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Hire expert animators in San Francisco, US

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Ferdina Lawrence

Available

Animator
I'm a Creative video editor and animator with hands-on experience producing short-form and long-form content for brands, streamers, and social media creators. Skilled in ...
parker

Available

Animator
I'm an animator, designer, and film producer from Los Angeles, California. I have experience producing, animating and designing content for broadcast television, wid...
Mike Turnbull

Available

Animator
My professional background is Graphic Design for Digital & Print media. I've worked in-house, at ad agencies and in freelance project settings. I have experience designin...
Banimator

Available

Animator
3D Animation, Autodesk Maya, Animation
3D Animation, Autodesk Maya, Animation
Professionally worked in the Animation industry for over 14 years. I have animated in many software packages in both 2D and 3D. I am a hard worker, and a team playe...
Jeff Bedrick

Available

Animator
Adobe After Effects, Animation, Motion Graphic
Adobe After Effects, Animation, Motion Graphic
I am a creative lead and digital motion designer with extensive experience and success across film, advertising, and live events. I specialize in producing innovative ani...
Franz Gabriel

Available

Animator
2D Animation, Adobe Animate, Animation
2D Animation, Adobe Animate, Animation
I am looking for a new role as a 2D animator utilizing Spine, After Effects, and Flash. I have 10+ years of experience in multiple industries such as mobile gaming and ad...
Arwen

Available

Animator
Adobe Photoshop, Animation, 2D Animation
Adobe Photoshop, Animation, 2D Animation
Arwen is an animator and illustrator currently located in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has a BFA in animation from California college of the arts and has completed two...
sefbursch5025

Available

Animator
Animation, Autodesk Maya, 2D Animation
Animation, Autodesk Maya, 2D Animation
Character Animator and Concept Artist Check out my website: http://www.artofsef.com
mvanderveen

Available

Animator
I’m Michael Vanderveen, an award-winning video producer, animator, and storyteller with over 14 years of experience crafting impactful visuals for brands, events, and org...
Annaliese Grandison

Available

Animator
2D Animation, Animation, Anime
2D Animation, Animation, Anime
Animator and Artist located in the San Francisco Bay Area --- A recent graduate from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) looking for freelance 2D animation wor...
Devin Brice

Available

Animator
I'm a 2D Animator specializing in digital frame by frame animation and visual storytelling. I've worked on several short films and love using animation to help define cha...
liana krakirian

Available

Animator
2D Animation, 3D Animation, Adobe After Effects
2D Animation, 3D Animation, Adobe After Effects
Hi! I’m Liana, a Motion Designer and the “puts eyes on things” person in my family. I’m here to tell fun and engaging stories. I grew up in SF Bay and eventually m...

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We have over 14,500 animators who've worked in many different industries and cover various styles and skillsets.
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"Working with Israel felt like onboarding a creative ops team in one person. He took our raw clips, ran them through his AI workflow, and delivered content that actually converts. Super reliable, super efficient."
Johnson @ Johnnystudio
Dec 2, 2025
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Dec 2, 2025
"Thanks for the work! Everything was done on time and quite well! I recommend working with Isabella 👍"
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Dec 2, 2025
"Fast, creative, and professional. Ayomide delivered high-quality animation that perfectly matched our brand style."
Thomas @ Thomas Coffee Co Ltd
Nov 30, 2025
"Adeniran abdullahi ayomide was really good to work with. I didn’t expect to get a very fascinating work."
Abdullah @ Ayodesign
Nov 30, 2025
"“I wasn’t sure how my concept would translate into AI prompts, but Mirabel made everything feel easy. She guided me with simple explanations, shared helpful suggestions, and delivered prompts that actually worked. Not perfect the first try, but she refined them quickly and the final outcome was amazing. Highly recommended!”"
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Clients Rate Twine Animators

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reviews as of December 6, 2025

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From the blog

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an Animator do?

Animators are skilled artists who create moving images through various techniques, including traditional hand-drawn animation, 2D and 3D computer-generated imagery (CGI), and stop-motion. They bring characters, stories, and concepts to life for various media, such as films, video games, advertisements, and websites. Animators work closely with directors, producers, and other creatives to develop visual narratives, ensuring that the animation aligns with the intended message and style. Their work involves storyboarding, designing characters and environments, and using specialized software to animate frames, making it a complex yet rewarding process that requires both artistic talent and technical proficiency.

