#VPA

Tag: #VPA

Exploring Stop Motion Animation: A Guide for Lawrence Students

What is Stop Motion Animation?

Stop motion animation is a filmmaking technique where objects are physically manipulated in small increments between individually photographed frames. When the sequence of images is played back quickly, it creates the illusion of movement. This method can bring anything from clay figures to everyday objects to life on the screen.

How is Stop Motion Animation Made?

Creating stop motion animation is a meticulous process that involves several key steps:

  1. Storyboarding and Planning: Just like any film, a stop motion project begins with a storyboard. This outlines the plot, scenes, and key actions.
  2. Building Models and Sets: Animators create or choose objects, characters, and backgrounds. These can be made from clay, paper, puppets, or even LEGO bricks.
  3. Animating: The objects are placed on the set, and a picture is taken. The animator then moves the object slightly and takes another picture. This process is repeated many times. Each tiny movement is one frame of the film.
  4. Photography: High-quality cameras are used to capture each frame. Consistent lighting is crucial to keep the visual appearance steady.
  5. Editing and Post-Production: Once all frames are captured, they are compiled and edited to smooth out the motion and add any special effects or sound.

Skills Needed for Stop Motion Animation

Stop motion animation requires a blend of artistic and technical skills:

  • Patience and Attention to Detail: The process is time-consuming and requires precision.
  • Creativity: Developing characters and stories requires a vivid imagination.
  • Technical Skills: Knowledge of cameras, lighting, and editing software is essential.
  • Manual Dexterity: Fine motor skills are needed to manipulate objects delicately.

Employers of Stop Motion Animators

Stop motion animators are hired by various employers, including:

  • Film Studios: Companies like Laika and Aardman Animations specialize in stop motion films.
  • Television Studios: Networks produce stop motion TV shows and commercials.
  • Advertising Agencies: Advertisers use stop motion for unique and eye-catching ads.
  • Video Game Companies: Some video games incorporate stop motion elements.

Examples of Stop Motion Animation

A well-known example of a stop motion film is Coraline (2009), produced by Laika. The film tells the story of a young girl who discovers a secret door to an alternate reality. Other famous stop motion films are Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) and the Aardman Animations / DreamWorks film Chicken Run (2000).

Starting a Career in Stop Motion Animation

Stop motion animators can start their careers in a variety of ways, and both freelancing and studio employment are common paths. Here’s a closer look at each option:

Freelancing

Advantages:

  • Flexibility: Freelancers can choose their projects and work schedules.
  • Diverse Experience: Working on various projects can build a broad skill set.
  • Creative Control: Freelancers often have more creative freedom.

Challenges:

  • Unstable Income: Freelance work can be inconsistent, making financial stability a challenge.
  • Self-Promotion: Finding clients and marketing oneself requires time and effort.
  • Lack of Resources: Freelancers may need to invest in their own equipment and software.

How to Start:

  1. Build a Portfolio: Create and showcase your work through a personal website or platforms like Vimeo and YouTube.
  2. Network: Connect with other animators and potential clients through industry events and online communities.
  3. Freelance Platforms: Use websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr to find freelance gigs.

Studio Employment

Advantages:

  • Steady Income: Studios typically offer more stable employment with regular paychecks.
  • Resources and Equipment: Studios provide access to high-quality equipment and facilities.
  • Collaboration: Working with a team can lead to valuable learning experiences and creative collaboration.

Challenges:

  • Less Creative Freedom: Projects may be directed by studio requirements and client needs.
  • Work Hours: Studio jobs may require long or irregular hours, especially close to deadlines.

How to Start:

  1. Education and Training: Many studios prefer candidates with formal education in film or animation programs that offer courses in stop motion.
  2. Internships: Gain experience and make industry connections through internships at animation studios.
  3. Entry-Level Positions: Look for entry-level roles like animation assistant, model maker, or production assistant to get your foot in the door.

