Last minute gifts for animators 2018

So your SO or loved one works in the field of animation and you wonder what to buy for them, right?

You love animation too but have no clue what is trending, relevant or have no idea what gift says I care huh?

Sweat no more! Here is a list of relevant gifts that will make a big impression on the animator in your life.

How to Cheat in Maya 2017: Tools and Techniques for Character Animation

This is a great reference book for 3D/CG animators that work with Maya. Artists appreciate tips and workflows on how to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and this book delivers big on this kind of content. This is the latest edition available and most of the teachings can be applied to other software packages.

Animated Storytelling: Simple Steps For Creating Animation and Motion Graphics

This book offers countless ways to improve your storytelling when working with animated projects. I had the fortune to review an early copy of this book before its release and it really helped me to come up with original ideas for my shots. When people ask me how did you come up with such an idea, I pull out my copy from my backpack.

American Experience: The Circus DVD

This documentary might not be related to animation but is highly related to the entertainment business that animation happen to serve to. The story of the American circus enterprises is as interesting and fascinating as Walt Disney's story. I think there is a ton of information that can be translated into animated endeavors to let this DVD fly by, and some of the stuff you learn you can use it to make small talk. Give it a chance, you won't be disappointed.

The Nine Old Men: Lessons, Techniques, and Inspiration from Disney's Great Animators

Andreas Deja, master animator of Scar from Lion King fame. Put together a great book about the second generation of master animators at the Walt Disney Studios on its beginnings. Full of stories and sketches from each of the productions they worked, it is a great source of inspiration and mental zen for animators that follow their teachings and put them to work day in and day out.

XP-PEN Artist15.6 15.6 Inch IPS Drawing Monitor Pen Display Graphics Digital Monitor with Battery-Free Passive Stylus (8192 Levels Pressure)

Animators draw a lot, it doesn't matter it is on a computer, on paper and this monitor brings both worlds together at a very affordable price. It has tons of good reviews and seems to be very reliable. If you want to get a WOW face, this is the one gift you should buy. Do your homework though, ask the person you want to gift this to tell you about his/her setup and ask them "why some animators draw directly on a screen?" and based on the response, make your final decision.

Artist Glove with Two Fingers 2 Pack,Free Size Prevents smudges for Light Box Graphic Tablet Pen Display iPad Pro Pencil Black Drawing Art Creation

This is more like a stocking stuffer or an extra for a gift bundle. This glove helps your hand slide easier when you are working with a screen, a tablet or piece of paper. It feels great and will keep dirt and such away from the surfaces you are working with.

Animated Performance: Bringing Imaginary Animal, Human and Fantasy Characters to Life (Required Reading Range)

This book helps animators with acting and animation performances. It is a great source to create shots with sincerity and uniqueness. I can assure that this book will give your loved one a new view on how to plan shots and get the best possible shot they can.

So this is all I can think of now. Should I find more gift ideas, I will post them by Wednesday.

Merry Christmas and the best of the holidays to you. Thank you very much for putting the time on reading my blog. I only hope this has helped you to make your Christmas shopping a little bit easier and less stressing.