Kirsten Lepore

I mentioned I'd emailed Kirsten a couple of weeks ago, and I had a lovely reply in my inbox this morning from her! She'd answered a few questions I'd proposed... here's a sum up of what she said ...

Technology/software and equipment... where did you start and what software and equipment do you use?
"I started in high school by learning flash, but I wouldn't recommend that to most people who are starting out.  If you're into 2D, it's a good idea to start with a pencil and animation paper, and practice that way.  Or, if you're into stop-motion, get a camera, some objects, and go to town!  Dragon Stopmotion or istopmotion are good places to start if you want to experiment w/ stopmotion.  Those softwares allow you to capture images directly into the computer from your camera, so you can see your animation as you're doing it.  Very helpful."

I asked about her experience with 3D software and what she thought of it...
"I took an Intro 3D class during undergrad where we learned 3D studio Max.  That's where I did the piece "Craig & Walter."  But I really can't stand working in 3D -- I just find the software very counter-intuitive and frustrating."

Any advice for someone interested in animation...
"I don't really have a ton of experience in that myself, so I don't know if I'm qualified to give advice -- but I think if you're putting a ton of time and energy into your projects and telling good stories/conveying solid messages, then it really helps.  Animation is one of the most time consuming arts -- but that is also something I really love about the medium."


I think Kirsten's idea of 3-D definitely reflects mine, although I would like to try it out, I have a feeling it would be too tedious and cause more of a headache than be time consuming yet enjoyable, as I've found other animation so far.
I think it's really useful to hear from other animators in the industry, it makes you realise how interesting an area it is to work in, and how achievable it really is if you just put your mind to it.
And lastly, I just want to say a massive thank you to Kirsten for her time :)
See more of Kirsten's work here -->  http://www.kirstenlepore.com/