The Pitfalls of the Animation Industry - Pros and Cons

[@douglaslitos4929]

Ten year animator vet in the industry myself. I totally agree with your perspective. Thanks for making this video :D

[@jeandenishaas]

Douglas Litos You’re welcome! And I agree with her perspective as well!

[@carinaanim]

To be true Jean-Denis, This happens everywhere, in films and outside films. It can be whatever work; restaurants, hospitals, banks and so on. As long as we are dealing with people, individuals, there will always be a different work environment. I am an animator and director, and I have been working from low to high, and it doesn't matter where you work. It is all about the people, and that isnt something you can control. My first job as a Jr animator was very toxic I would say, but it gave me the best lessons, some really good punches that woke me up. I learned to work hard, I learned to work fast and to help the team. Instead of getting bad vibe and maybe feeling angry of the workplace, it is a really good chance to proof onselves too. Do good job and give some extra love to the work and when it is time you can move one to a different place, better contracts and new people(good or bad?) and getting new experiences. The next studio I was in was one of the best ones I have been in and I really loved it. I learned new things, equally important to my first job. So I think it is also about the mindset you choose to see it in that will make a difference. I love animation and that is the most important thing when working somewhere. You have to love your job. Do reseach before trying to go for any job. Not just films, this apply to any type of job.

[@jeandenishaas]

Carina Henriksson Yeah it’s just part of dealing with humans. Thanks for sharing!

[@AmityAnimation]

Rock solid video. I appreciate the honesty, yet the lean towards overall positivity.

[@jeandenishaas]

Kyle Thanks!

[@SourSourSour]

People really make or break it for me. My first job abused my ambition and me not knowing what was going on. After one year I was incredibly discouraged, burnt out, and didn't think I'd survive in broadcast animation. My second contract was way different, I got paid less(smaller studio), but I kept my optimism about me and had a much better time. It was truly like a second home, I knew everybody and was so comfy. I really need/needed to understand that my value isn't in my work. So far I've been doing this for about 4 1/2 years, and as uneasy as I still feel about it , I'm more optimistic than my first 8 months.

[@jeandenishaas]

Marc Thanks for sharing and I’m glad to hear that you’ve found a better place that works better for you!

[@seraby7151]

Veteran animators like him are treated well in the industry because yeah, he's a veteran. the difference is back when he started his career, studios aren't much of an asshole as they are now. Studios treat newbies shit because they now they are easily replaceable nowadays. I guess it's all about finding the middle ground for newer artists. And also I have a feeling that the supply is way bigger than the demand (which can be blamed to schools who wants to make quick buck instead of informing the students about the industry). I still think she went out too fast and tried other studios before going on her own. But I guess she was itching on making her own stuff.

[@jeandenishaas]

Unfortunately not every veteran is being treated well just because he/she is a veteran. I wouldn't call myself a veteran but I have been very lucky and fortunate. The industry has definitely changed though.

[@markgnarz5399]

Not sure what its like today--back in the 90s era studios would claim ownership over everything you produced while under contract--including all personal work/sketchbooks/etc not related to the project. -Yes there are too many schools pumping out students with skills less than needed for the jobs now. Again in the 90s there were only 3 animation schools in North America (Cal Arts/Sheridan/Emily Carr later on in the 90s)...The way the students are taught now is more about profit for the school than getting a student to an employable level. I wonder what it would be like to have studios and schools treat animation more like a trade but the industries have changed too fast due to technology and Schools are slow to evolve.

[@jeandenishaas]

From personal experience as a teacher at Animation Mentor and the Academy of Arts I’m definitely pushing for a higher level so that students are aware of expectations, and generally AM is for sure not just pumping out students for profit, so I wouldn’t generalize like that. Studios still claim ownership over everything nowadays but I heard that at some you can push back and carve out what’s yours and what’s theirs.

[@FlashVedder]

I rather make animation for myself and for clients … I tried to apply many studios and been turned down and insulted by a colleague I tried to ask for help told me my work is shit and that I should delete my whole portfolio … I struggle with a learning disability but I still push doing my animations and have clients appreciate my work … I’m always pushing the envelope to make work better and best quality… there’s no such is bad work Art is a journey … my only advice is to never stop what you love doing no matter shit you get from others

[@jeandenishaas]

That’s not the best colleague holy moly

[@theHoneyandAbsinthe]

Hi, this was such a great response to my video. Thank you for doing such a good job for your students. . . . PS: I haaaate cubicles 😂

[@jeandenishaas]

Hi! I’m so glad to hear that! Thank you for commenting! I honestly applaud your drive and wish you all the best. I have zero intention to be dismissive of or to invalidate your experience. It’s disappointing to read comments insinuating that. I hope your business takes off and that you thrive! Hahaha and I like being able to decorate my cubicle. 😁 I don’t like open floor plans though... 👎🏻

[@methakurapaper3707]

I working in game development (3d artist) I work from home, but I'm officially on the staff of my studio. I have a good salary and social things. I have cool colleagues and I've never been in conflict in the last four years. I don't feel underestimated, nor do I feel the burden of extra responsibility. The studio has different projects and I can choose tasks, so I'm not bored and I develop my skills. Last year I broke my knee and my studio helped me pay for additional rehabilitation. Looks like I live in a parallel world :D

[@jeandenishaas]

Methakura Paper That’s a pretty good situation!

[@momocal9660]

Hi is your studio hiring?

[@OneDude7745]

In all honesty, I wouldn't mind working in a cubicle all day on animations and things. As long as I don't have to deal with bullying and sexual harassment, and as long as I get credited for my work, I'm okay with it.

