Stop-Motion Animation is a technique pioneered by Aardman Animations, where you physically manipulate objects and capture them frame by frame to create the illusion of movement. It's a fun and hands-on way to bring your stories to life!

To get started, try using the app Stop Motion Studio (https://www.cateater.com/). It's user-friendly and packed with features to help you create stunning stop-motion animations.

If you prefer drawing and painting, 2D Animation is the category for you. Create your characters and backgrounds, then bring them to life with movement and expressions through the power of the pencil, or your finger!

A great app to begin your 2D animation journey is Flipaclip (https://flipaclip.com/). It offers a wide range of tools and a simple interface, making it perfect for beginners and experienced animators alike.

Aspire to make the next Pixar movie? Then dive into the world of 3D Animation, where you create and animate 3D models in a virtual space.

Blender (https://www.blender.org/) is an excellent choice of tool to use. It's a powerful, open-source software that provides a comprehensive set of tools for modelling, animation, and rendering. Don't be intimidated by its professional-grade features; there are plenty of tutorials available to help you get started.

Check out the fantastic Blender tutorials by Grant Abbitt.

No matter which category you choose, the Young Animator of the Year UK competition is an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and showcase your talents.

The winners will be announced and have their films premiered at the prestigious Manchester Animation Festival in November. Plus, you could win amazing prizes like trophies and tours of the UK's top animation studios, past tours have included Aardman, AXIS, and Blue Zoo.

So, what are you waiting for? Choose your category, download the app, and start creating! We can't wait to see the incredible animations you'll submit to the Young Animator of the Year UK competition.

Good luck!