Q&A for How to Make an Anime

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  • Question
    How do you write a good anime?
    Lucy V. Hay
    Lucy V. Hay
    Professional Writer
    Lucy V. Hay is a Professional Writer based in London, England. With over 20 years of industry experience, Lucy is an author, script editor, and award-winning blogger who helps other writers through writing workshops, courses, and her blog Bang2Write. Lucy is the producer of two British thrillers, and Bang2Write has appeared in the Top 100 round-ups for Writer’s Digest & The Write Life and is a UK Blog Awards Finalist and Feedspot’s #1 Screenwriting blog in the UK. She received a B.A. in Scriptwriting for Film & Television from Bournemouth University.
    Lucy V. Hay
    Professional Writer
    Expert Answer
    Watch movies, anime and TV shows to analyze them. Don't just watch them and decide whether you like them or not. Really think about the craft of writing and how that analysis would actually apply to an anime or a TV show that's produced. Think about things like the concept, the structure and plotting of that story, but don't stop there. You also need to analyze the characters as well — what's their role function and their motivation? You will only develop these techniques by practicing and studying.
  • Question
    How do I write a script?
    Lucy V. Hay
    Lucy V. Hay
    Professional Writer
    Lucy V. Hay is a Professional Writer based in London, England. With over 20 years of industry experience, Lucy is an author, script editor, and award-winning blogger who helps other writers through writing workshops, courses, and her blog Bang2Write. Lucy is the producer of two British thrillers, and Bang2Write has appeared in the Top 100 round-ups for Writer’s Digest & The Write Life and is a UK Blog Awards Finalist and Feedspot’s #1 Screenwriting blog in the UK. She received a B.A. in Scriptwriting for Film & Television from Bournemouth University.
    Lucy V. Hay
    Professional Writer
    Expert Answer
    To learn this craft, you will need to read a lot of screenplays. In the age of the internet, it's easier than ever to find screenplays through simple searches. Also, join Facebook groups to swap work with other screenwriters and do peer review so you all get better together.
  • Question
    I'm too shy to ask for help, I'm afraid they will think it's stupid and not want to be a part of it. How do I get more confidence?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Just ask for help. That's the only way you'll get better. If someone makes fun of you, they're not a good friend. Most likely anyone you ask will just say yes or tell you they're not interested. Sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone if you really want something. Just give it a try, I bet you'll be glad you did.
  • Question
    Can I be a solo anime producer?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    You can go solo for almost any job, but for producing it would be almost impossible.
  • Question
    What programs can be used?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    For drawings, you can use a free digital paint software like FireAlpaca, which has an animation feature. For audio, Audacity paired with Levelator works well. For animation, any free movie maker will work when you start out, but you will want to upgrade later on.
  • Question
    Does anime need to be made in Japan?
    Caeiia
    Caeiia
    Top Answerer
    No - take RWBY as an example. It's considered an American anime, and has actually been translated to Japanese! It's just that anime typically is made in Japan, and that's what you see most of the time.
  • Question
    How many episodes should I make per season?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Typically a season has about 20. But it's better to have a shorter season than to include a lot of pointless filler. It's up to you!
  • Question
    What type of software should be used by someone who is totally new to animation?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    If you're a total beginner, try Flipaclip (available on Android and iOS). It has all the basic tools for animation and it's great for practicing.
  • Question
    Can I make an anime on my own?
    Life attache
    Life attache
    Community Answer
    Yes, but it will be a tedious process. You could consider getting help from other talented people.
  • Question
    How much does it cost to make an anime?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    It depends on how many frames you use and which programs and equipment you have rented or bought.
  • Question
    How do I make an anime as a kid with no money?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    You should (if you have not already) develop your art skills, and then use an animation app to start practicing until you feel like you are ready to start working on a bigger project.
  • Question
    Can you suggest the best computer specifications for creating an anime?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    This very much depends on the software you will use. The sites for the software will tell you what requirements your computer will need to run them. There is no "one size fits all" type of number for this.
  • Question
    If I live in America, can I send my anime to a Japanese company?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    What you want to do is have a small fan base first and bring up hype. Sadly, it's likely to be ignored unless you establish yourself here first.
  • Question
    How can I do this as a high school student with a very limited budget?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    You could get a summer job and earn your own money, while you make your own Anime. You can also try putting up your project on a crowdfunding site. If you have friends who are also talented, maybe you can recruit them to help you out.
  • Question
    How long does it take to make an anime?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    It depends, but it could take at least several weeks.
  • Question
    How do I make an anime with little to no budget?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    There are many free audio, drawing, and animating program and apps on the market that can be a good starting point for anyone, but it is most times a good idea to upgrade software eventually. Firealpaca is drawing software that also has an animating feature, so that is a good starting point in that respect. Audacity is a good free audio software.
