What are some other weird things you've heard about the animation industry?? Share them below! Also I hope you like the new quotes in here to replace this one with :)
@@hugo54758 a speciality within an already niche speciality seems excessive....but it's for some reason it's important to get the highest quality output
When I was in brick and mortar school for animation. I heard a story from my teacher he was brought in from jumbo working on Doug to work at Disney on the lion king so apparently there was a animator that painted cells and he erased the simba animation because he thought he could do it better so come to find out Disney noticed it immediately and, fired him on the spot black listed him from any animation studio. Then he also told us about the animation team that did the commercial with rats for Quiznos commercials they also were blacklisted they were asked to leave during interviews.
With that I also discovered that traditional animator use to a lot of reference to animate characters. In other words I learned that it's ok to cheat in animation.
I've come to realize so many factors play into getting a job. Timing, who you know, whether they have a spot available, where in the world you live. Best we can do is be proactive in search of opportunities and work on our craft because opportunities favor the prepared.
I really hated networking for many years until I realised networking is just 'making friends for adults'. As you said, not everyone has to be your new *best* friend. But if you go in with the attitude of making friends with a bunch of people who have at least one similar interest to you, I've found it much more relaxing and enjoyable - not to mention vastly more effective!
A couple years back a former college classmate messaged me, "Hey Spencer, how have you doing?". Was going through pretty rough stuff and said, "Hey ____. Haven't been doing super great, to be honest. Been having troubles with medical stuff. I appreciate you reaching out and hope you're doing well". They responded, "Oh so I guess you wouldn't know if 'VFX STUDIO YOU WORK AT' has any openings, would you?" 😐 I don't expect everyone to be my best pal, but when it's so blatant that someone is faking the semblance of a relationship with me just to 'get something'.. it's disheartening and gross.
I hate when people try to hit me up networking. It's like something they teach you to do in Animation schools and it's annoying AF. It's like being hit up by a Realtor or used car salesman. LA is ground zero for this. I once stooped at a a coffeehouse on my way into work wearing a company t-shirt with a logo on it. The guy making my fancy coffee said "you work at Digital Domain? Can you get me a job there?" I said "I just met you, you are a Barista" He looked at me like so what's the problem. 😡
I hate to be “that guy” but you have to look at them through nuanced lenses. I can sympathize with you that I had a somebody look at me like how you described. It is annoying. However, to that barista, you’re the closest thing they have to a recruiter, knowing someone who is a recruiter, or at least Human Resources. Granted, it could gone differently if they asked you who can they talk to about a position at Digital Domain.
When you said this didnt exist, it really hit me. For the past 4 years, you have been my guide though the animation process /journey. I am now a working animator in LA and am so grateful and thankful for everything you have given.
I landed my first game animator job just a few months ago and I knew almost no one in the indie games industry. No one at the studio that hired me. But what got me in was my demo reel showing what I wanted to do, and it lined up perfectly with the studio's style, and that one of the characters I animated was more chibi proportion just like our game characters. I spent half a year getting my demo reel ready then job hunted for like 6 months. I set Work With Indies to my startup page in chrome and when I saw the opportunity I applied and did well in the interviews. So yeah, like Wade said, get your demo reel ready. Put the work in. :)
You’re so right. I meet all sorts of people just by talking to them. I’ve met so many people, including my roommate who now works at dreamworks, and said he’d recommend me once I’m done with my degree. I never asked him to do that. This weekend I’m going to a music festival for free in VIP. Just because I thought a strangers clothes at an airport looked cool, and began a friendship there. Had no idea who they were. So be open to meeting new *people* and not new “tools to help you out”
Networking is crucial, but when you're starting out, it's going to be hard. Best thing to do is just go out and try to talk to people at events. But most people don't want to talk about work, so try to find fun topics you have in common with them. Surfing, tv shows, cult classic movies, microbiology. Something other than animation/vfx. When the world gets back to having said events, that is. Online networking isn't what it used to be. The early days of Twitter were amazing for making contacts, but now it's garbage.
@@kolacao8134 I used to compare it to a cocktail party, where you could meet people and carry on great conversations. Now it's so bloated and mostly just people shouting their opinions, and the conversational aspect fizzled out for the most part. Had to delete my account finally because it was getting so bad. (I try to avoid drama like the plague)
The thing about "who knows you" is great. I emphasize networking for jobs in my classes, but I try to make a point about how it's not about someone getting you a job. It's about having a wide net of people who see the work you do when you post pieces, so that they can get to know who you are as an artist. As long as you've put in the work, the wide network increases the "luck" of hearing about an opportunity.
That's one thing I HATE about the film/TV industry. People who social climb, they will be talking to you then as soon as someone more important steps in the room, their eyes flit to them and 'bye bye' they're gone! HATE that s**t!!
I've seen this video several times, but damn, this is the biggest truth bomb for all people in all industries. I work in the AI/ML (mainly annotation) space, and your advice applies just as well. I got my jobs through my alumni network, and I've met some really great people, who also asked me advice about what I do. And it's primarily because they knew me to be a person into data annotation, and that's something they need. So the "who knows you" part was "people in my alumni network doing a business problem", and the "what do they think of you" is "them checking out my LinkedIn, and seeing I had expertise that was valuable to them, as well as being a good person to talk to in general". But NONE of that was me merely pushing people asking for a job. I did kind of try that early on after university, to absolutely no avail, and I learnt my lesson there.
