is animated. Animation also plays a key role in the video game industry, as nearly all video content within games is animated. Another industry where animation is frequently utilized is marketing. Animated marketing content is often more affordable to produce than live-action footage and has been shown to be highly engaging and memorable for audiences.

In recent years, animation has also become increasingly popular in education. By using animated content, educators can more easily explain complex topics in a way that keeps students engaged and improves information retention. Animation can simplify abstract concepts, making them more accessible to learners of all ages and backgrounds.

Boston offers opportunities in all of these animation-related industries. According to a 2023 report by the Boston Planning & Development Agency, the city is experiencing strong economic growth, with more than 18,000 jobs added in 2022. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the Boston metropolitan area is one of the top ten employers of Special Effects Artists and Animators in the United States.

Animation Job Titles and Salaries

People with animation expertise hold a variety of job titles. An Animator creates animated content for various forms of media. Some Animators specialize in specific types of animation, such as becoming a 2D Animator or a 3D Animator. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for Special Effects Artists and Animators are expected to grow by 8 percent between 2022 and 2032—much faster than the average U.S. job growth rate of 3 percent. The BLS notes, “Projected employment growth will be due to increased demand for animation and visual effects in video games, movies, and television. Consumer demand will continue for more realistic video games, movie and television special effects, and three-dimensional movies.”

An Animator typically earns $49,000 to $69,000 annually. A 2D Animator earns between $56,000 and $73,000, while a 3D Animator can make up to $87,000 per year.

Other roles that incorporate animation include motion graphics design, video game design, and digital marketing. A Motion Graphics Designer blends animation with graphic design to animate static elements. These professionals are employed across a variety of industries including advertising, film, and television, and typically earn around $71,000 per year.

A Video Game Designer may also work extensively with animation. Animators in this field often specialize in particular content areas, such as character design, environment creation, or cinematic sequences. Additionally, Digital Marketers may use animation skills to create engaging content. Those working in digital marketing roles can expect to earn around $61,000 to $64,000 annually.

Animation Classes Near Me

The Boston area offers several options for learning animation. The Boston Institute of Analytics provides hands-on animation classes. One course, Game Design and Development, covers a broad range of topics including storytelling, programming fundamentals, 3D modeling and animation, sound design, mobile and VR development, and testing. Another option is the 3D Animation and VFX course, which explores a variety of digital tools and techniques.

You can also take a live online animation class. For example, Noble Desktop offers virtual animation courses. Based in New York City, Noble hosts in-person classes at its Manhattan facility and also offers live online instruction. The Motion Graphics Certificate is a multi-week program that teaches students how to create animations, visual effects, and motion graphics. In this course, students use Adobe After Effects, Adobe Premiere Pro, and Cinema 4D Lite to animate photos, graphics, and text. Projects include animated logos, infographics, social media promos, and title animations. The course also includes five one-on-one mentoring sessions, which students can use to get help with concepts, portfolio feedback, or job search guidance. Graduates earn a certificate of completion and have the option to retake the course for free within one year. Noble Desktop is licensed by the New York State Department of Education.

The After Effects Bootcamp is another popular offering at Noble Desktop. This multi-day course teaches students to create motion graphics and animations using Adobe After Effects. Students learn essential skills such as navigating the workspace and using basic animation techniques. The course also covers advanced topics like motion tracking, green screen removal, dynamic transitions, and audio syncing. For beginners, Noble also offers After Effects in a Day, which introduces key concepts like fade-ins, easing, interface essentials, layer animation, timeline navigation, and working with video. While knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator is helpful, it is not required.

Noble Desktop also offers certification programs, including one for Adobe After Effects.

The After Effects Certification Program is a multi-day class that prepares students to pass the Adobe Certified Professional Exam for After Effects. It includes two full courses covering beginner to advanced skills and six hours of private tutoring to reinforce exam preparation. The program fee covers the cost of the certification exam, proctoring, and one free exam retake. If you choose not to take the exam, you can receive an additional hour of private tutoring instead.

The Manhattan Edit Workshop—founded in 2002—also offers live online animation training. The Adobe After Effects Level I course is an introductory class that covers essential skills. Students learn the After Effects workflow and the fundamentals of motion graphics. Topics include creating basic animations using effects and presets, working with masks, animating text, using shape layers, and applying the puppet tool for object distortion. The course also teaches rendering and exporting techniques. Manhattan Edit Workshop also offers an Adobe After Effects Level II course, which covers more advanced skills such as transfer controls, parenting, tracking and stabilizing footage, using the roto brush tool, and keying.

Another option is Computer Training Source, Inc., which also offers live online animation classes. In After Effects Part 1, students learn to create animations, motion graphics, and visual effects in Adobe After Effects. The course includes making a composition, arranging layers, adding effects and audio, animating compositions, and working with the timeline. It also covers chroma keying, rotoscoping, and advanced effects such as particle systems and time warp. Computer Training Source also offers a follow-up course, After Effects Part 2. In this class, students animate a multimedia presentation, apply keyframes and effects, mask video, create animated slideshows, and add audio. The class also introduces the 3D camera tracker, including how to track footage, create and animate 3D text, and adjust the camera’s depth of field.

Training Connection, a computer and business training school based in Los Angeles, also offers live online animation instruction. The After Effects Fundamentals course is designed for students interested in developing video editing, motion graphics, and compositing skills for use in design and media careers. Topics include basic animation effects and presets, animating text and shapes, working with masks and 3D layers, adjusting color balance and correcting color, and rendering and exporting projects. Students receive a certificate of completion and a training manual, and they also have the option to retake the course for free within six months.

Key Code Education provides live online Adobe After Effects training as well. The Adobe After Effects I course is a multi-day program geared toward Editors, VFX Editors, and Graphic Artists. Topics include animation techniques, motion tracking fundamentals, keying techniques, and rendering and exporting projects. Students also learn productivity tips like shortcuts and property linking methods, as well as how to distinguish between layer masks and track mattes. Key Code Education’s curriculum is designed to help students prepare for work in the entertainment industry.

Animation Corporate Training

If your business could benefit from animation skills, you may be interested in Noble Desktop’s corporate animation training. Noble offers both onsite and remote training with flexible scheduling, and the ability to customize course content to meet your company’s specific goals. Students receive comprehensive support materials after class, including handouts and access to premium training videos.

If you need a more flexible training solution, you can purchase group class vouchers for your employees. This allows them to enroll individually in Noble’s regularly scheduled public classes. Bulk voucher purchases come with a discount. Contact Noble Desktop for more information about corporate animation training or to schedule a free consultation.