  • Question
    What is the best free program to create anime with?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    I found Flipaclip quite useful. Although it is the only one I’ve tried I highly recommend it. You can download it for Android and IOS.
  • Question
    How do I create anime character outfits?
    Mehitable Brauner
    Mehitable Brauner
    Top Answerer
    To create anime character outfits, consider your character's personality, role, and world. Outfits can reflect their mood, status, or story themes. Begin with simple shapes and colors, then add details that align with your character. Focus on expression; let the outfit help tell the story.
  • Question
    What should I do if I am unable to find actors for my anime project?
    Mehitable Brauner
    Mehitable Brauner
    Top Answerer
    If you are unable to find actors, do not let this hinder your progress. Many creators begin by utilizing voiceovers, animation, or even performing the roles themselves. You can also involve friends or use temporary stand-ins until suitable individuals are found. Focus on the core of your story, as solutions often emerge when you remain committed to your creative vision.
  • Question
    What if making an anime takes years?
    Mehitable Brauner
    Mehitable Brauner
    Top Answerer
    If it takes years, that's okay. Many great anime creators spend a long time shaping their stories, learning new skills, and finding their voice. Progress isn't always fast, but every sketch, idea, and effort adds up. Your passion is the fuel, and time deepens your craft. Keep going at your own pace; the journey itself is part of the art.
  • Question
    I have completed my sketches, script, and character designs. What websites and apps should I use to animate my anime?
    Mehitable Brauner
    Mehitable Brauner
    Top Answerer
    Having finished your sketches, script, and characters, you are ready to start animating. Many apps and websites can help you bring your drawings to life; some are simple and beginner-friendly, while others offer more advanced features. You should choose tools that match your comfort level and creative style. The most important thing is to keep going, as your story deserves to be seen.
  • Question
    If I mention weed in my work, will it affect my work?
    Snakey006550
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Mentioning weed in your work depends on the context and environment. If your workplace or audience is open to it and it's relevant, it might not have a significant effect. However, in a professional or formal setting where such topics aren't appropriate, it could impact how you're perceived or affect your work. Consider the culture of your workplace or the expectations of your audience before bringing it up.
  • Question
    What website should I use to make my anime?
    Snakey006550
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    To create your own anime, you can use different websites and tools based on your skills. Toon Boom is a professional software for high-quality animations. Pencil2D is a simple, free tool for 2D animations. Krita is a free program for creating anime-style artwork and animations. Animaker is a beginner-friendly online tool with templates for anime-style videos. Manga Studio, also known as Clip Studio Paint, is mainly for digital art and manga but can also be used for creating animations. These platforms can help you bring your anime ideas to life.
  • Question
    How many seasons do you recommend for a series?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    It's really up to you. The average series lasts between three and six seasons.
  • Question
    As a teenager, what if my community is unhelpful and I have no tools to start?
    Mehitable Brauner
    Mehitable Brauner
    Top Answerer
    If your community is unsupportive or you lack tools, remember that creativity doesn't require permission. Begin with what you have—like paper, ideas, or your voice. Many artists start small, utilizing free resources and learning step-by-step. Your passion is a valuable tool, so keep going; you are building something real.
  • Question
    I'm 11 years old. Can I really do it?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Of course you can! You can be any age and still make an anime. Good luck! :)
  • Question
    Can 2 people create anime? And if yes, how can they divide the methods specified above?
    Rosalind McCollum
    Rosalind McCollum
    Community Answer
    Consider dividing among each of you what you can do. One person can do story board and character design, the other can work out the specifics, and network. I personally am doing this, with myself writing a script, since I can't draw, and working with an artist on it.
  • Question
    What if I need different voices for my anime, how will I do that with just me?
    TGH37
    TGH37
    Community Answer
    Adjust your voice for every character, lowering it or making it heavier. It doesn't make much of a difference, but it can help others understand who is who.
  • Question
    I am thinking of making an anime, but I'm starting on paper an I'm planning to just scan it in the end. Will that work smoothly?
    TGH37
    TGH37
    Community Answer
    If you are planning to scan it, you need to make sure that there are at least 12 drawings for each second in order for it to work smoothly, which is an exhausting process, so I think it would be better to download a free animation software instead.
  • Question
    I was thinking about making an anime called Super Cartoon Game Bros. But the problem is I don't have anyone to help me. Should I do it by myself? Also can I make a trailer out of it?
    KAYDEN REDMAN
    KAYDEN REDMAN
    Community Answer
    A trailer would be a good place to start. It would help you get together what you need to have. And doing it by yourself may be possible, it’s difficult. Try creating a club to get people together and help.
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