Why Animation & VFX Artists Need to Pivot in 2025

The animation and VFX industries have always been fast-moving, with trends and technologies constantly evolving. But 2025 is shaping up to be a year of dramatic change—and for animators and VFX artists, the time to adapt is now.

One shift that’s becoming impossible to ignore is the rise of YouTube as the definitive platform for animation and content creation. Whether you’re producing short films, animated series, or VFX-driven content, YouTube is increasingly the go-to place for audiences. And when I say YouTube, I’m not just talking about watching on your phone or desktop—I’m talking about streaming on smart TVs and devices. With the increasing popularity of streaming platforms, YouTube is fast becoming the central hub where audiences of all ages tune in to watch content. All roads point to YouTube as the place where animation and VFX artists will reach global audiences, build their personal brands, and even make a living.

In my next post this week, I’ll explore why YouTube is the future and how artists should prepare for the explosion of opportunities there. Stay tuned!

The old paths we once followed—studio jobs and traditional pipelines—are no longer the guaranteed road to success they once were. Artists must be ready to pivot as the landscape shifts with downsizing studios, AI advancements, and the growing demand for remote work.

But what does it mean to pivot in 2025? And more importantly, how can you prepare yourself to thrive?

1. The Changing Job Market

In recent years, we’ve seen massive shifts in the job market for animators and VFX artists. Studios are downsizing, and many traditional roles are becoming less stable or disappearing entirely. While some industries are slowing down, others are seeing explosive growth—and this is where you need to focus your energy.

For example, remote work is now a mainstream norm. With more companies offering flexible virtual opportunities, the world is your studio. If you’re used to working in-house, the pivot to freelancing or remote contracts might seem daunting, but it’s essential to stay competitive. Investing in your equipment, like a strong computer and reliable internet connection, is key for this transition.

Important note: Some remote positions require you to work on the company’s machine via a remote desktop, meaning a fast and stable internet connection is essential for smooth performance. At a bare minimum, ensure your computer can maintain a high-speed connection without lag or disconnects.

There are additional considerations for freelancers. If the studio doesn’t cover software costs, negotiate your salary to account for the software expenses you’ll need to maintain on your machine. This includes everything from 3D animation software to video editing tools. Make sure that your compensation covers these costs to keep your workflow seamless.

Takeaway from the Playbook:

One of the key lessons from the Playbook is focusing on the human side of creativity. As AI continues to evolve, it’s the artists who master emotional storytelling, design principles, and creative collaboration who will stay ahead. The future of this industry is about working with AI, not against it.

2. AI’s Impact on Animation & VFX

AI is no longer just a buzzword. Generative AI tools are revolutionizing animation and VFX, automating some tasks once done manually. While some may see AI as a threat to their jobs, the reality is much more nuanced.

I’m still the person who proudly sells the “FUCK AI ART” pencil (which you can find here: FUCK AI ART Pencil), but I now see AI as a tool rather than a replacement for artists. AI can’t innovate or tell an original story without human assistance—that’s where you come in.

For example, the role of a Character Animator isn’t going to transform into an “AI Character Animator.” Instead, a character animator might find themselves working for a content studio rather than a traditional movie studio. They will use AI tools to help automate their job’s repetitive, technical parts, like creating a MEL script that designs a motion trail for different parts of a character’s hierarchy. This isn’t about replacing the creativity of the character animator—it’s about boosting the efficiency and speed with which we create. Creativity is still human; AI makes specific processes more efficient and less time-consuming.

These AI tools, which are already starting to come into play, like generative fills in Photoshop or Premiere, will continue to evolve. But ultimately, AI will enhance your work, not replace it. If you’re an artist fearful of AI stealing your style, ask yourself: Is your style strong and unique enough to withstand the rise of these technologies? The future of art is about brand strength, uniqueness, and human collaboration with machines.

New Career Paths for Animators & VFX Artists

Traditional roles like animation supervisor or VFX compositor are evolving into new and exciting opportunities. For instance, the interactive media space is growing rapidly—games, VR, and AR are the new frontiers for VFX and animation artists. But I’m not talking about the traditional console-based experiences like PlayStation or Nintendo when I say games. I mean desktop, mobile, and mixed-media games played on various platforms, from PCs and smartphones to augmented reality experiences on devices like smart glasses. This is where the next wave of gaming is happening, and animators and VFX artists will be in high demand to bring these projects to life.

In fact, roles like Creative Technologist and Web 3.0 Artist are quickly emerging, shifting from traditional animation and compositing into more cutting-edge fields where technology and art intersect. NFTs are not a passing trend—they’re the beginning of the digital ownership revolution. Artists who understand the combination of art and blockchain technology will have an edge in the coming years.

Another booming field is immersive content creation for live events, museums, and shows. As virtual experiences continue to grow, there’s a massive demand for content creators who can design immersive storytelling for these platforms. The future is yours if you have motion design and VR/AR skills.

4. Freelancing & Remote Work: The Future of Animation & VFX

The rise of freelancing is no surprise. With studios downsizing and remote work options increasing, many animators and VFX artists want to freelance full-time or build their own studios. This shift is driven by the flexibility that freelancing offers, not only in terms of location but also project variety.

However, freelancing in animation and VFX isn’t just about finding more projects. It’s about building a brand, maintaining consistent work, and creating long-term client relationships. Freelancers who succeed in the industry build a portfolio and develop strong business acumen to ensure they can keep working.

How Can You Pivot Successfully?

  • Stay Educated: Keep learning new tools, techniques, and platforms. Attend workshops and online classes to stay sharp and relevant in the industry.
  • Embrace New Technologies: Don’t wait for AI or new tools to disrupt your career—become an early adopter. Learn how to use these tools to enhance your work, not replace it.
  • Expand Your Skillset: Branch into new media formats like VR, AR, or game cinematics. These areas are booming, and your skills as an animator or VFX artist can be applied in exciting new ways.
  • Build Your Personal Brand: Whether freelancing, teaching, or working remotely, build a recognizable brand. Develop an online presence through platforms like LinkedIn, ArtStation, and Instagram, and stay visible in the industry.

Ready to Make the Pivot?

The New Animation & VFX Playbook is designed to help you confidently make these shifts. Inside, you’ll find expert insights on how to navigate the changing industry, including tips on freelancing, embracing new tools, and exploring new career paths.

Sign up today for early access and get a special launch discount before March 30th!

Sign Up Here – SUBSCRIBE FOR THE PLAYBOOK