Key Difference – Animation vs Cartoon
Animation and cartoon are often used interchangeably, but there is a clear distinction between the two. Animation is a technique that involves photographing successive drawings or positions of models to create the illusion of movement when shown as a sequence. On the other hand, cartoons can refer to a drawing or a television program or film created using the animation technique.
Key Takeaways
- Animation is a technique, whereas cartoon is a product made using animation.
- Animations can be watched by both adults and children, while cartoons are typically aimed at children.
- Animations can deal with mature and serious themes, whereas cartoons often focus on superheroes, anthropomorphized animals, and other lighthearted themes.
What is an Animation?
Animation is the art, process, or technique of creating films with drawings, photographs of static objects, or computer graphics. All techniques that do not involve the continuous filming of live-action images can be considered animations. Those who create animations are called animators.
There are various animation methods, including traditional hand drawings, stop-motion animation using paper cutouts, puppets, clay figures, and two and three-dimensional objects, and mechanical and computer animations. In general usage, the term “animation” often refers to cartoons broadcasted on TV and animated television shows and movies.
Although animations were initially targeted at young audiences, they are now enjoyed by both children and adults. Animations should not be confused with animes, which are Japanese-style animations that often contain adult themes.
What is a Cartoon?
Cartoons can refer to two things. Firstly, they can be simple, non-realistic drawings that depict humorous situations or exaggerated characters. These types of cartoons are often found in newspapers and magazines and typically use satire to provide subtle criticism. An artist who creates cartoon drawings is called a cartoonist.
Secondly, cartoons can also refer to short films or television shows that use animation techniques to photograph a sequence of drawings rather than real people or objects. Cartoons are usually aimed at children and often feature anthropomorphized animals, superheroes, and related themes. Examples of popular cartoons include Asterix, Scooby Doo, Duck Tales, Tom and Jerry, and Dora the Explorer.
What is the difference between Animation and Cartoon?
The main difference between animation and cartoon is that animation is a technique used to create an illusion of movement, while cartoons can refer to drawings intended as caricatures, satire, or humor, or short television shows or animated movies, typically intended for children.
Animations are created by animators, while cartoons are created by cartoonists (for drawings) or animators (for TV shows or short movies). While animations can deal with mature and serious themes, cartoons often focus on lighthearted subjects, such as superheroes, anthropomorphized animals, and mysteries.