Love the Dwight clip! Definitely a better focus for who knows you. Networking is super important but exactly what you said, skeezy networking is not the way. Community is the way. “This is the way.” :)
You sir are an inspiration. I’ve had professors in my animation classes recommend your videos countless times, even times we watch in class! They’re so useful, and you showed up at such a perfect time for people like me who are studying 3D. Keep it up!
Hey sir wade, happy new year I just wanted to say thanks for recommending animation mentor over a year ago I’m in my first class with Tim I took a few workshops and glad to to see your videos all the time. Your my inspiration take care
I'd say a common mistake (mostly made by students) is to only focus on big name studios. Everyone wants to work at Disney, Pixar, Sony and so on... But there is such a variety of studios and experiences you can get elsewhere as well ! And each one can learn you something different. As an advice I'd say to stay curious ! \🙂/ Great video Sir ! 👊
@@Butterbilk Depends of where you live, but worlwide you got ReelFx, Jellyfish, , On Animation, Squeeze, Waterprood, Skydance .... And those are not even considered "small" they are still decently sized as they all have probably more than 100 employees, but they are not the huge studios like Disney or Pixar. But they provide great work. You can look for animation studios in your country and depending on where you live there might be a list of independent studios that pops up. Smaller studios have the advantage that there is a chance that they gave you more interesting shots than big ones. Studios with 200 animators will probably give you small animation sequences or clean up of mocap when you are a junior, because they have 150 more expérience people to do the nice shots. Smaller studios will trust you more, because if they only have 5 animators, they have to push them to their best.
These studios are always looking for more women. So I always tell my women friends to try out for Disney and they did. And they get into the job or internship. Guys get in too but you have to be really really good.
@@dingle2987 I kinda disagree with this. Sure Disney is looking to have more diversity in his team (as all studios should do), but saying that a girl get in mostly just for being a girl seems exaggerated. For the last decade, women are more and more present in the industry because mentalities are changing, not just because it "looks good to hire women". After my years of art/animation school, and the few years of working in this industry, not gonna lie but women I've worked with are most of the time more skilled than men at the same level. So maybe if they get into Disney, they are just better than the others (because seriously, Disney is a company that has a level of quality to maintain, they won't lower their standards just because you are a woman).
awesome video. character that superficial act is so common in sales i saw it everyday. it is 'gross' when you witness the zeal of people's basis of whats for them.
Thank you for this. Years ago it was preached that I HAD to go to X event to get a job in the industry. It felt very awkward for me meeting people like you described and ultimately I spent a bunch of money and got very little connections out of it as it wasn't my type of scene. But the resume/portfolio reviews were beneficial and some of the other skills I learned from it was super helpful and ultimately lead me to what I'm doing now.
I get what you mean by when I used to bartend. That's honestly how I found work because no matter the boss/supervisor still needs to interview. Great video.
Networking can also happen indirectly if you’re involved in online communities etc. I used to write lots of Maya tutorials and answer questions on CGTalk etc and this led to a bunch of freelance and studio work for me, because artists at the studios had found my tutorials useful and figured I must know what I’m doing 😅. Obviously you need examples of work or a reel too. Get involved out there!
Thanks for the post, you made some great points. There is a saying, and I'm paraphrasing because I don't remember it exactly, but it goes something along the line of "success is when opportunity meets preparedness." Which speaks to just one of your many good points. :)
I found this chanel today and I liked you straight up,you are educative and fun to listen to,your smile and actions makes me listen to you and i dont loose interest,fan from Kenya
I love networking and meeting new people. It can be awkward at moments. Feels almost like speed dating. I love making connections and just saying "oh hay I know a guy that can do that!" Sometimes, though, I feel like I chatter too much and my brain goes a mile a minute. Working on that one. lol
Great video Sir, I feel like a common mistake for students who are trying to break in focus their energy on the wrong things. Your work should speak for itself. Also, people can tell when you're kissing up vs trying to make a genuine connection.
this is kind of not just in animation. i always say just be nice and friendly and some professionals just want to get to know new people and some don't. you cant force it, just increase chance by contacting random people and being nice.
since your probably going to update your reel if your coming back to working in a studio maybe a series of videos of you updating your reel and going through the whole process from making a reel to landing the first job.
Something I grew to realize was that the phrase "being awesome to work with" isn't so much about not being a jerk. That's a given. Nor is it about being the nicest funnest most magnetic person to be around. A good attitude and respect is all that is needed. It's more often about being able to hit the notes. Especially the abstract performance notes. Without having to hand-hold through the shot and taking too much time. It's that and being able to provide some sort of unique value to the studio beyond animation. A perspective that supplements their artistic expression.
thank you for saying this. I was under the impression that you had to know someone. The thing is, I personally don't like making connections with the end goal of getting a job, it just doesn't feel right. I live in a city in which animation isn't a big thing. While i still have a lot to learn, im glad to know i don't need to make connections to make it.