[@jeandenishaas]

That’s all reasonable!

[@barrettKiwi]

I'm relatively new to the industry, I've worked at MPC for a year and a half and am currently waiting for my next contract to start at a new studio. I worked on some great projects but also worked on some that I really didn't enjoy that much. I treated every project as a learning experience because although I wouldn't have chosen to work on a couple of the films I did work on I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work on them because of what I was able to learn and also because of the people that I was able to form friendships with. This early stage in my career I understand that all the projects that I work on, whether bad or good are all building blocks to make me a better animator. Everyone has a different path and some will take longer than others to get where they want to but having a positive mindset and realising that your current job/studio is more than likely not your last (especially as a junior) goes a long way. I never had any bad experiences with people at the studio, everyone I have met is super friendly and helpful. There were a couple of questionable decisions made by people who were much higher up. At the end of the day the projects you're working on are a clients, what they want goes most of the time.

[@jeandenishaas]

M B Thank you for your insights and well put!

[@jagotato]

Poor girl such a bad experience, but is true, you are two diferent persons, you got lucky...

[@jeandenishaas]

Xavier H Yep, luck, hard work, and being prepared. Everybody has their own path.

[@KZanim]

Hallelujah! Thanks JD. I have been working in VFX for a year now (thanks again! - it took years to get here) and I've already seen all the points made in Janet Chan's video. I have seen people quit and badmouth the company, long hours and overtime, people hired for short contracts and being let go. It can be hard at times because at the end it's all about profit as in any business/industry. We are cogs in the machine and sometimes we don't agree with the directions given but it's not our movie. I'm sure almost everyone would like to have their income from a personal project and I hope some people can achieve that. Most of the things discussed in the video come down to individuals and can happen in every industry where you mix many personalities. I was shocked too with how much I imagined differently because I had a more romantic idea of how the day to day would be. That been said I remembered some animators mentioning that you have to leave your ego at the door and just do the work. Some projects are better than others and for me most people I work with are amazing. I try everyday to find how I can be creative and play within the limitations on each shot and adjust according to feedback. Trying to enjoy what I am doing by just making it as good as it can be. I aim for awesomeness, but sometimes need to settle for "it's not what I'd go for, but it's good!". I believe it's about perspective. At the end of the day it is indeed a cubicle/corporate job. But as far as these go... it's a damn good one! :D

[@jeandenishaas]

KZanim Well said!!

[@maryorario]

I really like your counterpoints! Well presented. I’m 14 years in and I have good days and bad days. Still trying to find that work/life balance.

[@jeandenishaas]

MG Natale Thanks! And congratulations to such a long run!

[@Bakedcakeyyy]

Love this video! I just got into my first animation job about a month ago at a small studio and all the points listed in the article are all so true, but all the counter-points or complimentary points you raised are also true! It can get mundane, it is a 9-5 job, there will be meetings about meetings, connections is about half the job, but all of it is worth it when I look back into where I was 2 years ago just DREAMING about doing what I'm doing now. (It also beats my last job as a fast food crew member)

[@jeandenishaas]

Absolutely! (and thanks!)

[@dannymorales787]

Aye!!! Congrats! Don't worry man, you aren't the only one working at a restaurants. I love cooking at restaurants but Animation is where my dreams at.

[@jeandenishaas]

Danny Morales 👍🏻

[@Bakedcakeyyy]

Danny Morales thanks man! Yeah I totally didn’t mind my previous job as I loved the people I worked with. But I went for my dream job ever since I was 13 and have no regrets at all.

[@jeandenishaas]

Rafael Capricho Good for you!

[@EvelynHernandez]

I like it :] I'm totally with you on this. Work is work and then u have the afternoon to do you. Being able animate for the work that is work, is a dam awesome opportunity that I'm thankful for everyday :]

[@jeandenishaas]

Animation Nooblette Very true!

[@williamjosephdunn5879]

You might take a lot of heat for this video, but keep in mind that there are a LOT of people who (quietly) feel similar. For all it's faults, animation is a good gig and I'm glad I'm not hanging sheet rock or roofing in the dead of winter (I'm not trashing people who do, those are important jobs that are usually underappreciated, but it's not for everyone). I'm 20 + year veteran of the industry and I appreciate this more measured look on the industry. Ultimately, animation is a job and it has all of the ups and downs that any job has. I approach animation as if it's a blue collar job: you have a client and you have to make your client happy. As soon as you take the first check, it's THEIRS not YOURS. If you don't fulfilled or appreciated at the day gig, you should have a side project that does. Trust me, it'll keep you sane.

[@jeandenishaas]

William Dunn My intention is not to diminish her experience or opinions. Like I said, her experiences are hers and valid and I agree with her points. And at the same time I want to still encourage students to think about animation as their career and give them my subjective view of my experiences which happened to be positive. If I’m taking heat for agreeing and trying to be encouraging then so be it, I can’t do anything about that. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@SirWade]

Well said!! :)

[@jeandenishaas]

Sir Wade Neistadt Thanks!

[@ahrymalyuk]

Thank you for your points! I've been working multiple jobs and had downs and ups along the way. You've summarised it very well. You always have to remember that you are dealing with people and they all are very very different.

[@jeandenishaas]

Thank you! And yes, there are so many different factors to consider that there can’t be a blanket statement or judgment.

[@nathanthomas3844]

Thanks Jean-Denis! Great to have a bit of the flip side. very balanced and realistic look at our industry :)

[@jeandenishaas]

Nathan Thomas Thanks!

