Once Upon a Dream
“We allow no geniuses around our studio” (Walt Disney) the Disney Company has grown, becoming a huge animation/ Motion Pictures Company as well as a theme park owner. It is now a multi-billion dollar company and owns five resorts, eleven theme parks, two water parks, thirty-nine hotels, eight motion picture studios, six record labels, eleven cable television networks and one terrestrial television network. In 2007 the company has an annul revenue of over $35 billion dollars.
Animation today is far different than what Walt Disney started. After a few financial falls in the animation in the 2000s, the animation studio in Paris and Orlando were closed down and the animation studio in Burbank was converted into a computer animation studio. In 2004 Disney announced that they were making their last “traditional animation” Home on the Range. In 2009 Disney brought back “traditional animation” in Disney’s Princess and the Frog.
“Animation can explain whatever the mind of a man can conceive. This facility makes it the most versatile and explicit means of communication.” As of March 2008, Disney employed 137,000 and has continued in growing, but not in “traditional animation.” Disney has made drastic changes and switched to digital animation. In 2000 Disney had to lay off 600 employees because the times changed and the movies weren’t seeing profit.
“You can design and create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make that dream a reality.” (Walt Disney)
At Walt Disney Animation Studio they make sure their employees are up to date and constantly learning a wide variety of classes, from costume drawing instruction by their own artists, to seminars on film making techniques, to technological demonstrations from in-house-experts.
The career in animation I am looking at is called Visual Development Artists. It has many jobs to do, for instance it may include: Character design and/or Environment Design for animated films, short and special projects. Visual Development artists will experiment with diverse elements of film presentation to manipulate dramatic story moments, plot thrusts, moods, character conflict and place-time motifs to capture emotional connection to the story’s theme. A rich imagination sense of drawing and design, strong color sense, and mastery of human and animal anatomy architecture the ability to work in different mediums and versatility to conceptualize visually in variety of techniques are required. Children’s book illustration, fine art and/or illustration skills are a plus.
“People still think of me being a cartoonist, but the only time I lift a pen or pencil for these days is to sign a contract, a check, or an autograph.” (Walt Disney)
The average animator makes around $75K including benefits and a family set of annual passes and work parties in the park.
What should I study to get a job at Walt Disney Animation Studios? What school should I attend?
Walt Disney Animation Studio Artists and Technicians are recommended in having a variety of backgrounds that emphasize in creativity. They have to have great attention to detail, a keen sense of observation and an understanding of their strengths and passions. When looking for the right school pay close attention to schools with good relations with animations and/or film companies and provide programs that include some of the following: Life drawings, Quick studies, Head hands and feet drawing, Anatomy, Clothed-figure studies, animal drawings, Quick sketches of urban surrounds and landscapes, sequential drawings-drawings that tells a story in consecutive sequences, Animation Skills.
Walt Disney Animation Studio Artists and Technicians are recommended in having a variety of backgrounds that emphasize in creativity. They have to have great attention to detail, a keen sense of observation and an understanding of their strengths and passions. When looking for the right school pay close attention to schools with good relations with animations and/or film companies and provide programs that include some of the following: Life drawings, Quick studies, Head hands and feet drawing, Anatomy, Clothed-figure studies, animal drawings, Quick sketches of urban surrounds and landscapes, sequential drawings-drawings that tells a story in consecutive sequences, Animation Skills.
What’s the Difference between an internship and Disney’s Associate Program?
There is no difference; Disney refers to their interns as Associates.
This program has many different programs. There is the Talent Development Program, which is for recent graduates of undergraduate or graduate programs for a three to six month paid position at Walt Disney Animation Studios. The program is under the guidance of a Disney mentor.
The other program is the Art and Production, it’s a ten week program created for students who will be returning to school in the fall. The program brings a group of multi-disciplined students together for a once-in-a-lifetime-before-graduation experience into art and animation. It is under the guidance of a Disney mentor and the associates will work closely with the Academy at Disney Animation to submerge them in the art of storytelling and moviemaking.
There is no difference; Disney refers to their interns as Associates.
This program has many different programs. There is the Talent Development Program, which is for recent graduates of undergraduate or graduate programs for a three to six month paid position at Walt Disney Animation Studios. The program is under the guidance of a Disney mentor.
The other program is the Art and Production, it’s a ten week program created for students who will be returning to school in the fall. The program brings a group of multi-disciplined students together for a once-in-a-lifetime-before-graduation experience into art and animation. It is under the guidance of a Disney mentor and the associates will work closely with the Academy at Disney Animation to submerge them in the art of storytelling and moviemaking.
Can I apply for the Associate Program if I am in High school?
No, the Disney Program is only available for college students.
No, the Disney Program is only available for college students.
When is the submission period?
