Become Anime

 Step 1

Study various types and styles of anime. Each studio and artist often has a slightly different interpretation of the art. Learning the cadence and movements commonly associated with Japanese animation helps you get a feel for how you might interpret your own material. Anime is ripe with spiritualism, the concept that things end and that characters learn and make mistakes. Learning the character-focused elements of anime gives you insight into the cultural aspects of the art.
Step 2

Develop a comprehensive portfolio. Try to do something unique. Given the sheer numbers of series and episodes within each anime series, it's easy to look derivative. While you watch the material, look for cues that exemplify the art style while introducing your own original elements. You want your materials to stand out among other applicants when you send your portfolio to schools and businesses.

Related Reading: Job Duties of an Animator
Step 3

Create an animation reel and post it to various social media sites. The exposure gleaned from places like YouTube, Tokyopop, Facebook and Twitter links may get your material in front of the right people.
Step 4

Enroll in an art school. Although you may possess enormous natural talent, using elements from formal art training brings your art to the next level. Schools in Japan, such as Kyoto Seika University, specialize in manga art, providing graduate and post-graduate courses. Western art schools like San Francisco's Academy of Art University offer associate, bachelor's and master's-level courses in art and illustration. As with any art school, a well-rounded portfolio is a must. Schools like Kyoto Seika administer manga-specific drawing and essay examinations as part of the entrance process.
Step 5

Craft a letter of interest and send it with your portfolio to anime studios such as Bang Zoom!, Manga Entertainment, Media Blasters and others. You might not be paid much or at all, but the experience you gather working with other anime professionals is valuable. You'll learn the business side of the anime industry as well, since many of these companies also offer digital, online and print distribution services.
Step 6

Create comic strips and short stories, or yomikiri. Anime is story driven, with some animated television series reaching 10,000-plus episodes. Place an emphasis on the interpersonal relationships between characters, moving slowly with the plot to flesh these out. Send these to publications like Shojo Beat for editorial evaluation.