[@bobbypontillas3141]

Well said JD! I do respect that Janet was able to speak her mind honestly. I certainly agree, I’ve have had those trying moments but it is a spectrum. I wonder if she would’ve given it a shot to try a different show or even a different studio if that would’ve given her a more holistic view of the industry. But I can relate to you where yes there are negative times , but by and large my experiences have been positive. If you put that positive energy out it will return in your career

[@jeandenishaas]

Bobby Pontillas I hope she has more positive experiences moving forward. It really can be a lot of fun but it all depends on your situation.

[@KimAllenAnima-Saurus]

14 year veteran,. This is a brilliant discussion because the attitude that you take to your work adds to your perspective of this industry. I've never had a 'perminant ' job in this industry, but I also haven't had a lot of time between contracts. I've done the teaching thing for while and definatly talked about the industry. Schools are wanting your money and the govenment support if they get it. So there are a lot of great tutors that can teach the skills but not spend time on the environment. This is a huge industry, with so many different shades. I did a lot of other work outside the industry before I started and have totally enjoyed my career and love sharing to possibilities that are available. Great video, Jean, thanks for sharing.

[@jeandenishaas]

Kim Allen Thank you for your insights! And thanks for the kind words!

[@donnewmancanada]

I am not part of the animation industry although I've started dabbling in my own time for fun. I've come to see a lot of parallels to my own career in software development. Admittedly, I don't yet know who you are, your response has motivated me to change that. When I stumbled into the Janet topic, it became clear that most people were quickly divided, as with most controversial topics. I love how you acknowledged that her experience and perspective were valid, but that doesn't mean they will be valid for everyone. I believe that nobody has the right to say that what another person feels is wrong and you have done a great job in showing empathy and understanding for her situation while sharing insight into your own experiences that have been vastly different.

[@jeandenishaas]

That’s very kind of you to say, thank you!

[@FrancisChenSF]

Having watched both videos, I believe artistically, it comes down to what you weigh more as important from a professional or personal level. For some people, working at a studio makes complete sense due to the structure, lifestyle, recognition, and also ability to do larger scale projects. For other people, being independent and focusing on executing on their creative vision is so important that they would rather do it now rather than wait for a long time to make it happen. Completely agree it’s important to find where you stand in the spectrum and find the careers, jobs, or lifestyles to make it work.

[@jeandenishaas]

Absolutely!

[@SuperVayn]

You are amazing!! You juust gave me a fantastic perspective on managing exectations without diminishing my career goals! Thank you.

[@jeandenishaas]

Swahili Factory Great to hear! That was the hope!

[@eddieandersson5570]

Thx for another awesome video my friend. Jane's video really got me thinking. So I think more of your colleagues in the industry that has an online appearance should do one of these respons videos. Your videos always cheer me up though, you're a role model for me for sure.

[@jeandenishaas]

Eddie Andersson Ooh you’re too kind! 😊

[@hugolouiset2266]

it's impotant to have both perspectives ! great video, the thing you said about the pros and cons about working at home is very true. Also maybe as an animator its easier to have fun and having less stress compared so a storyboard artist, in my opinion at least. sorry for bad english, you got a new sub

[@jeandenishaas]

Hugo Louiset Absolutely! TV has a crazy schedule! I can’t even imagine the stress! Thanks for the sub!

[@enderperez-lopezanimations4103]

Thank you J-D for this video, I saw the one that you are referring to yesterday and I was kind of ignoring it because we have all that in every industry or professions more or less. In my accounting experience so far, I have all of that, toxic or non toxic places etc, you need to know How to handle it

[@jeandenishaas]

Ender Perez-Lopez Animations Yeah, lots of places will have pros and cons. It’s important though to know what you’re getting yourself into so you are able to prepare yourself so that you can handle it. It’s not for everybody.

[@ada002]

Can not be more agree. !!! This is a great work and we are lucky to belong to the industry. Thanks for sharing your point !!!

[@jeandenishaas]

Thank YOU for watching!

[@Aaron_miraz]

Thanks for giving your point of view about this and for the advices JD.

[@jeandenishaas]

Aarón SW You’re very welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@sebastiancastro8145]

Artist: Quits animation industry in disgust Animation Industry: Attacks her in response, thus proving her point. Yeah, so basically, she's actually right about what she's saying and all you are doing is making her look like she was actually right to quit.

[@jeandenishaas]

Who’s attacking her? And yes I’m saying she was right to quit based on her situation.

[@sebastiancastro8145]

@@jeandenishaas I know that the word: “Attacked” is a strong word to use, I guess you could say, she was attacked politely and professionally. Animation Industry needs Artists. Students go to college to learn to be animator BUT the things she mentioned were not mentioned because the college needs money. I know when you are hired as a artist, you are hired to make work that is in the design of what your employer wants. Totally understandable. I think there was a study where it shows people don't quit jobs, they quit bosses. "Not allowed to draw angry eyebrows to not make kids angry" is a stupid artistic policy I have ever heard. That is not understandable. Imagine if you had this mentality applied to everything. What do they think children are? Morons impressionable to the point anything they see induces Pavlovian conditioning? Seriously? How can Artist be an Artist with that type of restriction? There needs to be better communication on the boss side.

