For animation we use Photoshop on a computer (not an ipad).

You can download a free 7 day trial for Photoshop CC here - Free Trial for Adobe Photoshop

It's also really helpful to have a drawing tablet to draw with.

I haven’t been paid to endorse any companies here - these are my personal opinions!

Beginner Option - Pen Tablet

These are tablets WITHOUT a screen, which you can ‘draw’ on with a pen, instead of your mouse. Having one of these will make the process 100x easier than trying to draw with a mouse or trackpad. You don’t need a fancy one at first, as long as you have a pen, that will do. 

• Wacom is, in my opinion, the best brand to go with. The quality is always brilliant and they will last a long time. Their Intuos pen tablets range from £70 - £449 - Wacom pen tablets
• Huion also offer cheaper alternatives, from £26 - £160. I have personally found that Huion products are lower quality and the customer service has been bad. But if you’re looking for something cheap to start with, this could be an option.

Pro Option - Pen Display

These are tablets WITH a screen, which you draw directly onto. They are used by most professional animators and illustrators and make the animation experience even more fun.

• Wacom is my favourite option for pen displays. The quality is incredible, I’ve had two that have lasted 5+ years. The prices range from £359 - £3,150 - Wacom pen displays
• Huion do sell pen displays for a slightly cheaper price. I bought one recently, and really regretted it - the quality was nothing like my Wacom, it often breaks, and they charged me loads of extra taxes after I’d purchased. So, if you want a screen tablet I would really recommend saving up a little longer until you can get a wacom, they’re absolutely worth the price.

Other Options - iPad & Apple Pencil

This is a good option if you already have both an iPad and an Apple pencil. You can use the app Duet and a usb lead to convert your ipad into a drawing tablet!

It is absolutely possible (but a little painful) to animate with a mouse or trackpad. If you decide to buy a tablet you can always start watching through the course whilst you wait for it to arrive.