Introduction to 2D Animation

• 2D animation is creating movement in a two-dimensional space involving characters, creatures, effects, and backgrounds.
• The illusion of movement is achieved through sequencing individual drawings over time.
• 2D animation's origins trace back to the late 19th century with pioneers like Émile Reynaud and J. Stuart Blackton.
• Experimentation with sequential images to create motion was ground work for a revolutionary artistic medium.
• 2D animation has evolved from hand-drawn frames to digital technology.
• Modern tools like Toon Boom Harmony and Adobe After Effects enable more efficient production.
• 2D animators make characters, objects, and backgrounds move in a flat, two-dimensional environment.
• Animators are also storytellers, ensuring character movement tells a clear story.
• Early 2D animation involved painstaking hand-drawn frames, with each second typically divided into 24 frames.
• Depending on the style, animators might use as many as 24 unique drawings per second (24fps) or as few as two.
• "On 2s" is a conventional approach where a drawing is created every two frames (12fps) to save production time and costs.
• Digital tools allow for more complex and visually stunning animations.
• Examples of digital techniques are the implementation of computer software like Toon Boom Harmony or Adobe After Effects.
• The evolution of 2D animation has enhanced its visual capabilities and expanded its applications across various platforms.
• Disney's "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" is an classic films.
• 2D animation's versatility allows it to span multiple genres, from children's tales to adult narratives.
• Despite technological advancements, 2D animation's timeless appeal endures, offering a nostalgic experience.
• 2D animation is more popular and diverse than ever, found in TV shows, video games, feature films etc.
• Vector animation for Mitsubishi Electric and Animation 2D for Opomarket, are examples of its success.
• Social media platforms like Snapchat are using animated 2D episodes.
• Rapid evolution of 2D animation has led to a boom in television animation.
• Streaming services are constantly seeking for new content.
• The broad applications of 2D animation engage audiences and convey messages effectively.
• The demand for talented 2D animators has greatly increased.

Traditional Animation

• Traditional animation, uses hand-drawn or classical techniques, with each frame meticulously crafted by hand.
• Animators draw each frame on paper, transferred onto transparent sheets known as cels.
• Cels are layered over static backgrounds to produce a complete scene.
• Each frame captures incremental movements, which, when played in sequence, result in fluid motion.
• This process requires animation to draw thousands of frames to complete a single animated feature.

Modern Animation

• Modern 2D animation leverages computers to enhance and streamline the animation process.
• Animators create characters, backgrounds, and animations using specialized software.
• Vector-based drawing, rigging systems, and motion tweening, reduce the need for frame-by-frame drawing.
• Modern 2D animation integrates with other digital technologies.
• Interactive animations can be created for video games, mobile apps, and websites.

2D vs 3D Animation

• 2D and 3D animation differ in visual style, production process, and applications.
• 2D animation involves creating images in two dimensions (X and Y axes).
• It generally has a flat appearance and is often more stylized and cartoonish.
• 3D animation involves creating images in three dimensions, adding depth (Z axis).
• The production process 2D involves drawing each frame individually, which is less complex and quicker.
• The production process 3D requires creating 3D models and rigging them for movement.
• 2D animation is generally more cost-effective and faster to produce than 3D animation.

2D Animation Production Process

• The process of creating 2D animation is segmented into three distinct parts.
• There is no singular "right" way to animate.
• Animated films are produced differently, utilizing various techniques and technologies.
• Processes may be executed in different orders.

2D Animator Skills

• 2D animators need a strong foundation in drawing and illustration.
• Essential is understanding the principles of animation, such as timing, spacing, and squash and stretch.
• Technical proficiency with 2D animation software, such as Adobe Animate or Toon Boom Harmony, is crucial.
• They need a keen eye for detail and composition, enabling them to craft visually appealing scenes + coherence.
• Experience with storyboarding and character design enhances ones ability to contribute creatively to a project.

2D Animator Employment

• 2D animators can find work in feature films, television shows, video games, and advertising.
• Animators may be employed by production companies, animation studios, or advertising agencies.
• They create content for commercials, mobile apps, and websites.
• Available roles range from animators and storyboard artists to character designers and background painters.
• New roles continue to emerge as technology evolves.

2D Animator Salary Expectations

• Salary expectations vary based on experience, location, and industry.
• Junior animators or entry-level positions can expect to earn in the range of €30,000 to €45,000 per year.
• Mid-level animators with 3-5 years of experience can expect to earn an average salary of €45,000 to €60,000 per year.
• Senior animators, animation directors, or technical animators with extensive experience can exceed averages.
• Potential for higher earnings increases with seniority and expertise.
• Note that salary figures are averages and can vary considerably based on the specific role and market conditions.

2D Animation in 2023 and 2024

• 2D animation is experiencing a renaissance, combining time-honored techniques with state-of-the-art technology.
• The trend of hybrid animations, which blends 2D and 3D components, is expanding creative horizons.
• Advanced tools like Adobe Animate and Toon Boom Harmony are now more capable than ever.
• There's been an increased appetite for 2D animated content, due to the popularity of streaming services.

2D animation involves creating movement in a two-dimensional space. The illusion of movement is achieved through sequencing individual drawings over time. Modern tools like Toon Boom Harmony and Adobe After Effects enable efficient production. Animators are also storytellers, ensuring character movement tells a clear story.