2D animation is a kind of an art form that has caught the attention of audiences for a very long time now. There is no doubt about that.
In this post, we will discuss some of the best online courses for learning 2D animation and produce what 2d Animation Studios in Houston do. So let’s not wait any longer and jump right into it!
1. Animation Mentor: 2D Animation for Beginners
Animation Mentor is a well-known platform in the animation industry, offering a variety of courses taught by industry professionals. Their “2D Animation for Beginners” course is a fantastic starting point for aspiring animators.
Course Highlights:
– Instructor Expertise: Learn from professional animators who have worked on major film and TV projects.
– Hands-On Projects: Gain practical experience by working on real-world animation exercises.
– Personalized Feedback: Receive detailed critiques on your work to help you improve.
This course covers the basics of 2D animation, including principles like squash and stretch, timing, and spacing. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in 2D animation and a portfolio of their work.
2. Udemy: The Beginner’s Guide to 2D Animation in Toon Boom Harmony
Udemy is a popular online learning platform that offers courses on a wide range of subjects. “The Beginner’s Guide to 2D Animation in Toon Boom Harmony” is perfect for those who want to learn professional-grade animation software.
Course Highlights:
– Software Focused: Master Toon Boom Harmony, a leading 2D animation software used by studios worldwide.
– Comprehensive Lessons: Cover everything from basic drawing tools to advanced animation techniques.
– Affordable Pricing: Accessible pricing with frequent discounts and lifetime access to course materials.
Students will learn how to create characters, animate scenes, and utilize various tools within Toon Boom Harmony. This course is ideal for those looking to gain proficiency in industry-standard software.
3. Skillshare: Animation for Illustration: Adding Movement with Procreate and Photoshop
Skillshare offers a plethora of creative courses, including “Animation for Illustration,” which is tailored for illustrators who want to bring their artwork to life.
Course Highlights:
– Illustration Integration: Focus on animating existing illustrations using Procreate and Photoshop.
– Project-Based Learning: Work on projects that you can use in your portfolio or social media.
– Community Support: Engage with a community of fellow learners and receive feedback.
This course is particularly useful for illustrators who want to explore animation without needing to learn complex software. It’s also great for creating animated content for social media or personal projects.
4. Coursera: Game Design: Art and Concepts Specialization
Offered by California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) through Coursera, this specialization covers various aspects of game design, including 2D animation.
Course Highlights:
– Academic Rigor: Learn from CalArts faculty, a prestigious institution in the arts.
– Comprehensive Curriculum: Explore character animation, world design, and interactive animation.
– Flexible Schedule: Study at your own pace with flexible deadlines.
While this specialization covers more than just 2D animation, it’s a great choice for those interested in game design and animation. You’ll gain a broader understanding of how animation fits into the larger context of game development.
5. Animation Mentor: 2D Animation for Games
Another offering from Animation Mentor, “2D Animation for Games,” is designed for those looking to break into the gaming industry.
Course Highlights:
– Industry-Relevant Skills: Learn animation techniques specifically for video games.
– Experienced Instructors: Gain insights from professionals working in the gaming industry.
– Portfolio Development: Create a portfolio of game-ready animations.
This course focuses on animating characters and objects within a gaming context, teaching you how to create engaging and interactive animations.
6. Domestika: Introduction to Traditional Animation Techniques
Domestika is a platform known for its high-quality courses taught by creative professionals. “Introduction to Traditional Animation Techniques” is perfect for those who want to learn classic animation methods.
Course Highlights:
– Traditional Focus: Emphasis on hand-drawn animation techniques.
– Experienced Instructor: Taught by professionals with extensive industry experience.
– Engaging Content: Learn through a mix of video lessons and practical exercises.
This course is ideal for anyone interested in the traditional aspects of animation, providing a solid foundation in hand-drawn techniques that can be applied to digital animation as well.
7. LinkedIn Learning: 2D Animation: Tips and Tricks
LinkedIn Learning offers a variety of professional courses, including “2D Animation: Tips and Tricks.” This course is designed to help animators at all levels improve their skills and learn new techniques.
Course Highlights:
– Practical Insights: Learn valuable tips and tricks from industry experts.
– Wide Range of Topics: Covers various aspects of 2D animation, from character movement to effects.
– Flexible Learning: Access course materials at your own pace.
This course is excellent for animators looking to refine their techniques and gain practical knowledge that can be applied to their projects immediately.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right online course for learning 2D animation depends on various things. If you are a beginner looking for a solid foundation or someone curious to learn more in this field, there’s a course tailored to your needs.