I worked just once at a big production, and as much as I don't like this, there were people who got to be friends (or "friends", both) with the boss. On Fridays we would go to a bar to chill, so these people were hanging out later than the rest with the boss at the bar, drinking together in their group most of the time, etc. These were the ones who got opportunities in other big companies right after we finished that job. This boss, or whoever he contacted, was not really giving value to their capacities as artists, but to their social skills.... wich I think it's also important for any job, and it is natural. You don't deposit your trust in any random unknown dude with a standard reel. And I am not complaining if I have a bad reel. I suck it and keep on, I'm talking about having the same standard skills as others that are being hired. The problem is, from my experience, social abilities are the only skills required for networking. And networking counts for most of the opportunities one might find, so applying for a job showing your skills comes to play a minor part in finding a job (unless you are very good!)
That's all well and good but my issue is that every job posting for entry level 3D animator requires 2 or sometimes even 5 years of industry experience? Where the hell are you supposed to get that when that's entry level?
I love this channel! Thank you for the awesome content. I've heard that working at smaller studios is harder because you have to do more variety of work. Is that true?
Thanks for this video... It made me realise that these problems/hurdles exist for every struggling artist out there not just me.. I can correlate with the points you figured out in this video... ☺️
It's not just animation. The same is true for other industries too, especially creative ones. Very rarely will you get a job after meeting someone once. Building a relationship takes time.
Hey Wade! I graduated as a chemical engineer. And after a year in Chemical Industry and a year of learning animation and rigging on my own, I am applying for MFA in animation in the US. I still get scared sometimes about my state as an upcoming animator and designer. Do you think it is a necessary step for me to apply abroad or should I do online schooling?
This applies to pretty much all industries. I really wanted to get into media and yes my friend said they were looking for someone and basically pointed me in the direction. I could have gotten job I have now for 6 years and counting without him but it didn't hurt to be friends with him :D I really like how you expressed that. I was at those sleazy networking events and it was just ugh. Thank god there were many conferences and alike to spend the time faster ^^;
I think also some get caught up in the idea of a sexy creative Hollywood job right out of the gate. Working in advertisements or commercial rendering and having a legit job helps so much more with networking. Then as you approach others you’re already a professional in some capacity. Not just a “hobbyist” trying to break in. Also, doing commercial/industrial/ etc type work really helps on speed as it stop has to look good, but the powers at be don’t really give a shit about the artistic process. You just gotta get that shit done. Like boot camp sort of.
Hey there, how about this idea: Stop asking for approval, it's not what other people think of you, it's what you think of your work compared to what you would apply for. If you don't have anything to show, you can't get a job just for being yourself, you can however be happy about your own work, but not accept your work until it makes you happy, and I'm not saying perfectionistic destructiveness where you're proud of a turd. I'm saying, get inspired, imitate something you like, try to make it the same level and quality, live in that space for a while and see what happens. That is a place of honesty, that is a place of maturity and not the childish: "oh please give me your approval dear (parents) company! (even when I'm not a child anymore)" and when you fail, you just go into a depressive episode of a narcisistic crying fit of "wuueee, why can't it be the way _I want it to be_ ?". I feel you guys who can't get jobs, but we'll never get anywhere if we keep up the illusion that ass-kissing the right people will get us anywhere. Do you really want to get a job from someone as fake as your inconsiderate actions?
I believe the best way to get a job is to produce something that you get known for. Example: in the Cowboy Bebop English dub, Mary Elizabeth was in charge. She made such a good job that now it is considered the best anime English dub in existence. After that she was sought out by preety much everyone and got a high position at Disney instantly. If you work in industry work on some smaller promising studios for a few years. You will be able to get some good movies on your belt and if things go really well maybe even a masterpiece. If a movie is bad is mostly due to writing so as specifically animator you won't have a problem. I think that's what they meant by "other people knowing you and having you in high regards".
I don't understand the concept of wanting a job. Why not just make your own stuff? Sometimes it's cool to work with a team, but why not just form your own team. Everyone has a way to monetize things, like RUclips, or selling merch. Make your own animated whatever. That is my advice.
it's pretty gross man, I know several professional animators that are like this in the field. Thanks for sharing your experiences and bringing light to the topic
Who you know really doesn't matter at all. It's all about your reel and resume. Once you have a couple years under your belt knowing people can help though. They might tell a producer that you are looking for work for example. I have tried so many times to put forward friends resumes who are looking to break in and never once haw got them an interview.
You're talking about reputation, right? I'd imagine having a solid reputation and standing in both the public eye and social circles would naturally open almost all the doors.
That's an awesome way to put things. I'm the kind of person who just naturally networks. I don't do anything special, I don't have some hidden super secret talent gifted to me by the gods.... I'm just nice and talk to people. When we share interests I show genuine excitement, or enthusiatim about that thing.... I could probably have a roofing job in 5 minutes. I don't act like an overly excited puppy that is about to pee. I just don't judge or dismiss them. I even engage and am nice to the people most don't want to talk to for whatever reason. Just because our political or philosophical ideals don't perfectly align doesn't mean we can't have a discussion, and this is typically where I garner the most respect from people. Because most people, not all, but most will be willing to show you and your ideas respect if you show you're willing to do the same. So, I just talk to people. I'm always nice, even if I don't want to be, and only not when I need to be. But most of all I don't dismiss people. If someone takes the time to talk to me, even a total stranger, I take the time to listen for a moment. It doesn't have to be all day but a minute will not hurt. Which is about all it takes. We are all just people, and most of us want the same basic things.