Talent Development Program: (We have two submissions due dates) September Start Date: Submissions are due April 20 February Start Date: Submissions are due October 20 Art & Production Associate Program:June Start Date: Submissions are due March 20
Talent Development Program: (We have two submissions due dates) September Start Date: Submissions are due April 20 February Start Date: Submissions are due October 20 Art & Production Associate Program:June Start Date: Submissions are due March 20
How do I apply for the Student Program?
Fill out our online application to create a profile. Make sure to apply under Open Positions for “Associate Program” or “Talent Development Program”
Fill out our online application to create a profile. Make sure to apply under Open Positions for “Associate Program” or “Talent Development Program”
Will I be able to receive feedback on my portfolio and/or reel?
It is very difficult to provide feedback on your portfolio and/or reel. We attend several conferences and festivals throughout the year. These are the best forums to receive direct feedback from our artists.
It is very difficult to provide feedback on your portfolio and/or reel. We attend several conferences and festivals throughout the year. These are the best forums to receive direct feedback from our artists.
Where are the programs located? Are moving/housing costs provided?
Our office is located in Los Angeles County in the city of Burbank about ten miles north of downtown. A basic relocation package is available for those who qualify and varies depending on the location of your legal residence. Some relocation benefits are considered imputed income and have a tax impact. If accepted into any of our programs, this information will be explained in more detail.
Our office is located in Los Angeles County in the city of Burbank about ten miles north of downtown. A basic relocation package is available for those who qualify and varies depending on the location of your legal residence. Some relocation benefits are considered imputed income and have a tax impact. If accepted into any of our programs, this information will be explained in more detail.
What if I am an International Student?
International students can apply for the Talent Development and Associate Programs. For students attending school outside of the United States, upon acceptance a variety of steps are required in order to qualify for the proper work visa. Please allow at least two months. For students attending school within the United States, upon acceptance will need to obtain the proper visa through your school’s international advisor. Please allow at least one month. These can both be lengthy processes and can vary from country to county and person to person. It is recommended that international students apply as early as possible.
How can I schedule a tour to see Walt Disney Animation Studios?
Tours can be scheduled through your professor or your school’s Career Services offices. We are unable to provide individual tours.
International students can apply for the Talent Development and Associate Programs. For students attending school outside of the United States, upon acceptance a variety of steps are required in order to qualify for the proper work visa. Please allow at least two months. For students attending school within the United States, upon acceptance will need to obtain the proper visa through your school’s international advisor. Please allow at least one month. These can both be lengthy processes and can vary from country to county and person to person. It is recommended that international students apply as early as possible.
How can I schedule a tour to see Walt Disney Animation Studios?
Tours can be scheduled through your professor or your school’s Career Services offices. We are unable to provide individual tours.
What should include be included in the Portfolio?
If you are submitting a portfolio, please send copies of your work (DO NOT send originals.) We recommend that you present your best work and limit your items accordingly. Organize your portfolio by highlighting your main passion first. Make sure to include your best work throughout. Include paintings, life drawing, animal sketches, and samples of your sketchbook. Include the right number to showcase your skills – no more than 25 samples.
If you are submitting a portfolio, please send copies of your work (DO NOT send originals.) We recommend that you present your best work and limit your items accordingly. Organize your portfolio by highlighting your main passion first. Make sure to include your best work throughout. Include paintings, life drawing, animal sketches, and samples of your sketchbook. Include the right number to showcase your skills – no more than 25 samples.
What is the best format for my application?
You choose one way of submitting your portfolio/reel: Upload, Website or Mail.
Digital files will only be accepted as .jpg, .pdf., .doc, .mov and .mp4 format. .jpg and .pdf files must be RGB color format – minimum size 11" X 8.5" (1553 X1200 pixels) at 150 dpi and follow the naming format: Firstname_Lastname_#.jpg (john_smith_01.jpg). Do not use spaces or any special characters (&%}$#@(!*=+:>?~\,;) in the file names. A single PDF file can be presented as a booklet form containing multiple files. Each file is limited to a maximum size of 100MB.
All DVDs must be NTSC with a Region Code 1 (USA, Canada) or Region Code 0 (Region Free).
The demo reel should be between three and five minutes. The reel/portfolio should include: sketches, gray scale models and/or works in progress. Modelers should include wire frames and turnarounds, riggers should display tool sets, and animators should include a variety of physical movements and actions, but must include facial animation. Look development should include texture paints, maps and the final look, if applicable. Story telling and Visual Development artists should present sketchbook samples as well ass finished compositions. Life drawings are not required, but preferred and to not show work currently in production and/or under confidential guidelines at other studio companies.
The reel should include a Breakdown List, which is a list that explains what work you were responsible for and if applicable, what technique/ software was used.
You choose one way of submitting your portfolio/reel: Upload, Website or Mail.