[@jeandenishaas]

Sebastian Castro I think it’s a careful balance for artists. If you work for someone else or with someone you will have to compromise and the bigger the company the bigger the potential that notes are based on market testing and financial reasons than artistic freedom. And if you work for yourself you’re free of all of that but you will have to carry more weight (pay for your own benefits, company provided hardware, and at big companies paid food for overtime, free food in ergo rooms, gym, paid vacation, etc.). I think either path is valid for different people. Also really depends on the people you work with. It worked for her at Dreamworks but didn’t at Disney. And like I said there’s a spectrum. It’s important that students are aware of the pitfalls and worst case scenarios. And that some students can strive and do well as well in a big studio environment. Really depends what’s best for you. I don’t think you should paint the whole industry as disgusting just like you shouldn’t paint the whole industry as a love fest. There’s a spectrum. That’s all I was trying to communicate

[@fahruddeen]

thank you for this! im more excited to get into the industry now!

[@jeandenishaas]

Fahruddin Abdullah Great!

[@robertgoodnight]

My wife and I watched the young ladies video; I watched both yours and hers. I am still trying to get into the animation industry. But being older; I see a lot of what she had to say come out of the mouths of the younger Airmen I worked with over my first 20 year career in the military. Many; have felt the same and even had experiences that made them question their career path. Like you; I had some ups and downs; things weren’t always rainbows; but at the end of the day; I had a good time, so I stayed in the military for 20 years. Now I am looking to start a new career; and don’t look at things with the wide eyes of a young adult learning their way through the world. I am not dismissing what she says, because her perspective on the industry is based on her perception of things that happened. But I also remember when I was in my early 20’s and get the same way; but today I feel differently about what I remember.

[@jeandenishaas]

Robert Goodnight Yep!

[@robertgoodnight]

mimi mimi I honestly am not a Disney animator, nor do I ever expect to be. My dream gig is ILM, ILM xLab, blizzard, WETA, or something like that. But what I will say through education and research, it’s possible to get there the long way round. If Disney is the dream, you have to network, work your way across from a big studio to another or get into the Disney family, to go from one studio to another. I had a mentor who went to blue sky, then to Pixar. Had another who started at Disney in 2D and went to dreamworks to ILM. There are people who get where they want to be, whether any sort of pedigree is an answer, I don’t know. One of my classmates doesn’t have pedigree, worked at third floor for a bit, just got picked up at Disney as a temp contractor, but he has some really great shots that work in the Disney style of storytelling.

[@robertgoodnight]

mimi mimi I would also say the director doesn’t do the hiring. maybe that’s the directors perspective on how he/ she remembers it. But HR, head of character animation, leads and supervisors have more of a say in hiring than the director. The director is really going to say whether your on his team or not, but that’s going to be based on the shots you put up.

[@robertgoodnight]

mimi mimi another perspective reading your reply is the international part. Starting out; companies are not likely to sponsor visas for entry level. You have to build up your resume and shots before they are willing to sponsor visas... But maybe JD has more perspective on that? Not sure what he went through when he started so many years ago.

[@jeandenishaas]

mimi mimi Totally agree. I recommend to all students (especially those who need a visa) to take a job when you get an offer. Very tricky to hold on and wait for one company (again especially as a foreigner and work visa issues), you can learn from many places, gain experience and make connections. Ultimately of course you do what you have to do. I applied at around 60 places when I graduated (two job offers after graduation didn’t work out because I was stupid and applied for the OPT too late), nothing happened. Kept working on my reel. Went back to school for one more class, redid my reel and sent it out again to all the same places. Interviews at a few places happened pretty much at the same time and I was able to get an internship at ILM after passing on Sony in LA (Sony didn’t guarantee H1B work visa but ILM did, to answer the visa question). Started in Jan 2004 after graduating in May 2003. So my perspective is very singular given that I stayed at ILM ever since. I ask all of my students what their dream company is and the vast majority cite the top companies. My answer is always that it’s great to have that dream and that it can be your fuel to be driven but to be realistic and understand that the chances are very small that they’ll make it. At least right away. Some get in right away and some only after a long time, if at all. They shouldn’t discount or worse dismiss other companies. For some people smaller companies are much more fulfilling. Big companies are not for everybody.

[@AngryPeopleStudios]

I feel that this video is so much more nuanced than the one from Honey & Absinthe. To me personally this seems a lot less naive and with a broader perspective while still critical

[@jeandenishaas]

August ´Poul´ Niclasen Well I guess I’m also older with more experience (to some degree). You can’t fault her for having views based on her experience and the information she was given. But thanks!

[@dreamcaster964]

Don't you mean more biased towards your preferred side?

[@jeandenishaas]

DreamCaster I guess. We see what we see, it’s tiring to point fingers.

[@latrolettteeeeeee]

OH SHUT UP.

[@jeandenishaas]

Rude

[@RaymondMcCarthyBergeron]

Thanks for your insight. It was hard for me to get through the first three minutes of her video (only watched the vid, didn't read the article). Glad you helped bring up some concise views too. Our younger selves probably look at our beloved examples of what got us into the industry, and how fun it appears to work in said industry via the behind-the-scenes marketing videos. That video is a 3min cutdown and edited happy moment after the production. It's also 3 minutes out of 3 years+ creating... And those folks are probably one of hundreds. I guess the point is that, much like you said, we only see the finished product while behind the curtain there's a lot of dedicated work, and pain points at times, that result in a great show piece.

[@jeandenishaas]

Raymond McCarthy Bergeron You’re welcome! Thank YOU for watching!

[@RaymondMcCarthyBergeron]

@@jeandenishaas also, love your channel so far... after seeing this one posted by a friend, I started looking at your other stuff. Great contributions, I'm sure your students are greatly benefiting from your time!

[@jeandenishaas]

Raymond McCarthy Bergeron Thanks a lot for saying that!

[@jeandenishaas]

If you find this helpful I have animation workshops for more help! Sign up! spungellaonline.blogspot.com/p/faq.html It's not all chimps and scooters! Some places are great, some are horrible! What has been your experience so far?