You have an easier time. It's not the end all be all, but you have an in that others don't have. Yes you have to have to work, but that's default for anything. But networking is ABSOLUTELY essential. The reason schools like animation mentor have such a successful job rate is because the teachers WORK in STUDIOS! You're building relationships the whole time you're are in school! good relationships are important. Yes you can do it on your own, but it is many times the longer road.
If you make good art and put it out there, someone will notice. Yes, other factors come into play... and even some luck. But the key variable is how "noticeable" you are. And if you can't find anyone who will notice you, create your own job.
Yeah, u will always have free time if you love your work)) I never searched for job past 3 years, everyone just recommends me to others, idk how that works but I don't have to ask for a project..
(gross people section) I met someone like that at my school. They arn't fun to be around. Actually they're rather depressing to me. Its one of those things where if you're not of important stature, you dont matter to them. What's worse is if they see you have potential, and they see how you could end up somewhere big, they'll actively talk you down to ensure you don't go anywhere with what you have.
Coming from a decade in live action side of things - networking works best organically. Once you get that first job - work hard, be punctual, show up, show up on time (even for online meetings these days) and be willing to learn/ask for help. These things will get you knowing the team well and voila you inadvertently networked without trying, rinse and repeat as you gain experience and move studios and suddenly in a couple of years your network is huge and you can just contact whomever to find work, opportunities will come your way etc, etc. The other biggest lie (from talking with friends) is that you should keep your wages secret from each other - that is done to keep from organizing. The entire industry is unionized except for vfx and animation studios and it is where studios get to screw you guys especially at smaller operations who don't have the greatest business sense. I have friends in it who have been at it for years who don't know their worth are basically being underpaid for their experience because of drivel spread by others who have done the same. I am retraining as a rigger and this is a great concern to me (can no longer do set work because of injuries sustained by my job).
I feel odd now because I don't want to use folks, but at the same time, I want advice and feel any bit would help. I'm a story developer and would I have any place in this industry because I really want to do animation at the same time, but besides a high school class in animation, I have no knowledge in that regard. I just know I can develop a story relatively quickly. My own RUclips channel has swayed from Spiritual stuff, which I still do, to Prompts which I'm more then welling to give out to folks so that can make their own stories based off my prompts. It's free as I just love creating compelling stories and I would love working for others who would like benefit from my creative talents. Long story, short, if you have any advice for me, I'd love to hear it, and unfortunately this is me using your insight.
There's a difference between wanting to learn from people and wanting to use them :) There's nothing wrong with asking for advice and insight when it's welcome! Imagine meeting a celebrity in the restroom and asking them for a selfie. Time and place :P
Hi...i admire your work alot...fan from India i just thought that if u could rate or comment on your viewers work/reel and make a video about it? (we could mail or send you the video somehow)
Love your content, but could you please tone down the usage of all these clips throughout the video? I think it's interrupting the overall message a bit and it gets a little tedious after a while. Besides that, great stuff!
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
What are some other weird things you've heard about the animation industry?? Share them below! Also I hope you like the new quotes in here to replace this one with :)
It's very competitive and you have to have a specialty (animation already being a specialty in 3D)
@@hugo54758 a speciality within an already niche speciality seems excessive....but it's for some reason it's important to get the highest quality output
When I was in brick and mortar school for animation. I heard a story from my teacher he was brought in from jumbo working on Doug to work at Disney on the lion king so apparently there was a animator that painted cells and he erased the simba animation because he thought he could do it better so come to find out Disney noticed it immediately and, fired him on the spot black listed him from any animation studio. Then he also told us about the animation team that did the commercial with rats for Quiznos commercials they also were blacklisted they were asked to leave during interviews.
For years, I was lead to believe that professional animators didn't use reference. It wasn't until I went to college I was told that wasn't true.
With that I also discovered that traditional animator use to a lot of reference to animate characters. In other words I learned that it's ok to cheat in animation.
I've come to realize so many factors play into getting a job. Timing, who you know, whether they have a spot available, where in the world you live. Best we can do is be proactive in search of opportunities and work on our craft because opportunities favor the prepared.
"Opportunities favor the prepared" 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Yeah. It applies for all industries.
I really hated networking for many years until I realised networking is just 'making friends for adults'.
As you said, not everyone has to be your new *best* friend. But if you go in with the attitude of making friends with a bunch of people who have at least one similar interest to you, I've found it much more relaxing and enjoyable - not to mention vastly more effective!
A couple years back a former college classmate messaged me, "Hey Spencer, how have you doing?".
Was going through pretty rough stuff and said, "Hey ____. Haven't been doing super great, to be honest. Been having troubles with medical stuff. I appreciate you reaching out and hope you're doing well".