Career Outlook and Salary

The demand for animators, including stop motion animators, is expected to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for special effects artists and animators was about $99,000 per year as of 2023. However, salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, and the type of employer.

Further Information

For more information on stop motion animation, check out these resources:

Embarking on a career in stop motion animation can be both challenging and rewarding. With dedication, creativity, and the right skills, you can bring your imaginative worlds to life.

Informational Interview with Kylie Zajdel ’22: Development Operations Coordinator at Seattle Symphony

I had the opportunity to conduct an informational interview with Lawrence alumna Kylie Zajdel ’22. Zajdel currently resides in Seattle, Washington, where she works in Development at the Seattle Symphony. In this reflection, I will touch on some of the main talking points from our interview, including Zajdel’s career path, network building strategies, and advice for Lawrentians interested in pursuing Arts Administration.

No “Typical” Career Path

During her time at Lawrence, Zajdel majored in music theory, flute performance, and French and francophone studies. Although she knew early on that stage fright would prevent her from pursuing a career in performance, she discovered a passion for being involved in music offstage. In the summer of 2021, Zajdel interned as the Student Operations Intern at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in Milwaukee. This experience introduced her to the world of Arts Administration and solidified her desire to stay connected to the arts without performing.

Currently, Zajdel works at the Seattle Symphony as the Development Operations Coordinator, focusing on the operational and developmental tasks that enhance the donor experience. Just before our meeting, she discussed career paths in Arts Administration with her boss, only to conclude that there isn’t a typical path in this field. She emphasized that everyone finds their own way into Arts Administration, and no two paths look the same. According to Zajdel, it’s all about discovering what interests you and gaining first-hand experience.

Networking is Really, Really Hard…

I asked Zajdel how she built a network within her field, to which she replied that she is currently in the process of networking within the Seattle-based arts community. She prefaced her answer by saying, “Networking is really, really hard…”. Despite this candid admission, she emphasized the importance of consistently putting yourself out there and taking risks when interacting with others in Arts Administration. Zajdel advised starting with connections that may seem the most outlandish, as you never know the extent of someone else’s network

Final Advice: Don’t Give Up!

Lastly, I asked Zajdel if she had any advice for students interested in pursuing Arts Administration. She matter-of-factly responded, “Just don’t give up.” Zajdel sent in roughly 50 applications within a year before acquiring her current position. She mused that, although the rejections hurt, not every job you apply for and want is the right job for you. Zajdel emphasized, “No matter how many rejections you get… you just have to keep going and waiting for the right job and the right person to relate to you [when reading your application materials].”

She also stressed the importance of researching not just the organization but also the individuals you’re applying to. Zajdel stated, “If you can find one thing to connect with on, chances are they’re going to be like ‘that really reminds me of me’ and you are going to get an interview.” She highlighted that the best way to achieve this connection is through your cover letter, urging students who are about to enter the workforce to “make yourself a person, not just a piece of paper.”

Careers in Art & Design

The field of arts and design is vast and full of exciting opportunities across various industries. Let’s dive into the different career paths you can pursue, ranging from higher education positions to roles in non-profits, for-profits, entertainment, and more.

Careers in Higher Education

  1. Art Professor:
    What They Do: Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in various art disciplines, develop curriculum, grade assignments, provide student feedback, mentor students, conduct scholarly research in art history or practice, exhibit personal artwork, and contribute to departmental and college committees.
  2. Museum Curator:
    What They Do: Manage and care for art collections, plan and organize exhibitions, conduct research on pieces in the collection, write labels and catalog entries, oversee educational programs and tours, collaborate with other curators and institutions, and acquire new pieces for the collection.

Careers in Nonprofit Organizations

  1. Art Therapist:
    What They Do: Conduct individual and group therapy sessions using art as a medium, assess clients’ needs and progress, develop treatment plans, maintain client records, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and present findings and techniques at conferences and workshops.
  2. Community Arts Organizer:
    What They Do: Develop and implement arts programs that engage local communities, organize public art projects, secure funding through grants and sponsorships, coordinate volunteers and staff, promote events through various media channels, and evaluate the impact of programs on the community.

