For many video projects it may be smarter to commission an animator and manage the job rather than doing it yourself. You can find animators online through sites such as https://www.upwork.com/ . But there are some real advantages to working with a local animator in person, so ask other producers in your area. They will generally be happy to recommend a talented local animator. Your state’s film and TV office will probably have a list of freelancers including animators. You may also find local animators in Craigslist under services/creative services.

You’ll need to discuss your budget with the animator up front. You don’t want to waste the time of someone who only does national TV spots when you have a local budget. It is worth your while to talk to a lot of people in animation. One of them may be able to recommend the perfect person for your job. It may be appropriate for you to wrap the animator’s fees into your contract. Just be sure you know what you’re doing. Make sure the client knows what changes to an animation will cost. A good contract with a Change Order form will be very helpful. You will find them both in the Professional Producer course.

Excerpted from Marketing With Digital Video.