They responded, "Oh so I guess you wouldn't know if 'VFX STUDIO YOU WORK AT' has any openings, would you?" 😐
I don't expect everyone to be my best pal, but when it's so blatant that someone is faking the semblance of a relationship with me just to 'get something'.. it's disheartening and gross.
EW that sounds awful :O
I had a time, when I kept getting the "hey how you doing?, followed by the ask for a job"
I hate when people try to hit me up networking. It's like something they teach you to do in Animation schools and it's annoying AF. It's like being hit up by a Realtor or used car salesman. LA is ground zero for this. I once stooped at a a coffeehouse on my way into work wearing a company t-shirt with a logo on it. The guy making my fancy coffee said "you work at Digital Domain? Can you get me a job there?" I said "I just met you, you are a Barista" He looked at me like so what's the problem. 😡
I hate to be “that guy” but you have to look at them through nuanced lenses.
I can sympathize with you that I had a somebody look at me like how you described. It is annoying. However, to that barista, you’re the closest thing they have to a recruiter, knowing someone who is a recruiter, or at least Human Resources.
Granted, it could gone differently if they asked you who can they talk to about a position at Digital Domain.
When you said this didnt exist, it really hit me. For the past 4 years, you have been my guide though the animation process /journey. I am now a working animator in LA and am so grateful and thankful for everything you have given.
That's so nice!! Thank you :) And congrats!! You did the work :D
I landed my first game animator job just a few months ago and I knew almost no one in the indie games industry. No one at the studio that hired me. But what got me in was my demo reel showing what I wanted to do, and it lined up perfectly with the studio's style, and that one of the characters I animated was more chibi proportion just like our game characters. I spent half a year getting my demo reel ready then job hunted for like 6 months. I set Work With Indies to my startup page in chrome and when I saw the opportunity I applied and did well in the interviews.
So yeah, like Wade said, get your demo reel ready. Put the work in. :)
You’re so right.
I meet all sorts of people just by talking to them. I’ve met so many people, including my roommate who now works at dreamworks, and said he’d recommend me once I’m done with my degree. I never asked him to do that.
This weekend I’m going to a music festival for free in VIP. Just because I thought a strangers clothes at an airport looked cool, and began a friendship there. Had no idea who they were.
So be open to meeting new *people* and not new “tools to help you out”
Networking is crucial, but when you're starting out, it's going to be hard. Best thing to do is just go out and try to talk to people at events. But most people don't want to talk about work, so try to find fun topics you have in common with them. Surfing, tv shows, cult classic movies, microbiology. Something other than animation/vfx. When the world gets back to having said events, that is. Online networking isn't what it used to be. The early days of Twitter were amazing for making contacts, but now it's garbage.
Why is garbage?
@@kolacao8134 I used to compare it to a cocktail party, where you could meet people and carry on great conversations. Now it's so bloated and mostly just people shouting their opinions, and the conversational aspect fizzled out for the most part. Had to delete my account finally because it was getting so bad. (I try to avoid drama like the plague)
The thing about "who knows you" is great.
I emphasize networking for jobs in my classes, but I try to make a point about how it's not about someone getting you a job. It's about having a wide net of people who see the work you do when you post pieces, so that they can get to know who you are as an artist. As long as you've put in the work, the wide network increases the "luck" of hearing about an opportunity.
That's one thing I HATE about the film/TV industry. People who social climb, they will be talking to you then as soon as someone more important steps in the room, their eyes flit to them and 'bye bye' they're gone! HATE that s**t!!
Well said!
I've seen this video several times, but damn, this is the biggest truth bomb for all people in all industries. I work in the AI/ML (mainly annotation) space, and your advice applies just as well. I got my jobs through my alumni network, and I've met some really great people, who also asked me advice about what I do. And it's primarily because they knew me to be a person into data annotation, and that's something they need. So the "who knows you" part was "people in my alumni network doing a business problem", and the "what do they think of you" is "them checking out my LinkedIn, and seeing I had expertise that was valuable to them, as well as being a good person to talk to in general".
But NONE of that was me merely pushing people asking for a job. I did kind of try that early on after university, to absolutely no avail, and I learnt my lesson there.
Love the Dwight clip! Definitely a better focus for who knows you. Networking is super important but exactly what you said, skeezy networking is not the way. Community is the way. “This is the way.” :)
It’s nice to know that anyone can get an animation job without just being lucky, hard work is easier
You sir are an inspiration. I’ve had professors in my animation classes recommend your videos countless times, even times we watch in class! They’re so useful, and you showed up at such a perfect time for people like me who are studying 3D. Keep it up!
Hey sir wade, happy new year I just wanted to say thanks for recommending animation mentor over a year ago I’m in my first class with Tim I took a few workshops and glad to to see your videos all the time. Your my inspiration take care
Spot on and it doesn't just apply to animation studios, it goes for any design studio really. Well said Sir ✌️👍
Spot on! Good luck getting back into the industry. Looking forward to hearing about your journey. And I hope you keep up with your channel.
I'd say a common mistake (mostly made by students) is to only focus on big name studios. Everyone wants to work at Disney, Pixar, Sony and so on... But there is such a variety of studios and experiences you can get elsewhere as well ! And each one can learn you something different.
