Meet Danny Shiels, our awesome Storyboard Revisionist! Danny started with us in production but then moved into a more creative role! We caught up with him for a few minutes to discuss what his role involves and what he loves about animation.

How did you get into animation?

I’ve always had a passion for animation and film and would watch anything animation related as a kid, so coming up to picking a course, a year before my Leaving Cert, I found a brochure for Ballyfermot College on the floor of the guidance counsellor's room in my school one day (maybe it was destiny! :P). It gave me the focus I needed and I got a portfolio together with the help of my mum and started a foundation course in Ballyfermot in 1999.

How long have you worked in the animation industry?

I’ve worked in the animation industry now for the past ten years, it took a few extra years after college to get into the industry but I was adamant that I was going to get in.  I kept working on my art and kept applying to studios (I’ve lost count of the many times I applied to Brown Bag) but in the end I got in and couldn’t be happier!  Hard work always pays off….eventually.

What's your current role and what does it involve?

Currently I’m a Storyboard Revisionist. My job is to make any amendments the Episodic Director or client might ask for on a particular production. It’s an interesting job as I get to see lots of different styles of storyboards from great artists and learn from them.

What are your biggest influences/inspirations?

The Star Wars films. I would really love to, maybe one day, get a chance to play in that sandbox, especially with all the new films! Or who knows, maybe Brown Bag might get a Star Wars pre-school show!

Also, 1980s Saturday morning cartoons were very influential especially the Bruce Timm Batman and Superman series.

What’s your favourite tool to use and why?

Has to be my 13wx cintiq! It’s a drawing tablet and saves me so much time doing work, though it's still nice to go back to pencil and paper every so often.

What advice would you give someone considering getting into animation?

It can be a hard old road to travel sometimes, getting into the industry. There are so many other talented people out there all looking to get in. Family and friends might tell you to pack it in if you don’t get into the industry straight out of college, but if this is something you truly want then fight for it!

Practice, practice, practice, and remember to eat and exercise lol.

What do you like most about working in animation?

The people, it’s amazing to be surrounded by so many talented people, and in-between the hard work there are so many laughs to be had too.

What’s been the most challenging thing about working in animation?

The deadlines, they can be overwhelming at times but luckily there will always be somebody to help you out if needed.

Outside of animation what are you most passionate about?

Art is a major part of my life inside and outside of work, so films and comics and photography are important.

Are you interested in getting into animation? Keep an eye on our Behind-the-Scenes and Tutorials pages for more interviews, #Tutorials and #TopTips!