Animators produce multiple images called frames which, when played in rapid sequence, create the illusion of movement (animation). They are artists who act and tell stories, and are therefore able to convey emotion through their characters with a good technical understanding of movement and expression.

Animators create drawings, models, or computer images, taking their visual briefing from storyboards and verbal briefs from a director. There are different types of animators based on the creative techniques employed. These include: 2D image animators, 2D rigging animators, 3D or CG animators and stop-motion animators. 2D animators for example, create freehand or digitally produced drawings focusing on overall action and character performance. 3D/CG animators create drawings and wireframe rigs using computers, pre-programming models to produce the desired movements.

Animators must be adaptive, creative, organized, and interpersonally astute. Lumina’s assessment helps candidates by indicating key areas where skills match, as well as identifying skills that require development.