Episode 8 - University to Hollywood

Host: David DesRoches, Quinnipiac University

Guests: Timothy Suarez, Blue Sky Studios

"Select+CT" is a Digital Media Connecticut (DMCT) podcast series dedicated to Connecticut's Digital Media industry!

Why do some animators with the same degree get hired to create for Disney, whilst others do not? Specialization. Especially if you’re applying to a well-known studio such as Bluesky or Dreamworks. You must specialize in one particular area of animation. Episode 8 of the Select+CT podcast covers the transfer from college dorm to hollywood.

Interviewer David DesRoches spoke with Blue Sky Studio Animator Timothy Suarez about how to land a highly regarded position in the animation industry. Tim has worked on productions such as The Peanuts Movie and Ice Age. Suarez emphasizes that your path as a creator will vary depending on the studio you apply to. He highlighted that having a background in figure drawing can significantly improve your chances of being hired; Prior figure drawing experience helps improve the believability of your character. 

“It's more likely that you’re going to get into one of these bigger studios if you just commit to one specialty,” said Tim. If you're an animator, they'll prefer it if you specialize in 3D performances. Animation studios look for people who specialize in one thing because they can work with a diverse team who also individually specialize in one thing.

Takeaways from Tim:

• Figure drawing, learning posing, or studying the anatomy of a pose are all useful skills to attain before starting your animation career. Prior figure drawing experience helps give weight to a character so their body moves in a more believable, accurate way. 
• Larger studios like Dreamworks and Bluesky are seeking students who specialize in one particular area of the field. Choose one area of specialization and focus on that, you are more likely to be hired at that fancy studio if you do.