Careers in For-Profit Organizations

  1. Graphic Designer:
    What They Do: Create visual content for branding, advertising, and marketing campaigns, design logos, websites, and promotional materials, work with clients to understand their needs and vision, use software like Adobe Creative Suite, present design concepts and revisions, and collaborate with other creatives such as copywriters and web developers.
  2. Interior Designer:
    What They Do: Plan and design interior spaces for residential and commercial properties, meet with clients to discuss needs and budget, create design concepts and floor plans, select furniture, lighting, and materials, oversee the implementation of design plans, and ensure projects comply with building codes and regulations.

Careers in Entertainment

  1. Animator:
    What They Do: Create animations and visual effects for films, TV shows, video games, and commercials, develop storyboards, design characters and backgrounds, use software like Maya or After Effects, collaborate with directors and other animators, and meet production deadlines.
  2. Set Designer:
    What They Do: Design and build sets for theater productions, films, and TV shows, create scale models and drawings, collaborate with directors and production teams, select materials and props, oversee the construction and installation of sets, and ensure sets meet aesthetic and functional requirements.

Other Relevant Careers

  1. Art Director:
    What They Do: Oversee the visual style and creative direction of publications, advertising campaigns, and film productions, lead a team of designers, photographers, and illustrators, develop concepts and strategies, present ideas to clients or executives, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
  2. Fashion Designer:
    What They Do: Design clothing, accessories, and footwear, create sketches and prototypes, select fabrics and materials, oversee production processes, present collections at fashion shows, and collaborate with other designers and marketers to promote and sell designs.
  3. Art Conservator:
    What They Do: Preserve and restore artworks, conduct scientific analyses to determine the best preservation methods, document the condition and treatment of artworks, use specialized tools and materials to repair and maintain art, collaborate with museum curators and other professionals, and educate the public about art conservation.

Final Thoughts

The world of arts and design is brimming with opportunities that cater to a wide range of interests and skills. Whether you’re drawn to teaching, community engagement, commercial design, or the entertainment industry, there’s a career path that can turn your passion for art into a fulfilling profession. So, explore these options, follow your creative instincts, and start crafting your dream career!

What Are Music Booking Conferences?

Music conferences are events where people from the music industry gather to share knowledge, network, and discover new opportunities. They usually feature panels, workshops, and performances, and are a great way for industry professionals to connect and learn from each other.

Positive Experiences and Interactions

One of the best parts of attending a music conference is the chance to meet and learn from experienced professionals. You get to hear inspiring stories, gain valuable insights, and make connections that can help advance your career. For example, at SXSW, you might find yourself chatting with a well-known producer or discovering a new artist that you really connect with.

Different Professions at Music Conferences

Music conferences attract a wide range of professionals, including:

  • Artists and Musicians: They can showcase their work, get feedback, and network with other artists and industry professionals.
  • Producers and Songwriters: They can learn about new techniques, collaborate with others, and find new opportunities for their work.
  • Music Executives and Managers: They can scout new talent, negotiate deals, and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
  • Music Educators and Students: They can gain new teaching methods, learn about the latest research, and network with peers.

Closing Thoughts

To learn more about the different types of Music Booking Conferences, be sure to check out BAM! Complete Guide to Conferences – United States by Robert Baird. Baird lists an assortment of conferences that take place all over the country!

Music conferences are a fantastic way to learn, grow, and connect with others in the industry. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a seasoned professional, there’s always something new to discover and someone new to meet. So why not give it a try and see where it takes you?

How to Pursue Music Freelance

Rocking the Freelance Music Scene: A Guide to Pursuing Your Passion

If you’ve got a passion for music and want to turn it into a career, you’re in the right place. Freelancing in the music industry can be incredibly rewarding, offering both creative freedom and a variety of work opportunities. Here’s how you can kickstart your career and the types of gigs you can pursue.

