Should I study 2D or 3D Animation?

The demand for 2D and 3D animation production is growing

With the rising demand for animated movies, TV Series, and Video Games, there are more opportunities than ever in the digital space. And one of these opportunities is for animators. Students frequently research whether to study 3D animation or 2D animation, what is the difference, and what skills will bring more job opportunities. Choosing the right animation style to dive into is extremely important. Armed with the right animation skill, you can choose what your focus will be. Animators work in several sectors ranging from marketing to education.

What is the Difference Between 2D and 3D Animation?

The main difference between 2D and 3D animation is the level of artistry and mechanics. 3D is a more mechanical form of art when compared to the 2D. Likewise, 2D animation is more artistic than 3D.

A lot of the time, people experience confusion with regards to which one of these to learn. But even understanding what each one encompasses can begin to make that choice clearer.

For 2D, animators do a lot of drawing. Every frame is either drawn by hand or on a computer. For 3D, animators work with rigs. Rigs are 3D models with skeletons that can be manipulated easily.

While the above definitions might clear up a lot of confusion, it is still essential to understand what the individual features of both types of animation are.

What are the Features of 2D Animation?

Whether you choose between 3D or 2D animation depends on your understanding of the features of 2D animation. This animation movement is made in a two-dimensional artistic space. All the characters and backgrounds are created in a 2D environment.

Most two-dimensional animation starts with only drawings. Typically, the animator will create a storyboard with a series of images in succession. These images have slight positional changes, so that when they put together they make up the movement.

2D has been around for over 100 years. Famous films created in 2D animation include Tom and Jerry and The Jungle Book.

How Does 3D Animation Work?

3D animation is a more technical form of animating stories; the process involves the generation of three-dimensional moving images. These images are created in a digital environment.

The animated scenes are developed from computer-generated images. Because of their depth, 3D animation looks more realistic in comparison to 2D animation. To create 3D, first build a character. After then a skeletal structure needs to be built on a computer. The 3D functions more like a virtual puppet — an animator can control every movement, including eye blinks.

3D animation requires a more thorough understanding of mathematical principles to make the creation function. 3D animation movies include Kung Fu Panda and Toy Story.

2D vs 3D Animation Pros and Cons

Know this; we teach in the Vancouver Animation School that whether you should study 3D animation or 2D animation is not because any style is better than the other. It’s all a matter of preference.

Production costs are just as expensive when creating 3D animation or 2D animation.

The style you settle on learning has nothing to do with which is better, but which is better for you. Deciding whichever one you want to pursue is a personal decision, but we can help put you on the right track. Here are a few things to consider.

• 3D animation is just as expensive as 2D. Both take lots of time to study and practice.
• To become an expert in animation, you need high-end computer with a good graphics card.
• If you are considering remote work as a career path, both are excellent to learn.
• Once you understand the 12 principles for three-dimensional animation, you can apply them to both 2D and 3D animation.
• Both 3D and 2D animation offer a lot of creative career opportunities.
• Schools are beginning to adopt E-learning to teach animation students.

2D or 3D?

If you are asking, “what should I study, 3D animation or 2D animation?” The answer is both. However, if you are bent on choosing only one, select the one you find most enjoyable.

2D generally appeals to those that are more artistic in nature. 3D, on the other hand, is more appealing to those who enjoys math and has logical thinking.

Before making a final choice, you can attempt both styles and see which one you like best. Vancouver Animation School allows beginners to take an Introduction to Digital Arts course that includes both disciplines.

VANAS also offers 2D Computer Animation diploma program for those students who are ready to learn the fundamental principles of 2D Animation, body mechanics, and locomotion in 2D.

If you prefer 3D animation, VANAS 3D Character Animation diploma program can be a great fit for you. Through a series of assignments, students will learn how to bring life to three-dimensional digital characters to achieve sincere believable performances. Enroll today!