[@hadji087]

pretty spot on my guy. its a day job. sometimes its fun. sometimes i sucks. wasn't for her. that's fine.

[@jeandenishaas]

Zachary Bojangles Yep

[@London088]

Wow JD this hit home to me! I will have to send you a message!

[@jeandenishaas]

London Ready!

[@sarahschulz7987]

Such a great video! (: I love how positive you are - reflected, yet positive. Right now I'm working as a Cleanup Artist for Cartoon Saloon in Kilkenny, Ireland, and I can only sing the highest praises of them. Technically it's my second job, but I've been very fortunate with it, especially since I haven't graduated yet. (I have two more years of school to go). Everyone is kind and passionate about the project, I feel cared for, my work is appreciated, no overtime, and the result is gorgeous and something to be proud of. I appreciate that you stress "it depends on the place". Of course Janet's video spoke of her experiences at Disney and probably wasn't meant to generalize, but I felt like it was a description of the American animation industry more than anything. Reason why I love European animation so much! Nobody seems to be aware that there's fantastic films made in other parts of the world and they often fall off the radar undeservedly, but nothing I've experienced so far has put me off from wanting to pursue that career. Obviously, I've only had so many experiences yet, but as you say, there's good places, there's bad places, and I'm prepared for both. In my opinion it's nice that the studios are smaller and the teams very international, everything is very personal. Some of the differences are the fact that there's hardly any permanent positions and you mostly move from contract to contract (which holds its own beauty, the EU allows you to move and work where-ever you want within its confines) - and of course the fact that European productions generally have smaller budgets. You'll have to make sure you're not underpaid, but that's a very common problem across the entire industry... sadly. It's very much a pro/con thing. Personally, I'm quite happy. I live more than comfortably (of course I don't have an LA apartment to pay for) and work is something I thoroughly enjoy, so I wouldn't change that for anything in the world. It seems to be a life goal for many, but I was never interested in working for any of the big name brands, for the exact reasons mentioned in Janet's video. By the way, I'm from Germany, which - unlike its French neighbour - doesn't have much of an animation industry itself. (just some sort of sad excuse) That's disappointing, but there's so many opportunities in the surrounding countries that I'm actually very positive about the future. (And I don't say that lightly.) Netflix' recent involvement in the industry seems exciting as well. Sorry for the ramble, but yes, I absolutely agree with what you said! I thought my experiences from the other side of the world might be of some interest, even if I'm not an industry veteran :D

[@BennieWoodell]

Yeah, I'd say a lot of her points are absolutely valid, but I see no difference in any other job I've worked at that wasn't related to the entertainment industry either. So unless you work for yourself, you're probably going to experience most of this anyways. I will say though to it being a corporate job, that was the biggest stake through the heart for me, only it was in filmmaking as that's where I started. I remember being on set during college helping out a friend and someone mentioned that being below the line crew is basically just blue collar factory work that seems cool to outsiders and that stuck. After that I made my own films and was in my own bubble for like a decade, but then like five years ago I was a post PA on a network show and I saw that it really was like a 9-5 day job type thing and not this team of folks wanting to create art like I had envisioned, I was actually working in an office setting. I went home and had a minor breakdown that first night. I kept up with it the rest of the six weeks they hired me on for and I ultimately enjoyed my time there and the people I worked with, but it really wasn't something I wanted to continually do with my time. I'm still working in film, but more for myself on my own projects and I actually started teaching myself 3D animation shortly after the network job because I wanted to allow myself the opportunity to continually create films without having to worry about coming up with the astronomical budgets or beg people for money and then have to explain my vision or compromise, and now I couldn't be happier. I don't think I'd ever work in an animation studio, but I love watching videos like this as I'm always curious if the pitfalls are what I experienced on the film side. So great video, thank you for making it.

[@jeandenishaas]

Thanks for your comment! Interesting experience!

[@thebrokentangent]

Great points made, JD! I've been with my studio for 16 years now and have seen a lot. And from what I've seen it's like you describe (at least in the field of Video Games). Pro and Cons to it all. Networking is good but it'll only get you so far. In the end, you need to be able to do the work you're being employed for.

[@jeandenishaas]

The Broken Tangent 16 years!! Twinsies! Congratulations!!!

[@thebrokentangent]

@@jeandenishaas Thank you very much, Good Sir! I consider myself very lucky to be able to stay at one place for so long in this Industry. And the same to you!!

[@jeandenishaas]

The Broken Tangent 😁

[@daddychill7863]

The Broken Tangent how about the salaries 😁?

[@BrentNoll]

This is the Correct take (tm) on working in animation

[@jeandenishaas]

Brent Noll Well each take is through a subjective lens made of all kinds of experiences.

[@BrentNoll]

@@jeandenishaas yes but I like yours the most. and this video is what i would want people coming into animation to watch

[@BrentNoll]

also how soon till you get your own cartoon brew article?

[@BrentNoll]

OH GOD IT HAS ALL READY HAPPENED

[@jeandenishaas]

Brent Noll Why thank you sir!

[@Xenooni]

10 years in the industry, never had a cubicle lol edit: thanks for sharing your viewpoint!

[@jeandenishaas]

Kor Jay Hahaha!

[@popthiccle1158]

short answer: pretty much the same as every other industry

[@jeandenishaas]

Yep!

[@age3rcm]

i believe that any job is not fun and parties, jobs are responsabilities you are being paid to be responsible, not to have fun. your boss is your god

[@jeandenishaas]

Sounds like a drab job.