As an advice I'd say to stay curious ! \🙂/
Great video Sir ! 👊
What are some good smaller animation studios?
@@Butterbilk Depends of where you live, but worlwide you got ReelFx, Jellyfish, , On Animation, Squeeze, Waterprood, Skydance .... And those are not even considered "small" they are still decently sized as they all have probably more than 100 employees, but they are not the huge studios like Disney or Pixar. But they provide great work.
You can look for animation studios in your country and depending on where you live there might be a list of independent studios that pops up.
Smaller studios have the advantage that there is a chance that they gave you more interesting shots than big ones. Studios with 200 animators will probably give you small animation sequences or clean up of mocap when you are a junior, because they have 150 more expérience people to do the nice shots.
Smaller studios will trust you more, because if they only have 5 animators, they have to push them to their best.
@@BlackBaloo_ Totally agree ! 🙂
These studios are always looking for more women. So I always tell my women friends to try out for Disney and they did. And they get into the job or internship. Guys get in too but you have to be really really good.
@@dingle2987 I kinda disagree with this. Sure Disney is looking to have more diversity in his team (as all studios should do), but saying that a girl get in mostly just for being a girl seems exaggerated. For the last decade, women are more and more present in the industry because mentalities are changing, not just because it "looks good to hire women".
After my years of art/animation school, and the few years of working in this industry, not gonna lie but women I've worked with are most of the time more skilled than men at the same level.
So maybe if they get into Disney, they are just better than the others (because seriously, Disney is a company that has a level of quality to maintain, they won't lower their standards just because you are a woman).
awesome video. character that superficial act is so common in sales i saw it everyday. it is 'gross' when you witness the zeal of people's basis of whats for them.
Thank you for this. Years ago it was preached that I HAD to go to X event to get a job in the industry. It felt very awkward for me meeting people like you described and ultimately I spent a bunch of money and got very little connections out of it as it wasn't my type of scene. But the resume/portfolio reviews were beneficial and some of the other skills I learned from it was super helpful and ultimately lead me to what I'm doing now.
I get what you mean by when I used to bartend. That's honestly how I found work because no matter the boss/supervisor still needs to interview. Great video.
Networking can also happen indirectly if you’re involved in online communities etc. I used to write lots of Maya tutorials and answer questions on CGTalk etc and this led to a bunch of freelance and studio work for me, because artists at the studios had found my tutorials useful and figured I must know what I’m doing 😅. Obviously you need examples of work or a reel too. Get involved out there!
Thanks for the post, you made some great points. There is a saying, and I'm paraphrasing because I don't remember it exactly, but it goes something along the line of "success is when opportunity meets preparedness." Which speaks to just one of your many good points. :)
I found this chanel today and I liked you straight up,you are educative and fun to listen to,your smile and actions makes me listen to you and i dont loose interest,fan from Kenya
I love networking and meeting new people. It can be awkward at moments. Feels almost like speed dating. I love making connections and just saying "oh hay I know a guy that can do that!" Sometimes, though, I feel like I chatter too much and my brain goes a mile a minute. Working on that one. lol
Digging the new look Sir hope 2022 is safe & healthy for you with new excitement.
I can also totally relate to being on the receiving end as well. 😒🙄
I want to learn blender from Zero to Final...
Could you suggest me a better course or site who could teach me blender..
I am a beginner in this area.
Great video Sir, I feel like a common mistake for students who are trying to break in focus their energy on the wrong things. Your work should speak for itself. Also, people can tell when you're kissing up vs trying to make a genuine connection.
Where did you grow up in socal? I grew up in the SCV
this is kind of not just in animation. i always say just be nice and friendly and some professionals just want to get to know new people and some don't. you cant force it, just increase chance by contacting random people and being nice.
since your probably going to update your reel if your coming back to working in a studio maybe a series of videos of you updating your reel and going through the whole process from making a reel to landing the first job.
You know it! ;D
Really nice video, it really shows that it's not about the people you know, it's about drive, it's about power
Stay hungry. Devour.
Something I grew to realize was that the phrase "being awesome to work with" isn't so much about not being a jerk. That's a given. Nor is it about being the nicest funnest most magnetic person to be around. A good attitude and respect is all that is needed.
It's more often about being able to hit the notes. Especially the abstract performance notes. Without having to hand-hold through the shot and taking too much time.
It's that and being able to provide some sort of unique value to the studio beyond animation. A perspective that supplements their artistic expression.
thank you for saying this. I was under the impression that you had to know someone. The thing is, I personally don't like making connections with the end goal of getting a job, it just doesn't feel right. I live in a city in which animation isn't a big thing. While i still have a lot to learn, im glad to know i don't need to make connections to make it.
I worked just once at a big production, and as much as I don't like this, there were people who got to be friends (or "friends", both) with the boss. On Fridays we would go to a bar to chill, so these people were hanging out later than the rest with the boss at the bar, drinking together in their group most of the time, etc. These were the ones who got opportunities in other big companies right after we finished that job. This boss, or whoever he contacted, was not really giving value to their capacities as artists, but to their social skills.... wich I think it's also important for any job, and it is natural. You don't deposit your trust in any random unknown dude with a standard reel.
