Animators of all experience levels could use a little extra push on occasion. Whether you’re considering a future career as an animator, looking to hone your current skills or simply enjoy an amusing cartoon, animation blogs are a great source of education, inspiration and entertainment.
No matter why you’re interested in the field, it’s important to stay up-to-date in order to stay on top of your game. Rather than spending hours scouring the internet to educate yourself on industry news and techniques, keeping tabs on reputable animation blogs will help you keep a pulse on the industry in a fraction of the time.
With so many blogs to choose from nowadays, how are you supposed to know which are worth following? That’s where we come in. We identified a handful of the most well-renowned blogs in the world of animation so you know what’s worth your time. This collection will provide you with the motivation you’ve been looking for to take your love of animation to the next level. So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our list of top animation blogs and let us know your favorites!
15 Top animation blogs worth bookmarking
1. 3D Artist
Why you should follow: 3D Artist, which doubles as a magazine, is not only for animators, but also for anyone interested in visual effects, motion graphics, modeling and much more. Within the site you will find resources, tips and tutorials, image galleries and tons of expert advice. The News and Features section allows viewers to catch up on the latest trends in the industry, as well as stay up-to-date on the newest software and other products.
You can also follow 3D Artist on Facebook and Twitter.
2. 3dtotal
Why you should follow: If 3D animation is your forte, then 3dtotal is the blog for you. The site is teeming with free tutorials, galleries, news and special features. For the more advanced animators, there are ongoing contests you can submit your work to. The community of 3D animators is strong here, with forums full of challenges, discussions and critiques.
You can also follow 3dtotal on Facebook and Twitter.
3. Animation Magazine
Why you should follow: This is the official website of Animation Magazine, a publication covering all facets of the animation industry. The site posts regular articles about everything from visual effects and digital media to licensing and tech reviews. In addition, followers have access to a handful of handy resources like job boards, event calendars and movie guides.
You can also follow Animation Magazine on Facebook and Twitter.
4. Animation Mentor
Why you should follow: Animation Mentor was launched by three friends who asked a simple question, “If we were to start over, how would we want to learn?” They felt the need to connect aspiring animators with industry experts, which is exactly the purpose of Animation Mentor. It’s chock-full of tips and tricks, tutorials and advice from the pros.
You can also follow Animation Mentor on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
5. Animation World Network
Why you should follow: According to its website, Animation World Network (AWN) is “the largest animation-related publishing group on the internet,” making it a must-read for animators of all backgrounds. This blog covers a wide array of subjects such as animator profiles, licensing, current events in the field, CGI and other animation technologies. It’s also a great resource for job-seekers and employers.
You can also follow AWN on Twitter and Facebook.
6. AnimSchoolBlog
Why you should follow: If you’re looking to brush up on your animation skills, or pick up entirely new tricks of the trade, AnimSchoolBlog is for you. The blog features one new post a month, but each post is chock-full of video tutorials and expert advice. Topics range from animating tips—such as how to animate eyes—to animation tools—like plugins for Maya.
7. Canadian Animation Blog
Why you should follow: Canadian Animation Blog began in 2008 as an online project to provide the Canadian animation community a universal platform to showcase their work and has since evolved into a hub of helpful content for animators everywhere. It’s a great source of education and inspiration as it frequently features animated shorts, event coverage, storyboards, photos and interviews from industry pros.
You can also follow Canadian Animation Blog on Facebook and Twitter.
8. Cartoon Brew
Why you should follow: Cartoon Brew has been delivering the latest news, trends and ideas in animation daily since 2004. With article topics ranging from traditional techniques like hand-drawn and stop motion to cutting-edge computer animation and visual effects, there’s something for everyone on this blog. It’s also a great way to stay up-to-date on news from animation empires like Disney, DreamWorks and Pixar.
You can also follow Cartoon Brew on Facebook , Twitter and YouTube.
9. I Want to Be an Animator
Why you should follow: I Want to Be an Animator is the perfect resource for beginning animators or animators looking to brush up on the basics. Written by an animator who has been working in the field for 10 years, this blog contains everything you need to know to begin honing your animation skills. There are lessons—beginning with animation techniques—which feature video tutorials as well as graphics and step-by-step tips. To reinforce what is taught in the lessons, there are also exercises you can try yourself to master certain skills.
You can also follow I Want to Be an Animator on Facebook.
10. Motionographer
Why you should follow: Motionographer aims to “be a source of inspiration for filmmakers, animators and designers.” They do so by sharing inspiring work, highlighting influential studios and professionals in the field and providing commentary that sparks discussion about the creative process. Motionographer is also home to a heap of helpful tutorials, coverage of industry events and an endless supply of inspiration.
You can also follow Motionographer on Facebook and Twitter.
11. On Animation
Why you should follow: On Animation is all about spotlighting inspiring content that is—you guessed it—on animation. Aside from the numerous videos posted daily, followers also have access to exclusive insight and analysis from animation pros. Content is categorized to make it easy to find information based on your focus. On Animation also provides information on industry events, useful tools and gadgets and training programs.
You can also follow On Animation on Facebook.
12. Stash
Why you should follow: Stash is not a blog for those looking to learn animation, but rather for those looking for inspiration and relevant examples of animation. While access to the Stash permanent collection is not free, it boasts the world’s largest online archive of animation, visual effects and design. If you’re not looking to dip into your pockets, the homepage of Stash offers hundreds of examples of animation and design at work, for free.
You can also follow Stash on Facebook and Twitter.
13. The Animation Blog
Why you should follow: Get inspired with The Animation Blog, a one-stop shop for animated short films, music videos, television and movies. This blog was established in 2007 and ever since has been serving up visually stunning examples of 2D and 3D animation. The blog is separated into categories separated by medium—from 2D animation to video games—so you can feast on whatever type of animation you like best.
You can also follow The Animation Blog on Twitter.
14. Traditional Animation
Why you should follow: With over 180,000 followers, Traditional Animation is a must-read for anyone with interests in hand-drawn animation. The blog features an Animation Show, which are videos featuring interviews and lessons with different animation experts. There are also written interviews, libraries of pencil tests and model sheets, as well as a forum where users can participate in animation discussions.
You can also follow Traditional Animation on Facebook and Twitter.
15. Upcoming Pixar
Why you should follow: If you’re a fan of Pixar, you’ll definitely want to follow Upcoming Pixar. Created in 2004, this blog covers all the latest Pixar news and films and is touted as being the largest Pixar fan community. Animators who grew up on these films and still eagerly anticipate the latest releases will love this blog. There is also a large forum with over 5,000 members who chat about everything Pixar and Disney.
You can also follow Upcoming Pixar on Facebook and Twitter.
Take advantage of these resources
Not everyone can say they have the opportunity to learn from and be inspired by the top names in their prospective industries. But by following these animation blogs, you’re doing just that. Bookmark this list to stay relevant and informed on the newest developments in the industry.
Absorbing wisdom and advice from other animators may even inspire you to turn your passion for animation into a career. Learn more about the qualities and skills it takes to succeed in our article, “Do You Have What It Takes for a Career in Animation?”
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