[@Video-xo6sk]

a very objective comment, all my compliments

[@jeandenishaas]

Video Thanks!

[@jweinrub]

Forgive me if this confuses you. I graduated from a college where I majored in animation and let me say this, I have yet to get my foot into the door. It's mainly my social skills that plays into effect and mostly my skills in general. Part of it was also the confusion cause many companies may have generalists who do more than one task such as being a modeler, rigger, and a animator. There was a lot of things that I didn't understand cause I met those who did everything and I would get told to choose one skill to apply for. I gave up the career mainly cause I didn't understand how the smaller industries worked and not the big ones. I want to get back into the game one day, I'm 41, and see if I can try it again, but if not, I always have KZbin and I also have a goal of sending a short that I want to work on into a film festival. Personally, if you asked me right now, what would I like to do, I would say model buildings, vehicles, and animate characters. As I gotten older and wiser, I started to realize what I wanted to do. Even if I don't get there, I'm still going to enjoy the creativity that animation has to offer.

[@jweinrub]

I will say this though, I have met those who are professors of animation and let me say some of them have huge egos. It was not fun being around them, especially seeing them online such as Facebook,

[@jeandenishaas]

@@jweinrub That sucks, sorry that you had teachers like that.

[@jweinrub]

@@jeandenishaas Technically, it was online that I experienced their behavior. I had a teacher who was iffy in his ways, but that is a different story. It was a fun ride, but man, I would never have him as a teacher again. If you catch my drift.

[@jeandenishaas]

@@jweinrub Yikes!

[@The_Twilight_Cuts]

This video is so great! I watched her video before watching yours and the 9-5 hours wouldn’t ever bother me. What I’m still on the fence about is the salary and taking hiatus jobs. Do you think you can make a video about salary and hiatus jobs for concept artists or animators in tv and feature films?

[@jeandenishaas]

I don’t have enough info (except my own) about salaries. Would be interesting to research that more deeply. Can’t really speak about tv either since I haven’t worked in that industry. Sorry!

[@The_Twilight_Cuts]

Jean-Denis Haas ahh okay. well thank you for responding. 🙏

[@jeandenishaas]

raisa choudhury Sure thing! Sorry, I wish I had more info for you!

[@laurad.m6807]

I really love story-telling thru visuals ,I love making art etc ...I dont know if I wanna especifically be an animator , Im very lost because this was something I thought I always wanted . Im in an animation school 1st year, but i am questioning myself how much burnout a professional in my area take , I have lupus and my endurance sometimes is very bad , I looooove the creative part of the industry and cinematography but im scared that my body wont take this kind of job

[@jeandenishaas]

Laura d.m That’s tough! I hope it’s going to work out for you!

[@nickgibbons]

Thank you for so eloquently addressing her issues, I would not have been so diplomatic about it, but I'm glad you were. Her post got under my skin a lot and I used quite colorful language when talking to my fellow team mates at work about it. I'm a bit reactionary by nature, but I also know that about myself so I usually take a moment to cool off and try to look at the issue that has upset me with an open mind. This industry is not for everyone, it is hard work, long hours, nothing is guaranteed, and it usually doesn't scratch your particular creative itch. But at the end of the day it is a job, like any other job, and hopefully if a person loves to draw and create, they enjoy it on some level. Life's tough, and getting to the point you think you want to be at in your career takes time. If you talk to someone you think is at the place they want to be career wise, 9 times out of 10 they will say they aren't. It's all perspective. Your happiness and your fulfillment in ANYTHING you do is completely up to you. You can not do a job, date a person, or raise a child, expecting that that "thing" will give you what you need to have a fulfilling existence, you have to create that for yourself. This comment is way longer than I hoped it was going to be, thanks for your thoughts, I wish I had had a teacher with such a positive and great outlook and work experience as you seem to have when I was younger. If you are a student of Haas, listen to him, pay attention and take what he says to heart.

[@jeandenishaas]

radioactivecrotch Thanks for the kind words!

[@luciomennillo]

I love your honesty, and I think people should educate themselves before getting into this industry. It's not an easy industry as it's very competitive, you always have to keep learning and pushing yourself. But it's very rewarding to the people who persevere. Also If you have a family that also comes into play, do you want to work in the VFX industry where its more contract work or games where it's more steady. Lots to think about :)

[@jeandenishaas]

Lucio Mennillo Yeah having a family definitely changes your situation, options, flexibility, etc. Thanks for watching!

[@activemotionpictures]

Thank you for posting a reply on this. Great video.

[@jeandenishaas]

Activemotionpictures Thank you very much!

[@bohdan_lvov]

Jeez, I can only be jealous of that strict "9 to 5" schedule 😅

[@jeandenishaas]

Bohdan Lvov 😉

[@chema707]

As someone who works on indie games from home, can say it's 100% true what you said about the burnout.

[@jeandenishaas]

Manuel Otheo Sorry to hear that!

[@zenobunny]

Hey. I just wanted to comment on her this topic, with my own experience. I'm not in the animation industry, as I just graduated from non-art college last December with a BA in Studio Arts and minored in Animation. As someone who wants to get into that industry and knows what its like, I feel like she threw away that opportunity on a professional stance and will probably make it harder for people like us who're trying to get into that industry... IDK, I'm glad she told the truth (even though we've known what its like for years and that's with any/all industries-- heck. look at the video game industry for example)...

[@jeandenishaas]

Zeno Bunny How will it be harder?

