What does it take to be a complete animator?

A good animator should have knowledge of:
~ Drawing techniques
~ Animation techniques
~ Different styles of animation such as 2D and 3D animation
~ Design and layout
~ How people move and express their feelings
~ How animals move
~ How to create different moods and feelings in characters
~ Computers and animation software applications
~ The history of art and design
~ Film and television production


Besides, he or she also needs to:


~ Be artistic, creative and innovative

~ Be a good communicator

~ Have inclination for good music

~ Be able to ideate and conceptualise

~ Be focused, self-disciplined and self-motivated

~ Be able to use knowledge of the human body and how animals move to create animations

~ Be versatile and adaptable and able to accept criticism

~ Be able to work to a deadline

~ Be observant, with an eye for detail

~ Be able to work well in a team

~ Be able to understand the comic nature of cartoons