ANIMATION FOR BEGINNERS

A comprehensive, expanded edition of a 2014 how-to guide for readers seeking careers in animation.

Meroz, the creator of the animation training website Bloop Animation, explains that his art form is more than just classic cartoons: “Animation is the art of creating life,” he writes, and that act of creation is more complicated than many would expect. He begins by challenging a commonly held notion: “I always assumed animators had to be amazing fine artists,” he writes. “But there was another way to make movies: 3D animation,” which uses very different skills. Meroz then leads readers through the basic principles of animated works and the different types of animation, from traditional, frame-by-frame cel animation to stop-motion and more. In the book’s second part, Meroz explores his own experiences creating a short film, including the complex process of preproduction and storyboarding, and defines such terms as animatics. Meroz makes it clear that he can’t effectively teach readers everything they need to know about 3-D modeling or cinematography in a single chapter, but he strives to succinctly explain the basic, essential processes involved. He delves into technical aspects, such as rigging and pre-visualization, and artistic considerations, such as choosing a genre and a catchy title. He even provides detailed recommendations on how to cast voice actors and how to create a good first press kit. The author concludes by showing how animators can potentially monetize their art and get freelance work.

The author’s perspective in this book, as a recent animation school graduate making his way in the industry, nicely lends itself to concrete and practical advice. He’s clearly thought through every tricky detail that might halt someone’s progress when making a first film. He clearly explains the pros and cons of using YouTube, for example, and clarifies his own “Restriction Method,” which involves setting constraints that can foster creativity. His personal, conversational tone makes much of the text feel like the advice of a good friend. For instance, for those who have no idea where to start with a project, he urges, “Do what I did. Pick the simplest environment and focus on the characters.” Meroz never shies away from the many difficulties that animators face, however, and he honestly notes the large amount of work that one must put in: “If you’re an artist, and you don’t continually work on your art because you’re not inspired, there’s a very simple term for you: amateur.” In the book’s later sections, though, he drifts from how-to into self-help, advising readers on how to deal with rejection, waiting on potential jobs, and even talking to loved ones who are less than supportive. These sections may not appeal to those looking for a more technical manual, but Meroz is clearly writing to a very specific audience: people traveling the same career path as he is. For them, he certainly has a lot to say about getting the most out of their chosen art form.

An impressively thorough and well-rounded tour of the animation game.