[@zenobunny]

​@@jeandenishaas 'Cause I feel that companies are going to clamp down on people (future employees, current ones...etc.) making videos about them in a negative light. For a wild example, a company like Disney could make a contract where people can't discuss their opinions/views...etc that showers a negative light on their companies reputation and if they were to break that rule, Disney could fire that person and/or blacklist them... (I know that's a huge, HUGE, stretch)

[@jeandenishaas]

Zeno Bunny Ah got it. Maybe!

[@seraby7151]

@@zenobunny that goes for all companies. She is able to tell it as it is because she already resigned and have no plans on applying to a similar studio/company.

[@rajeshpk95]

Good point ..! Well explained .!

[@jeandenishaas]

Rajesh PK Thanks!

[@KingKing-eb1dt]

This is why I like your blogs cuz you are so positive all the time!! Thats a great trait as an artist, if you don't have that is really hard to be in the industry. But for her it feels like she wanted to bash Disney so she can promote her channel, which i don't really feel like its right... also saying executives don't know what they are doing i think is pretty wrong, they just have a different perspective of what is needed. Most of you that work at a studio only understand you job as it is, like animator only will every look at a shot and their sequence but a director looks at the film as a whole and the executives look at the market and the audiences which includes Ratings (hence the comment about no angry eyebrows.) so by understanding this you will have a better picture of what they are coming from. Here is an example for you, my first cartoon i work after grad film school 20 years ago there was a comment about my action shots for a fighting scene "can not have contact punches in the scenes and no angry faces" my first though to my director was that it was stupid comments. but now have my own studio i understand that it probably due to some reason why they would put that in, could be simple as legal reasons or try to get the G rating. As an artist i didn't care about it i just though they were dumb but back then i just didn't understand or i didn't want to understand. So i would say don't go all mad about executives right away try to understand them first it will make you life much easier, then just get salty about some comments.

[@jeandenishaas]

King King Thanks! And yes, everybody looks at it from their own perspective and the comments come from that POV. They can work for you or not. Even if it is a channel promotion (and her video title will bring in clicks for sure) it’s all her choice and she’s in control now, which is what she preferred, so good for her to go after her goals!

[@dreamcaster964]

If that is the only thing you got out of that video then you fanboys must be even more braindead than I feared.

[@jeandenishaas]

DreamCaster It’s not but you do you. Why people need to be so negative is tiring.

[@kerraboo1030]

DreamCaster so what insight do you have to offer other calling people brain dead. As far as I can tell you have offer nothing and just making petty remarks isn’t gonna help your case. And as far as I can tell both jean and King king has offer their experiences in the industry and have their own opinions. But you got nothing to offer so I have to help these guys out and say get out of here before you embarrass yourself further.

[@mohammedatef733]

I really enjoy watching your videos!! Thank you!!

[@jeandenishaas]

Mohammad Atef Thank YOU for watching!

[@skreek.o7]

nice hyper light shirt

[@jeandenishaas]

😁

[@JasminElal]

thank you!

[@jeandenishaas]

Jasmin CG Sure thing!

[@teknopaint]

I've struggled trying to get into the industry. I went to school for Video Game Art & Animation and dreamed of working in Video Games & Animation. Unfortunately I'm 31 for 10 years now haven't been able to get a job. I do work and make good money though. I work in sales over the phone and make good money working only 35 hours a week and sometimes less. Still though. I always have that nagging in my mind that "Grass is greener." I think the issue is that in my mind, Disney Jobs = Disney Movies. Meaning happy ending, perfect life, etc etc.

[@jeandenishaas]

JacobDunnLife I’m sorry to hear about your struggles. 🙁 Disney Jobs definitely doesn’t mean happy ending and perfect life. I think the grass is greener mindset is found in many people. I remember once taking to someone from Dreamworks, I was telling how I would also like to work at a feature animation company and not just VFX and to that he responded that he wanted to work in VFX too instead of feature. It’s natural to be interested by other things and a drive as a creative person might be that you’re never really satisfied?

[@teknopaint]

@@jeandenishaas I get this. But unfortunately it has been a very hard lesson for me to learn which has led me to becoming an alcoholic and numbing myself to my failure by playing video games & drinking. Being $180k in debt for art school, which is no longer even around because of fraud, also adds to my frustration. On the outside looking in I have everything a "dream" would include. Wonderful healthy wife, son, another on the way, brand new car, house, etc. But no matter how much money I make or what I accomplish it always will be there nagging "Get an art job / You failed as an artist / You're not good enough."

[@jeandenishaas]

JacobDunnLife That’s brutal, I’m so sorry.

[@teknopaint]

@@jeandenishaas Thanks! I'm working on getting better in all areas of my life. Your video has helped, as well as, Honey and Absinthe's video to see reality and perspective.

[@jeandenishaas]

JacobDunnLife That’s a positive! Good luck with everything!

[@spicydoodlesoup]

I don't know if i should listen to someone who doesn't pop in and out in different locations when they jump cut edit throughout their vlog... nor pop clip art and spell out words they say ... I'm being sarcastic. Very nice and informative video.

[@jeandenishaas]

Damon Wong Each delivery style is different, at least she was able to be creative putting her clip together.

[@jaymhlurbaloyi7813]

Would you guys say there is a demand for animators though In the sense that as an animator I won't have to be competition for a job with someone else

[@jeandenishaas]

Not sure what you mean exactly. I don’t see how there is a job without competition?

[@jaymhlurbaloyi7813]

@@jeandenishaas let me rephrase that. Are there more animators than there are animation jobs . Or is the other way around.