And I am not complaining if I have a bad reel. I suck it and keep on, I'm talking about having the same standard skills as others that are being hired.
The problem is, from my experience, social abilities are the only skills required for networking. And networking counts for most of the opportunities one might find, so applying for a job showing your skills comes to play a minor part in finding a job (unless you are very good!)
You are super inspirational. That little frog you created in the grease pencil vid. Was so cool.
This applies to every workplace, and I'm gonna keep quote fresh. Thanks for the video!
That's all well and good but my issue is that every job posting for entry level 3D animator requires 2 or sometimes even 5 years of industry experience? Where the hell are you supposed to get that when that's entry level?
Make your own experience :) No one says you have to be given a job, create one yourself by making things. Build a demo reel through your own ideas.
I love this channel! Thank you for the awesome content. I've heard that working at smaller studios is harder because you have to do more variety of work. Is that true?
Thanks for this video... It made me realise that these problems/hurdles exist for every struggling artist out there not just me.. I can correlate with the points you figured out in this video... ☺️
It's not just animation. The same is true for other industries too, especially creative ones. Very rarely will you get a job after meeting someone once. Building a relationship takes time.
Hey Wade! I graduated as a chemical engineer. And after a year in Chemical Industry and a year of learning animation and rigging on my own, I am applying for MFA in animation in the US. I still get scared sometimes about my state as an upcoming animator and designer. Do you think it is a necessary step for me to apply abroad or should I do online schooling?
I'm not sure if Disney is hiring now, but Pixar is excepting internships this coming spring.
I am *so* pulling up one of your videos and playing it next time I see you :D
Seriously - good advice and valid points.
This applies to pretty much all industries. I really wanted to get into media and yes my friend said they were looking for someone and basically pointed me in the direction. I could have gotten job I have now for 6 years and counting without him but it didn't hurt to be friends with him :D I really like how you expressed that. I was at those sleazy networking events and it was just ugh. Thank god there were many conferences and alike to spend the time faster ^^;
I think also some get caught up in the idea of a sexy creative Hollywood job right out of the gate. Working in advertisements or commercial rendering and having a legit job helps so much more with networking.
Then as you approach others you’re already a professional in some capacity. Not just a “hobbyist” trying to break in. Also, doing commercial/industrial/ etc type work really helps on speed as it stop has to look good, but the powers at be don’t really give a shit about the artistic process. You just gotta get that shit done. Like boot camp sort of.
Loving the new space Sir Wade! Keep at it!
Another awesome vid! Great work :)
1:33 Wow. Yes.
Thanks for clarifying the “who you know” part
Hey there, how about this idea:
Stop asking for approval, it's not what other people think of you, it's what you think of your work compared to what you would apply for.
If you don't have anything to show, you can't get a job just for being yourself, you can however be happy about your own work, but not accept your work until it makes you happy, and I'm not saying perfectionistic destructiveness where you're proud of a turd. I'm saying, get inspired, imitate something you like, try to make it the same level and quality, live in that space for a while and see what happens.
That is a place of honesty, that is a place of maturity and not the childish: "oh please give me your approval dear (parents) company! (even when I'm not a child anymore)" and when you fail, you just go into a depressive episode of a narcisistic crying fit of "wuueee, why can't it be the way _I want it to be_ ?".
I feel you guys who can't get jobs, but we'll never get anywhere if we keep up the illusion that ass-kissing the right people will get us anywhere. Do you really want to get a job from someone as fake as your inconsiderate actions?
😂 true.
Which software you work bro
Can any one say which software he use
I believe the best way to get a job is to produce something that you get known for.
Example: in the Cowboy Bebop English dub, Mary Elizabeth was in charge. She made such a good job that now it is considered the best anime English dub in existence. After that she was sought out by preety much everyone and got a high position at Disney instantly.
If you work in industry work on some smaller promising studios for a few years. You will be able to get some good movies on your belt and if things go really well maybe even a masterpiece. If a movie is bad is mostly due to writing so as specifically animator you won't have a problem.
I think that's what they meant by "other people knowing you and having you in high regards".
I don't understand the concept of wanting a job. Why not just make your own stuff? Sometimes it's cool to work with a team, but why not just form your own team. Everyone has a way to monetize things, like RUclips, or selling merch. Make your own animated whatever. That is my advice.
This is a great video and thank you for taking the time to cover this.
Great video! Loving the shirt! 👌
it's pretty gross man, I know several professional animators that are like this in the field. Thanks for sharing your experiences and bringing light to the topic
Who you know really doesn't matter at all. It's all about your reel and resume. Once you have a couple years under your belt knowing people can help though. They might tell a producer that you are looking for work for example.
I have tried so many times to put forward friends resumes who are looking to break in and never once haw got them an interview.
"He watched the video while he was with us!"🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
You're talking about reputation, right? I'd imagine having a solid reputation and standing in both the public eye and social circles would naturally open almost all the doors.
