A computer animator creates lifelike characters.
If you're creative, can work independently and love using computers, consider a career in graphic art or computer animation. Although these careers may require working under pressure to meet deadlines, they are rewarding. These graphic art and computer animation careers let you use your imagination to wow clients, convey a message and influence trends. Educational requirements vary according to the particular job.
Graphic Designer
A graphic designer, also called a graphic artist, creates and produces visual solutions that convey a message his clients want to communicate to their users. Typically, a graphic designer uses various print and electronic media such as animation, illustration and photography. A designer also produces logos, signs, marketing brochures and promotional displays. A graphic designer determines the needs of clients, conducts research, and creates a visual message that appeals to the clients' customers. The designer prepares sketches by hand or uses computer-aided software to show their design. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for a graphic designer was $42,400 as of 2008.
Animator
An animator, or multi-media artist, constructs visual images such as animation or special effects using electronic media, computers, film and video. The animator typically works on projects such as movies, video games, commercials and music videos. He draws images on paper, and then scans them into a computer. She plans storyboards with animated narrative sequences, and creates two- and three-dimensional pictures showing moving objects. She may edit animation, make character look lifelike and create proofs. Also, an animator produces multimedia presentations, promotional products and web pages. According to O-net Center, the median salary for an animator as of 2009 was $58,250 per year.
Desktop Publisher
A desktop publisher is someone who combines text and graphic art, such as photographs, animations or illustrations, in documents. These documents are in books, newspapers, brochures, magazines and calendars. A publisher may write text such as cutlines or headlines that accompany graphic art. According to BLS, a desktop publisher formats documents, which includes selecting column width, spacing and type style. He may copyedit articles, too. In 2008, the median salary for a desktop publisher was $36,600 a year, according to BLS.
