Character Poses

Term from Animation Storyboarding industry explained for recruiters

Character Poses are the different positions and stances that animated characters take in storyboards and animation. Think of them like snapshots of how a character looks at important moments in a scene. Artists create these poses to show character emotions, actions, and personality. It's similar to how actors strike different poses in theater, but for animated characters. These poses serve as key reference points that help the animation team understand how characters should move and express themselves throughout a scene.

Examples in Resumes

Created Character Poses and Action Poses for main characters in animated TV series

Developed dynamic Character Poses for video game cutscenes

Collaborated with directors to refine Character Poses and Pose Sheets for feature film characters

Typical job title: "Character Artists"

Also try searching for:

Character Designer Pose Artist Character Animator Animation Artist Storyboard Artist Character Pose Designer

Where to Find Character Artists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure character poses remain consistent across a large animation project?

Expected Answer: A senior artist should discuss creating pose libraries, character style guides, and leading team reviews to maintain consistency. They should mention experience in managing pose sheets and character bibles.

Q: How do you approach creating poses that convey complex emotions?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process of studying human body language, using reference materials, and how they break down complex emotions into clear, readable poses that tell a story.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you adapt character poses for different animation styles?

Expected Answer: Should describe experience working with various animation styles (realistic, cartoon, stylized) and how poses change to match each style while maintaining character personality.

Q: What's your process for creating a set of key poses for a character?

Expected Answer: Should explain gathering reference material, sketching rough poses, considering character personality, and refining poses based on feedback.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What makes a strong character pose?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic principles like clear silhouettes, line of action, weight distribution, and how poses communicate character personality and emotions.

Q: How do you use reference materials when creating character poses?

Expected Answer: Should explain using photo references, video references, and acting out poses themselves to understand movement and weight distribution.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of body mechanics
  • Creating clear, readable poses
  • Using reference materials effectively
  • Understanding basic character expressions

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Creating dynamic action poses
  • Adapting poses to different styles
  • Working with pose libraries
  • Understanding character personality through poses

Senior (5+ years)

  • Leading character pose development
  • Creating style guides and pose sheets
  • Managing consistency across projects
  • Mentoring junior artists

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to create clear, readable poses
  • No understanding of basic body mechanics
  • Poor knowledge of character expression
  • Lack of experience with different animation styles
  • No portfolio showing variety of poses

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