Step 1: Build Your Brand

As a freelancer, you are your own brand. Building a strong personal brand can set you apart from the competition and attract clients. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Create a Professional Website:
    • What to Include: Your biography, samples of your work, testimonials, a blog, and contact information.
    • Why It’s Important: A professional website acts as your portfolio and makes it easy for potential clients to find and hire you.
  2. Leverage Social Media:
    • Platforms to Use: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.
    • What to Post: Regular updates about your projects, behind-the-scenes content, music covers, and live performances.
    • Why It’s Important: Social media is a powerful tool to reach a wider audience, engage with fans, and showcase your personality and talent.
  3. Network and Collaborate:
    • How to Network: Attend music events, join online music communities, and collaborate with other artists.
    • Why It’s Important: Networking can open doors to new opportunities and help you build a solid reputation in the industry.

Step 2: Embrace the Entrepreneurial Spirit

As a music freelancer, you’re not just an artist—you’re also an entrepreneur. Here’s how to get into the entrepreneurial mindset:

  1. Understand the Business Side:
    • What to Learn: Basics of contracts, taxes, budgeting, and invoicing.
    • Why It’s Important: Managing your finances and legal matters efficiently will help you sustain and grow your career. To learn more about the financial and legal side of Music Freelance be sure to check out Tax Tips for Artists and Musicians.
  2. Set Clear Goals:
    • What to Do: Outline short-term and long-term goals for your career.
    • Why It’s Important: Having clear objectives keeps you focused and motivated.
  3. Market Yourself:
    • Strategies: Use email marketing, join music directories, and participate in industry forums.
    • Why It’s Important: Effective marketing helps you reach potential clients and gigs.
  4. Offer Multiple Services:
    • What to Offer: Diversify your offerings, such as songwriting, producing, teaching, and performing.
    • Why It’s Important: Multiple income streams increase your financial stability.

Step 3: Stay Organized

As a freelancer, you’ll need to manage your schedule, finances, and contracts. Use tools like Google Calendar, Trello, and accounting software to keep everything in check. Staying organized will help you focus on your music and avoid the chaos that can come with freelancing.

Step 4: Keep Learning and Growing

The music industry is always evolving, so stay updated with the latest trends and technologies. Take online courses, attend workshops, booking conferences and never stop learning. The more versatile you are, the more opportunities you’ll have.

Types of Freelance Gigs

  1. Session Musician:
    • What it involves: Playing instruments or singing for other artists’ recordings.
    • Who it’s for: Instrumentalists and vocalists with solid technical skills and the ability to adapt to different musical styles.
    • Example: A guitarist laying down tracks for a pop artist’s new album or a drummer recording for a jazz trio.
  2. Live Performer:
    • What it involves: Performing live at venues, events, or tours.
    • Who it’s for: Musicians who love the spotlight and have strong stage presence.
    • Example: Playing at local bars, weddings, corporate events, or going on tour with a band.
  3. Music Producer:
    • What it involves: Overseeing and managing the recording and production of music tracks.
    • Who it’s for: Tech-savvy individuals with a knack for sound engineering and creativity.
    • Example: Producing tracks for aspiring artists, remixing songs, or creating beats for hip-hop artists.
  4. Composer/Songwriter:
    • What it involves: Writing original music or lyrics for artists, TV shows, commercials, or movies.
    • Who it’s for: Those with a talent for crafting melodies and lyrics.
    • Example: Writing a jingle for an advertisement or composing a score for an indie film.
  5. Music Teacher:
    • What it involves: Giving private lessons or teaching at music schools.
    • Who it’s for: Musicians who enjoy teaching and sharing their knowledge.
    • Example: Offering guitar lessons to beginners or teaching music theory at a local school.
  6. DJ:
    • What it involves: Playing and mixing music at clubs, parties, or events.
    • Who it’s for: Those who love curating playlists and have a talent for mixing tracks.
    • Example: Spinning tunes at a nightclub or being the go-to DJ for weddings and private parties.
  7. Music Licensing:
    • What it involves: Licensing your music for use in TV shows, films, commercials, and video games.
    • Who it’s for: Composers and producers with a library of original tracks.
    • Example: Getting your song featured in a movie trailer or a commercial.