How to Hire an Animator in San Francisco, US?

Hiring an animator in San Francisco, a hub for creative talent, involves a few key steps. Start by defining your project needs, including style, duration, and budget. Utilize platforms like Twine to post your job and connect with skilled animators. Review portfolios to assess their previous work and ensure they align with your vision. Networking within local creative communities can also yield recommendations. Conduct interviews to gauge their creativity, communication skills, and technical expertise. Lastly, ensure to discuss timelines and deliverables clearly to align expectations before finalizing the hire.

How much does it cost to hire an Animator in San Francisco, US?

The cost to hire an animator in San Francisco can vary significantly based on experience levels:

  • Beginner: $25 - $50 per hour
  • Junior: $50 - $75 per hour
  • Mid-level (industry average): $75 - $100 per hour
  • Senior: $100 - $150 per hour
  • Expert: $150+ per hour
These rates reflect the competitive market and the quality of talent available in San Francisco. Factors such as project complexity and length may also influence the overall cost.

What qualities set exceptional Animators apart from the rest?

Exceptional animators possess a unique blend of creativity, technical skills, and attention to detail. They have a strong understanding of storytelling and character development, enabling them to convey emotions and narratives effectively. Proficiency in multiple animation software and techniques is crucial for versatility. Good communication skills are also vital, as animators must collaborate with clients and other team members to ensure the project vision is realized. Furthermore, a passion for continual learning and adapting to industry trends sets exceptional animators apart, allowing them to innovate and elevate their craft.

How do you recognize the perfect Animator in San Francisco, US for your needs?

To recognize the perfect animator for your needs in San Francisco, start by thoroughly reviewing their portfolio. Look for a strong body of work that showcases their range, creativity, and style. Pay attention to their ability to tell stories and evoke emotions through animation. Client testimonials and reviews can provide insight into their professionalism and reliability. During interviews, assess their communication skills and willingness to understand your project’s vision. Finally, consider their experience with similar projects, as it can indicate their capability to meet your specific requirements.

What are the key questions to ask in an Animator interview?

When interviewing an animator, consider asking the following key questions:

  • Can you walk us through your creative process when beginning a new project?
  • What software and tools do you use, and why do you prefer them?
  • How do you handle feedback and revisions during a project?
  • Can you share examples of past projects that align with our needs?
  • What is your typical turnaround time for projects of this scope?
  • How do you stay updated with industry trends and technologies?
These questions will help gauge their expertise, adaptability, and compatibility with your vision.

What’s the difference between hiring a freelance Animator and working with an agency in San Francisco, US?

The primary difference between hiring a freelance animator and working with an agency lies in the structure and cost. Freelancers typically offer a more personalized approach, allowing for direct communication and often lower rates. They may specialize in specific styles or techniques, providing a unique touch to your project. Agencies, however, have teams of animators with diverse skills, which can be beneficial for larger projects requiring various expertise. While agencies may charge higher fees, they often provide project management and additional resources, ensuring a streamlined process and potentially quicker turnaround times.

What should be in an Animator project brief/job description?

An effective animator project brief or job description should include the following key elements:

  • A clear project overview outlining the goals and objectives.
  • Specific animation styles or techniques desired.
  • Target audience and project duration.
  • Details about deliverables, including formats and resolutions.
  • Timeline, including milestones and deadlines.
  • Budget constraints and payment terms.
  • Any reference materials or inspirations for the project.
Including these details ensures that animators understand your vision and can deliver quality work that meets your expectations.

How do I hire an Animator in San Francisco, US on Twine?

Hiring on Twine is simple.

  1. Post a job with your project details, timeline, and budget.
  2. Browse portfolios of vetted animators and invite those who match your needs.
  3. Receive proposals and compare experience, pricing, and reviews.
  4. Communicate expectations, set milestones, and finalize the hire.
  5. Securely pay through Twine, ensuring protection for both parties. Twine connects you with top freelance animators, making it easy to find the perfect creative professional for your project.

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