That's an awesome way to put things. I'm the kind of person who just naturally networks. I don't do anything special, I don't have some hidden super secret talent gifted to me by the gods.... I'm just nice and talk to people. When we share interests I show genuine excitement, or enthusiatim about that thing.... I could probably have a roofing job in 5 minutes. I don't act like an overly excited puppy that is about to pee. I just don't judge or dismiss them. I even engage and am nice to the people most don't want to talk to for whatever reason. Just because our political or philosophical ideals don't perfectly align doesn't mean we can't have a discussion, and this is typically where I garner the most respect from people. Because most people, not all, but most will be willing to show you and your ideas respect if you show you're willing to do the same. So, I just talk to people. I'm always nice, even if I don't want to be, and only not when I need to be. But most of all I don't dismiss people. If someone takes the time to talk to me, even a total stranger, I take the time to listen for a moment. It doesn't have to be all day but a minute will not hurt. Which is about all it takes. We are all just people, and most of us want the same basic things.
@4:29 I thought that was your response to the guy that started to "Love Bomb" you. You should have igged him like how you turned to that siren.
You have an easier time. It's not the end all be all, but you have an in that others don't have. Yes you have to have to work, but that's default for anything. But networking is ABSOLUTELY essential. The reason schools like animation mentor have such a successful job rate is because the teachers WORK in STUDIOS! You're building relationships the whole time you're are in school! good relationships are important. Yes you can do it on your own, but it is many times the longer road.
the new background is really cool
This was toatally spot on Sir on the tips. Loving the new space Sir it's coming along nicely.
Wade, you're awesome! 🙌
If you make good art and put it out there, someone will notice. Yes, other factors come into play... and even some luck. But the key variable is how "noticeable" you are. And if you can't find anyone who will notice you, create your own job.
Yeah, u will always have free time if you love your work))
I never searched for job past 3 years, everyone just recommends me to others, idk how that works but I don't have to ask for a project..
Every time I watch one of your videos I get one step closer to dropping out of Sheridan. But like in a good way
Hahahahaha I don't know whether to be proud or terrified about that takeaway :P
Such a great video, it can be applied to any industry
(gross people section) I met someone like that at my school. They arn't fun to be around. Actually they're rather depressing to me. Its one of those things where if you're not of important stature, you dont matter to them. What's worse is if they see you have potential, and they see how you could end up somewhere big, they'll actively talk you down to ensure you don't go anywhere with what you have.
Off topic but that beard looks absolutely awesome!
As some one trying to get into cg industry this is very useful.
Thank you for this video, I said something similar in my fb page, and people fought me on it
New space, new beard ❤️❤️👍🏻👍🏻
great advice!!!!!!!!!
Cool new look
Wow. This is some good advice. I'll keep it in mind for the future :D
Coming from a decade in live action side of things - networking works best organically. Once you get that first job - work hard, be punctual, show up, show up on time (even for online meetings these days) and be willing to learn/ask for help. These things will get you knowing the team well and voila you inadvertently networked without trying, rinse and repeat as you gain experience and move studios and suddenly in a couple of years your network is huge and you can just contact whomever to find work, opportunities will come your way etc, etc. The other biggest lie (from talking with friends) is that you should keep your wages secret from each other - that is done to keep from organizing. The entire industry is unionized except for vfx and animation studios and it is where studios get to screw you guys especially at smaller operations who don't have the greatest business sense. I have friends in it who have been at it for years who don't know their worth are basically being underpaid for their experience because of drivel spread by others who have done the same. I am retraining as a rigger and this is a great concern to me (can no longer do set work because of injuries sustained by my job).
great advice!
I agree, but I do think if you know the right people you are more likely to be given a chance if your skills are not quite there yet.
Sir Wade. Yes. I wish there were a Love button.
this is a very useful networking tips
very good quote!
Love it!! Very true
I feel odd now because I don't want to use folks, but at the same time, I want advice and feel any bit would help. I'm a story developer and would I have any place in this industry because I really want to do animation at the same time, but besides a high school class in animation, I have no knowledge in that regard. I just know I can develop a story relatively quickly. My own RUclips channel has swayed from Spiritual stuff, which I still do, to Prompts which I'm more then welling to give out to folks so that can make their own stories based off my prompts. It's free as I just love creating compelling stories and I would love working for others who would like benefit from my creative talents. Long story, short, if you have any advice for me, I'd love to hear it, and unfortunately this is me using your insight.
There's a difference between wanting to learn from people and wanting to use them :) There's nothing wrong with asking for advice and insight when it's welcome! Imagine meeting a celebrity in the restroom and asking them for a selfie. Time and place :P
@@SirWade Agreed, well any advice is welcomed. If you have none, it's fine as well, any insight I get is great as well.
you and blender guru look like disney stars like having your own shows
Just starting the video, so just to get the superficial comment out the way: sick beard!!
Finally some real good advice.
This applies to... Anything really
W victor for telling him bout the job
Hi...i admire your work alot...fan from India
i just thought that if u could rate or comment on your viewers work/reel and make a video about it?
(we could mail or send you the video somehow)
people are strange
Love your content, but could you please tone down the usage of all these clips throughout the video? I think it's interrupting the overall message a bit and it gets a little tedious after a while. Besides that, great stuff!
The Biggest Lie In Animation
is that you don't have to study in an animation collage
and buy high end equipment to make good animation
So studying it in college is necessary?
Second!
First
You win! High-five!