[@jeandenishaas]

@@jaymhlurbaloyi7813 Ah! Good question! It feels like there are more animators than jobs around but at the same time those jobs are for animators of a certain quality and skill set. And high caliber animators are still hard to find. I think nowadays you have a lot more “good animators” but it’s still rare to find “excellent animators”. (talking 3D) BUT. I don’t think there have ever been as many animation projects going right now, so there are still a lot of opportunities out there.

[@jaymhlurbaloyi7813]

@@jeandenishaas thanks , Ive been wanting to hear what a professional animator has to say about this Thank you.

[@jeandenishaas]

@@jaymhlurbaloyi7813 You’re welcome!

[@krsnathakker8536]

HYPER LI8GHT DRIFTER

[@jeandenishaas]

Krsna Thakker 😁

[@gabivallu8436]

exactly!

[@jeandenishaas]

gabi vallu 👍🏻

[@crispychknwings9829]

As a person who would like to make my own animated show or series where do I even begin?

[@jeandenishaas]

That’s a good question. Do you want to be the show runner? Or do everything from start to finish?

[@crispychknwings9829]

@@jeandenishaas show runner sounds interesting as long as there are writers that can help with story ?

[@jeandenishaas]

Crispy Chknwings They are for sure there for story but to be honest I have no experience regarding TV.

[@Som3D]

Idk for sure but I think it's good to start with short films before huge projects like shows and movies I also think there are different departments in animation studios so if your working at a studio ask people who write for that studio on how to start I think it's mostly recommended you start with short films it shows how skilled you can be with a story. I have seen people who done amazing shorts at Pixar then made a huge film like the writer/director of Pixar new film TURNING RED I heard somewhere she wrote Pixar short BAO and it's great to see her do her first movie

[@PavisGladius]

That must have been her first job and got a slap of reality cus u encounter clicks and such everywhere u work at .

[@jeandenishaas]

It was her second job and her first job experience was a lot better according, to her podcast video.

[@user-ff5so3mx1n]

So in conclusion: yesn't

[@jeandenishaas]

🤷🏻‍♂️

[@user-ff5so3mx1n]

@@jeandenishaas haha, it's ok i still learned a lot from it. i appreciate it when people are able to acknowledge opinions and experiences different from their own, looking at different angles give a more accurate look into how chaotic things can be, thank you !

[@jeandenishaas]

@@user-ff5so3mx1n 😁

[@christopherortiz7202]

Do I spy a Hyper Light Drifter t-shirt?

[@jeandenishaas]

Christopher Ortiz Yes you do!

[@christopherortiz7202]

Jean-Denis Haas Nice!!! Great video, I’m really happy to hear these different perspectives on the industry, and I really appreciate that you and Janet had a civil dialogue. Thank you for sharing!

[@jeandenishaas]

Christopher Ortiz Thanks! And I’m not disagreeing with her at all, and a civil discussion should be the norm. 🤔👍🏻

[@christopherortiz7202]

@@jeandenishaas Totally! I just mean different perspectives in the way that you are communicating that your experience in the industry is different than hers, and neither of your experiences invalidates the other. I just want to clarify my previous comment, sorry for any confusion!

[@jeandenishaas]

Christopher Ortiz All good all good! 😁

[@calvinraldajo8565]

graphic design vs animation.

[@jeandenishaas]

Same?

[@calvinraldajo8565]

@@jeandenishaas whats the pros and cons of animations and graphic design. trying to pick one

[@jeandenishaas]

@@calvinraldajo8565 I don’t know graphic design so I don’t know

[@laiksik]

I tend to share your views about the industry more than hers, so I'm biased. Everything she said CAN be true, but I can't take her seriously. Your outlook on life will determine how much the 'bad' parts will affect you( and she admits to that, so I commend her.) Soooo many people in the industry are able to deal with the bad because they truly enjoy the good. It's the healthier option, but I feel like humility is really leaving this society, especially with younger people. It's ok for her to be ambitious, but expecting results after only 4 years? Not all of us can be that lucky...and to being disappointed by that fact is...unfortunate. That, plus the fact that her video seemed to really just be an Ad for her new business. I didn't like her video.

[@jeandenishaas]

laiksik That is true too, patience is important too. But 4 horrible years (subjectively but still valid and happening to that specific person) will feel a lot longer than 4 awesome years. Everybody has a breaking point and when you need a change you need to change.

[@OneDude7745]

Because you are a white guy who hasn't had dealt with BS.

[@jeandenishaas]

Fortnite Freebies Less BS but true.

[@seraby7151]

Haha yep. Animation is still a male dominated workforce and I've seen other women leave the industry for good not because of crap pay or office politics, but because of sexual harrassments. I guess it goes for all types of industry, except animation pay is crap compared to other types of job.

[@jeandenishaas]

seraby That’s so horrible!

[@zed5449]

I think women generally don't like working with each other , they get jealous and act like they're still in highschool. Men on the other hand are more confrontational so depends on the guys you work with, you'll either have a great time or really a bad time hahah but in a professional environment most guys tend to be cool.

[@jeandenishaas]

Adam Smith I don’t know, that’s quite the generalization. 🧐

[@nickyH76]

Wow...

[@emmahogg7366]

Women in animation industry claim to be feminists but they’re actually “mean girls” The high school clique mentality never leaves them

[@TheGoblinoid]

Mansplaining: The video.

[@jeandenishaas]

Here we go...

[@TheGoblinoid]

@@jeandenishaas Not helping, edgelord.

[@jeandenishaas]

goblinoid If your takeaway is that I’m an edge lord and mansplaining then you see what you want to see.

[@emmahogg7366]

Should he cut his dick off and inject estrogen and re record this video? And did you just use “mansplaining” and “edgelord” in 2020 unironically?