Hire the best 2D animators

2D animators — also known as storyboard artists, character designers, or motion graphics designers — transform static images into dynamic, moving visuals. These skilled professionals create content for films, video games, marketing campaigns, and educational materials.

Whether you’re looking to create explainer videos, develop character animations for a GIF, or produce motion graphics for social media, you’ll want to understand how to hire the right 2D animator.

This guide will cover key aspects of hiring freelance 2D animators, including how to create a job post, understand essential qualifications, and navigate the hiring process.

Creating a 2D animator job post

Your job post lets you describe your project scope, budget, and talent needs. Although you don’t need a full job description, try to provide enough detail for a 2D animation freelancer to know if they’re the right fit for the project.

Job post title 

Create a simple title that describes exactly what you’re looking for. The idea is to target the keywords your ideal candidate is likely to type into a job search bar to find your project. 

Examples of clear, specific job titles:

• Skilled 2D animator needed for high-quality explainer video series
• 2D character animation specialist for indie game development
• Motion graphics designer for engaging social media content

Project description

Key elements to include in the project description:

• Type of animation. Specify whether you need character animation, motion graphics, logo animation, or other styles.
• Project goals and audience. Clearly state the purpose of the animation and who it’s intended for.
• Animation style. Describe your aesthetic preferences and any specific visual styles you want to achieve.
• Project timeline. Outline key milestones and the final deadline for the animation project.
• Deliverables. List all required outputs, such as storyboards, rough animations, and final rendered files.
• Collaboration details. Explain how the animator will work with other team members or stakeholders.

Job responsibilities

Here are some examples of 2D animator job responsibilities:

• Create high-quality animations using industry-standard software
• Develop storyboards and character designs
• Collaborate with clients, art directors, and other team members
• Implement revisions based on feedback
• Ensure animations meet project requirements and deadlines
• Optimize animations for different platforms (e.g., web, mobile, video games)

Qualifications

Be sure to include any requirements and skill sets you’re looking for in a 2D animator. For example:

• Specific number of years of experience in 2D animation and motion graphics
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite
• Strong understanding of animation principles and techniques
• Excellent drawing and illustration skills
• Knowledge of character design and storyboarding
• Familiarity with video editing and sound synchronization
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and time management skills

Helpful information before hiring a 2D animator

Before you start your search for a 2D animator, you’ll want to understand the role, the current job market, and what to expect in terms of projects and costs. This information can help you find the right professional for your animation needs.

Role overview

2D animators create animated content for various media, including films, TV shows, video games, and digital platforms. They bring static images to life through movement, timing, and visual storytelling. 

2D animators often work on projects such as explainer videos, character animations, motion graphics, and logo animations. They collaborate with clients, art directors, and other team members to ensure the final product meets the project’s goals and vision.

Hiring demand for 2D animators in 2024

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment of special effects artists and animators to grow 8% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS also estimates that around 9,400 new jobs will be created each year over the next decade. 

Common 2D animation projects

Some projects 2D animators might work on include:

• Animated videos for businesses
• Character animations for video games and mobile apps
• Motion graphics for social media content
• Logo design for brand identity
• Animated infographics and data visualizations
• Whiteboard animations for educational content
• Animated shorts and music videos

Industries hiring 2D animators

Industries that commonly hire 2D animators:

• Advertising and marketing agencies
• Animation studios and video production companies
• Video game developers
• E-learning and educational content providers
• Filmmaking and television production
• Digital media and social media platforms
• Corporate communication departments

Cost to hire 2D animators in 2024

Rates can vary due to many factors, including expertise and experience, location, and market conditions.

• An experienced 2D animator may command higher fees but also work faster, have more specialized areas of expertise, and deliver higher-quality work.
• A freelance animator who’s still in the process of building a client base may price their 2D animation services more competitively. 

Animators, including 2D animators, typically charge between $20 and $38 an hour on Upwork.

2D animator FAQ

We answer some frequently asked questions about 2D animators. 

How does 2D animation differ from 3D animation?

2D animation creates movement in a two-dimensional space, using techniques like hand-drawn animation, vector-based animation, or motion graphics. 

On the other hand, 3D animation involves creating and animating objects in a three-dimensional digital environment. 2D animation often has a more stylized, artistic look, while 3D animation can achieve more realistic effects.

What software do 2D animators typically use?

2D animators use different software tools depending on the project requirements. Common software includes Adobe After Effects for motion graphics and visual effects, Adobe Animate (formerly Flash) for vector animations, Toon Boom Harmony for traditional frame-by-frame animation, and TVPaint for digital hand-drawn animation. 

Some animators also use Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator for creating assets and backgrounds.

What are the main types of 2D animation?

2D animators may use several types of animation depending on the project: 

• Traditional animation. Traditional animation, also known as cel animation, involves hand-drawing each frame to create fluid motion and is often used for classic cartoons and artistic short films.
• Vector-based animation. Vector-based animation uses mathematical equations to create smooth, scalable graphics, making it popular for web animations and mobile apps due to its flexibility and small file sizes.
• Motion graphics. Motion design combines graphic design with animation, often used for title sequences, infographics, and UI design to convey information in a visually dynamic way.
• Cutout animation. Cutout animation involves moving cut-out pieces of paper or digital elements to create movement, giving a unique, textured look to characters and scenes.
• Rotoscoping. Animators trace over live-action footage to create realistic movements, resulting in a distinctive blend of live-action fluidity and animated stylization.
• Whiteboard animation. Whiteboard animation simulates drawing on a whiteboard, often used for explainer videos to present complex ideas in a simple manner.
• Pixel art animation. Pixel art animation creates animations using pixel-by-pixel editing, popular in retro-style video games and indie productions.

Hire a 2D animator today

Ready to bring your ideas to life through animation? Start your search for talented 2D animators today on Upwork and elevate your visual content with captivating animations that engage your target audience.