Breaking into Animation: A Guide to Motion Graphics Internships
The animation industry is a vibrant and competitive field, drawing talent from diverse backgrounds. For aspiring motion graphics artists, internships and trainee programs offer invaluable opportunities to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and potentially launch a career. Several established studios provide structured programs designed to nurture emerging talent. This article explores the landscape of motion graphics internships, specifically focusing on the opportunities available at leading studios such as Walt Disney Animation Studios, DreamWorks Animation, and Pixar.
Immersing Yourself in the World of Animation
Internship programs, such as the ones offered at Walt Disney Animation Studios and DreamWorks Animation, serve as a crucial bridge between academic learning and real-world application. These programs provide a comprehensive introduction to the animation pipeline, exposing interns to the diverse roles and collaborative environment that characterize the industry.
Walt Disney Animation Studios' Internship Program
Walt Disney Animation Studios' Internship Program is a 10-12 week paid experience. It immerses participants in the artistry, technology, and collaborative spirit behind animated films like Frozen, Encanto, and Zootopia. Interns are integrated into teams across Production, Technology, and Studio departments, gaining exposure to the collaborative dynamics between artists, management, engineers, and problem solvers.
DreamWorks Animation's Internship and Early Career Programs
DreamWorks Animation offers a multifaceted approach to early career development, with internships offered three times a year (Spring, Summer, and Fall). These internships are open to students and recent graduates (within six months of graduation), and are paid, lasting 10 weeks. They are offered remotely and/or on a hybrid basis, depending on the department. Interns at DreamWorks dive into real productions, learning the 2D & CG pipeline and experiencing the creative environment firsthand.
DreamWorks also fosters talent through several other initiatives:
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Trainee Program: This program provides hands-on experience on a Television or Feature production, with trainees learning from award-winning artists and working directly on actual productions. The program includes a strategically tailored curriculum taught by industry and studio professionals, with Directors and Artists mentoring the Trainees.
Animator Apprentice Program: Open to graduates with less than 2 years of work experience, this 12-week intensive training program within Feature Animation gives aspiring animators the chance to gain hands-on experience. Apprentices are mentored by the Resident Program Lead and individually assigned mentors. The curriculum focuses on building animation skills to prepare them for the Cycles Animation Team. Upon successful completion of the training, Apprentices may move into cycles animation and then become Assistant Animators.
LAUNCH Fellowship Program: This program offers students the opportunity to engage with DreamWorks virtually, building a professional network, attending workshops, and receiving mentorship from seasoned professionals.
DreamWorks Immersion Day: This annual event aims to nurture inclusivity in animation by offering students from Los Angeles communities a behind-the-scenes look at film and TV production, along with opportunities to network with artists and creative executives.
Summer Speaker Series: Founded in 2020, this week-long virtual event features a variety of topics and provides an inside look into the studio and the creative minds behind its television shows and feature films.
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Pixar's Internships and Residencies
Pixar offers internships and residency programs designed to provide emerging talent with a unique perspective on animation. These programs offer an opportunity to dive into the world of animation.
Internship Program: During this 12-week paid experience, interns are immersed in the creative filmmaking process, collaborating with art and technology teams, completing hands-on projects, and attending special studio events. Technology interns participate in projects based on a team’s focus area. Other internships engage with operations teams like Public Relations, Marketing, and Archives.
Residency Program: Lasting up to one year, residencies offer a deeply immersive experience, allowing participants to collaborate directly with Pixar employees on studio projects as an integral part of the team. Residents gain access to company events, initiatives, and amenities, fostering personal and professional growth.
What to Expect as an Intern
Interns often find themselves integrated into the day-to-day operations of the studio, contributing to ongoing projects and learning from experienced professionals. The experiences of former interns at DreamWorks highlight the value of these programs:
- Hands-on Responsibilities: Interns are often entrusted with responsibilities that make them feel like integral parts of the team. This includes taking on tasks and having questions answered by the team.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Interns receive invaluable feedback and guidance from mentors, art directors, and other professionals.
- Learning Resources: Programs provide helpful learning resources through virtual workshops and lectures.
Preparing for Your Internship Application
Securing an internship in the animation industry requires careful preparation and a well-crafted application. DreamWorks provides some insights into what they look for in potential interns:
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- Portfolio: An ideal visual development portfolio showcases a strong design foundation of perspective, composition, painting, lighting, and color theory. You can include personal, academic, or professional projects. An ideal story portfolio will contain strong storyboard samples (personal, academic, or professional projects). Include your story thought process through sketches, character poses, facial expressions, designs, etc.
- Resume: Work experience, community involvement, and student leadership experience are all considered.
- Cover Letter: A cover letter may be required, especially for internships involving writing and communication skills.
Practical Considerations
Before applying for an internship, it's important to consider the practical aspects of the program:
- Location: DreamWorks' studio is located in Glendale, California.
- Program Format: Internship and Trainee Programs may be offered on a hybrid basis.
- Compensation: All early career programs are paid at a competitive hourly rate.
- Housing and Relocation: Studios typically do not offer housing and relocation assistance, requiring interns and trainees to cover their own expenses. However, some studios may offer suggestions and connect interns with others looking for housing.
From Intern to Full-Time Employee
While employment is not guaranteed, many interns and trainees successfully transition into full-time roles at the studio. The experiences of former interns demonstrate the potential for career advancement:
- Building Bridges: Internships can help build bridges that lead to conversion to Full time employee at the studio.
- Smooth Transition: Taking on responsibilities as an intern can smooth the transition into becoming a full-time Production Assistant.
- Career Advancement: Internships can lead to positions such as production assistant, production coordinator, and ultimately, Vis Dev Artist.
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