2D Storytime Animator (Haminations/Jaiden Style)

Job ID: 40320860

Budget: $250 – $750 NZD

Looking for a talented 2D Animator to help produce high-energy "Storytime" YouTube Shorts. The goal is to replicate the fast-paced, comedic, and expressive animation style popularized by creators like Haminations. You will take a voiceover track and transform it into a visually engaging story using a signature character rig.

Key Responsibilities
Character Acting: Animate a consistent character with exaggerated expressions, "squash and stretch," and fluid movement.

Comedic Timing: Use visual gags, "impact frames," and snappy transitions to enhance the humor of the voiceover.

Lip-Sync & Gestures: Ensure the character’s mouth movements and hand gestures match the energy of the narration perfectly.

Backgrounds & Assets: Create simple but clean 2D backgrounds and props that fit the "hand-drawn" aesthetic.

Requirements
Style Match: You must be able to demonstrate a "Storytime" animation style (thick outlines, expressive eyes, and smooth motion).

Software: Expert proficiency in Adobe Animate (Flash), After Effects, or Toon Boom Harmony.

Retention Focus: Ability to keep the screen "moving" every 1–2 seconds to maintain 90%+ retention on YouTube Shorts.

Portfolio: Please provide links to previous storytime-style animations or character-driven shorts.

Technical Preferences
Knowledge of Character Rigging (puppets) to allow for fast turnaround times without sacrificing quality.

Ability to draw in a clean, digital "doodle" style that looks polished but approachable.

How to Apply
Please submit the following:

Your Best Work: Links to 2-3 videos that showcase character-driven storytelling.

Workflow: Mention if you prefer animating "frame-by-frame" or using "rigged puppets."

Pricing: Your flat rate for a 60-second high-quality animated Short.