- Training 3D Animation & FX
Character designers are visual storytellers who bring original characters to life for animation, video games, comics, and more. Their job blends creativity, strong drawing skills, and technical knowledge to build characters that are believable, expressive, and functional within a visual world.
What does a character designer do?
A character designer creates the look and personality of characters you see in animation, video games, comics, and other visual stories. Their job is to imagine what a character should feel like and then draw it in a way that fits the story.
They usually start with rough sketches, either by hand or on a computer. As the design takes shape, they think about how the character moves, what emotions they show, and what makes them unique.
Character designers often team up with other creatives like art directors, writers, and 2D and 3D computer graphics designers to make sure every design fits the project’s world and style. A strong design helps the entire team bring the character to life.
Key skills you need to become a character designer
- Drawing fundamentals: Anatomy, gesture, form, perspective
- Digital tools: Photoshop, Procreate, Blender, ZBrush
- Creativity: Visual storytelling, shape language, style versatility
- Observation: Real-world references, research, cultural curiosity
- Communication: Team collaboration, feedback adaptation
- Software literacy: 2D and basic 3D tools are often expected
Most character designers also learn the basics of 3D tools, even if they focus on 2D work. This helps them design characters that are easy to model or animate later.
Do you need a degree to become a character designer?
A degree is not required, but proper training helps and can make a big difference such as 3d Animation training or Video game training program, while others learn through online courses and mentorship.
What matters most is your portfolio. This is what studios and clients look at first. A strong portfolio should include:
- Original characters with different expressions and poses
- A variety of styles to show your range
- Designs that tell a story or show personality
- Clear, clean presentation of your work
Steps to become a character designer
1. Learn the basics: Focus on drawing, anatomy, and character structure
2. Practice regularly: Create original designs and redesign existing ones
3. Use the right tools: Learn digital software used in the industry
4. Build a portfolio: Showcase your strongest, most complete designs
5. Seek feedback: Post work online and grow through critique
6. Apply for opportunities: Look for internships, freelance gigs, or junior roles
Where can a character designer work?
Character designers are needed anywhere characters are part of a story or product. That includes animation, games, and even advertising. Some designers work full time in studios, while others take on freelance or contract jobs from home.
Here are some of the most common places character designers work:
- Animation studios for film or TV
- Video game development companies
- Comic book or illustration publishers
- Advertising and creative agencies
- Freelance platforms or remote projects
Studios like Pixar, Ubisoft, and Fortiche regularly hire character designers, but indie studios and agencies also offer strong opportunities.
How much do character designers earn
Salaries for character designers can vary depending on experience, the type of work, and where you live. Full-time jobs usually pay more in large studios, while freelance rates can change from project to project.
Here’s a general idea of what character designers earn:
- Entry-Level: $40,000 – $55,000/year
- Mid-Level: $60,000 – $80,000/year
- Senior-Level: $90,000 – $120,000/year
- Freelance Rates: $25 – $100+ per hour, depending on scope
Final tips for you
Becoming a character designer takes time, patience, and passion. It’s a creative career that rewards consistency and curiosity. Whether you go to Art school or learning on your own, the key is to keep growing.
- Focus on quality over quantity in your portfolio
- Keep learning software, trends, and design theory evolve constantly
- Network and stay visible: share your work and connect with others
- Be patient. Breaking in takes time, but consistency pays off
Answers to the most common questions
What software do character designers use?
Most character designers use tools like Photoshop, Procreate, Blender, or Clip Studio Paint. Some also learn ZBrush or Maya, especially if they work with 3D teams.
How long does it take to become a character designer?
It depends on how much time you practice. Some people take 2 to 3 years to build a strong portfolio. Others go faster or slower. There’s no set path consistency and feedback help you grow.
Can you be a freelance character designer?
Yes, many character designers work freelance. You can take on projects from studios, publishers, game developers, or independent creators. A strong online presence and clear communication are important for freelance success.
What’s the difference between a character designer and a concept artist?
Character designers focus only on how a character looks and expresses emotion. Concept artists may design characters too, but also handle environments, props, and the overall style of the project.