Final Thoughts

Pursuing a career in music freelancing is like riding a wave of creativity and business savvy. It’s challenging, but with passion, dedication, and a bit of hustle, you can turn your musical dreams into reality. So, tune those guitars, warm up those vocal cords, and get ready to rock the world!

Non-Performing Careers in Music

Perhaps your original career plan was to be a professional singer or musician, but somewhere along the way, that plan changed.  Deciding not to perform doesn’t mean you still can’t work in music.  Transitioning from a performing career can be challenging, but it also offers a world of opportunities where your skills and passion for music can thrive. While some might require additional education, here are ten other options to consider.

Music Education

  • Teaching: Consider obtaining teaching credentials to become a music teacher in schools or private institutions. Your performance background will be invaluable in inspiring and educating students.
  • Workshops and Clinics: Lead workshops, masterclasses, or clinics for aspiring musicians. This can be particularly fulfilling and allow you to share your expertise.

Music Therapy

  • Certification: Pursue certification as a music therapist. This field combines music with therapeutic practices to help individuals with various emotional, mental, or physical challenges.
  • Specializations: Work in settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, or private practice.

Music Production and Technology

  • Sound Engineering: Learn about sound engineering and audio production. Your musical ear can be an asset in recording studios, live sound for events, or post-production for media.
  • Music Production: Work as a music producer, helping other artists to develop their sound and record their music.

Arts Administration

  • Management: Use your insider knowledge of the music industry to manage arts organizations, orchestras, or theaters. Roles in operations, marketing, or development can be very rewarding.
  • Event Planning: Organize concerts, festivals, or other music-related events. This can include everything from logistics to artist management.

Music Business and Entrepreneurship

  • Music Publishing: Work in music publishing, helping artists get their music distributed and monetized.
  • Artist Management: Become an artist manager, using your experience to guide other musicians in their careers.
  • Entrepreneurship: Start your own music-related business, such as a music school, a recording studio, or a music promotion company.

Writing and Journalism

  • Music Criticism: Write for music magazines, blogs, or newspapers as a critic or columnist, sharing your insights and reviews of performances, albums, and trends.
  • Content Creation: Develop content for online platforms, creating videos, podcasts, or blogs that focus on music education, reviews, or industry news.

Performance-Related Roles

  • Session Musician: Work as a session musician for recordings or live performances. This can be a more flexible and varied path compared to solo performing.
  • Accompanist: Accompany other performers, whether singers, dancers, or other musicians, in various settings such as schools, churches, or theaters.

Corporate Roles in the Music Industry

  • Marketing and PR: Use your understanding of the music scene to work in marketing, public relations, or social media for music labels, venues, or artist agencies.
  • Talent Scouting: Work as a talent scout or A&R (Artists and Repertoire) representative, discovering and nurturing new talent.

Community and Non-Profit Work

  • Community Programs: Lead or coordinate community music programs, which can range from youth orchestras to outreach programs in underserved areas.
  • Non-Profit Organizations: Work with non-profit organizations that promote music education, cultural initiatives, or support for musicians.

Further Education and Specialization

  • Advanced Degrees: Consider pursuing further education in fields like musicology, ethnomusicology, or arts administration, which can open up additional career paths in academia or specialized areas.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to reflect on your interests, strengths, and the aspects of music that you are most passionate about. Networking with professionals in these fields and possibly seeking internships or volunteer opportunities can provide practical insights and open doors. Remember, the skills and experiences you’ve gained in performance—such as discipline, creativity, and collaboration—are highly transferable and valued in many other roles within the music industry and beyond.