Digital files will only be accepted as .jpg, .pdf., .doc, .mov and .mp4 format. .jpg and .pdf files must be RGB color format – minimum size 11" X 8.5" (1553 X1200 pixels) at 150 dpi and follow the naming format: Firstname_Lastname_#.jpg (john_smith_01.jpg). Do not use spaces or any special characters (&%}$#@(!*=+:>?~\,;) in the file names. A single PDF file can be presented as a booklet form containing multiple files. Each file is limited to a maximum size of 100MB.
All DVDs must be NTSC with a Region Code 1 (USA, Canada) or Region Code 0 (Region Free).
The demo reel should be between three and five minutes. The reel/portfolio should include: sketches, gray scale models and/or works in progress. Modelers should include wire frames and turnarounds, riggers should display tool sets, and animators should include a variety of physical movements and actions, but must include facial animation. Look development should include texture paints, maps and the final look, if applicable. Story telling and Visual Development artists should present sketchbook samples as well ass finished compositions. Life drawings are not required, but preferred and to not show work currently in production and/or under confidential guidelines at other studio companies.
The reel should include a Breakdown List, which is a list that explains what work you were responsible for and if applicable, what technique/ software was used.
Will my portfolio/reel be returned?
We do not return any submission. DO NOT send original art work.
We do not return any submission. DO NOT send original art work.
Are there artistic tests for animators?
Not at this time.
Not at this time.
What kinds of careers are available at Walt Disney Animation Studios?
Our multi-discipline team consists of artists, engineers, production management, finance, operations, and a multitude of other necessary roles. For more information, please visit our Careers in Animation page.
Is it necessary to have professional experience to apply for an artistic position?
No, it is not necessary to have professional experience. A great portfolio and/or reel will showcase your potential and passion to your craft. If you are a recent graduate, please visit our Student Programs page for more information.
Our multi-discipline team consists of artists, engineers, production management, finance, operations, and a multitude of other necessary roles. For more information, please visit our Careers in Animation page.
Is it necessary to have professional experience to apply for an artistic position?
No, it is not necessary to have professional experience. A great portfolio and/or reel will showcase your potential and passion to your craft. If you are a recent graduate, please visit our Student Programs page for more information.
How do I apply for artistic opportunities?
Fill out our online application to create a profile – we are always accepting applications for job opportunities. Also, make sure to check out and apply for any Open Positions.
What is the interview process? How soon can I expect to hear from someone?
Upon receipt of your resume, portfolio and/or reel you will receive notification. Your work will be reviewed shortly thereafter. Next steps vary and could include a phone interview or a formal interview. If you don’t hear from us within 30 days, it is safe to assume that the position was filled.
Fill out our online application to create a profile – we are always accepting applications for job opportunities. Also, make sure to check out and apply for any Open Positions.
What is the interview process? How soon can I expect to hear from someone?
Upon receipt of your resume, portfolio and/or reel you will receive notification. Your work will be reviewed shortly thereafter. Next steps vary and could include a phone interview or a formal interview. If you don’t hear from us within 30 days, it is safe to assume that the position was filled.
When is the submission period?
We are always accepting submissions for job opportunities, regardless of current openings.
We are always accepting submissions for job opportunities, regardless of current openings.
Do I need to speak/write English in order to apply?
Yes, you will need to have strong English speaking and writing skills.
Disney seems to be on top, if you work at Disney your sure to get a job anywhere because of how picky they are. They look for the people who best qualify for the best. “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them” (Walt Disney)
Disney has recently opened a college themselves. It’s an internship; you work at Disneyland during the night and classes during the day. But that college is based on if you fit their physical description. Be enrolled currently in a college or university in the United States and have completed at least one semester.
Be in good standing with your school and meet your school's requirements to participate on an internship, externship, co-op, work experience program, etc.
Already have unrestricted work authorization in the U.S.
Working for Disney would be a great place because it’s a place where you could work for fun, instead of sitting at a desk all day you go and work with people and helping them find their happiest experience in the park and if they didn’t then you didn’t do your job right. “I would rather entertain and hope people learned something than educate people and hope they were entertained.” (Walt Disney
Yes, you will need to have strong English speaking and writing skills.
Disney seems to be on top, if you work at Disney your sure to get a job anywhere because of how picky they are. They look for the people who best qualify for the best. “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them” (Walt Disney)
Disney has recently opened a college themselves. It’s an internship; you work at Disneyland during the night and classes during the day. But that college is based on if you fit their physical description. Be enrolled currently in a college or university in the United States and have completed at least one semester.
Be in good standing with your school and meet your school's requirements to participate on an internship, externship, co-op, work experience program, etc.
Already have unrestricted work authorization in the U.S.
Working for Disney would be a great place because it’s a place where you could work for fun, instead of sitting at a desk all day you go and work with people and helping them find their happiest experience in the park and if they didn’t then you didn’t do your job right. “I would rather entertain and hope people learned something than educate people and hope they were entertained.” (Walt Disney
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