Reader’s Question:
I’m aspiring to be an animator and I’m looking for some guidance on my portfolio. I’ve read that some animators say it’s not necessary to include highly detailed drawings with strong shading. However, I also understand that “drawing” can refer to different styles. The studio I’m applying to specifies
that they want to see drawings and sketches. In this case, would it be acceptable to include line drawings that convey realism and a sense of three-dimensionality, rather than heavily shaded pieces? Additionally, would drawings from books like “Figure Drawing for All It’s Worth” by Andrew Loomis or “Figure Drawing: Design and Invention” by Michael Hampton qualify as acceptable drawings for my portfolio? I apologize for my awkward phrasing.
Finding My Way in Animation: A Journey Worth Sharing
So, let me tell you about this moment I had while trying to piece together my portfolio as an aspiring animator. It was a bit of a rollercoaster, to say the least! You know how it is—one minute you’re feeling all pumped up about your creativity, and the next, you’re questioning if you even know how to draw a stick figure. I remember chatting with a friend who’s been in the animation industry for a while, and we got into this deep discussion about portfolios. He mentioned that while some animators lean towards highly detailed, shaded drawings, others find success with simpler line drawings that really capture a sense of three-dimensionality. It got me thinking, especially since I was preparing my own portfolio for a studio that specifically asked for sketches.
Line Drawings vs. Detailed Shading
The idea of using line drawings instead of heavily shaded pieces felt liberating. I mean, why complicate things, right? As long as you can convey form and movement, why not go for it? I decided to give it a shot and focus on what I felt comfortable with. It was like a light bulb moment—I realized that my style could shine through even without those intense shading techniques. And then, I stumbled upon the works of Andrew Loomis and Michael Hampton. I had heard about their books before, and I’d even tried my hand at some sketches inspired by them. But I was a bit hesitant—were these really the kinds of drawings that would fit into my portfolio? I mean, they’re amazing, but would they impress the folks at the studio?
Understanding the Difference
After some research and a few conversations, I learned that there’s a distinction between fine art figure drawing and anatomical studies. I thought, “Oh man, I didn’t realize there was such a divide!” It made me appreciate the nuances of art even more. My friend mentioned that while many people skip the more formal studies, taking the time to showcase the effort put into detailed drawings could really set my portfolio apart. So, I made it a point to include some of my drawings alongside those studies. I even jotted down how long I spent on each piece—because, let’s be real, if you’re going to put in the work, you should let it shine!
Embracing the Process
I also had this funny moment where I tried to sketch using some reference images, thinking I could whip up a masterpiece. Instead, I ended up with a bunch of scribbles that made me laugh out loud. I thought, “Well, at least I’m having fun!” Sometimes, the process of creation is just as important as the final product. And you know, I also came across this collection by Yoshinari You that really inspired me. His sketches weren’t technically “figure drawing” in the traditional sense, but they spoke volumes about his artistic skill. It reminded me that sometimes, it’s about the vibe and the energy you put into your work rather than sticking to a strict guideline.
Let’s Hear Your Stories!
As I reflect on my journey, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness about sharing my portfolio. But I’m learning to embrace it all—the good, the bad, and the messy sketches in between. Have you ever navigated a similar path? Maybe you’ve tackled your own creative projects or faced questions about your work? I’d love to hear your stories or any tips you have to share in the comments! Let’s support each other on this wild ride of creativity.
