This post will contain research and experiments with motion graphics and animation. The reason I prefer to design using this medium is it can instantly bring attention, it has the ability to draw the viewer in within seconds simply due to its motion. I will update this post as often as I can with my inspirations, reflection and work.
To sharpen my tools I have spent countless hours trawling through YouTube watching various tutorials within After Effects and just basically getting stuck in to it. This way of learning has proved very helpful with regards to my attention to detail and knowledge of the software. One motion designer in particular; Lee Daniels ART has aided me throughout a variety of projects. He created free content on YouTube which are short 'tip' videos on how to achieve a desired effect. One of projects in particular; Jungle Brawl, a comedic animation, provided me with inspiration and knowledge on storytelling through animation and the use of 3D camera tools within After Effects.
One of my recent experiments is the use of liquid within my animation. Upon watching similar styled videos I find the seamless motion extremely effective and decided to create an animation in this style. I decided to watch a few tutorials on YouTube for Inspiration and started to craft my project. I created the original movements within After Effects as this software is very accurate in moving objects at certain speeds and perspectives with regards to the use of keyframes and 3D camera tracking. To create the liquid/slime effect I used the Adobe Animate software, this particular program is effective in illustrating with a brush tool (similar to Illustrator) moving between each keyframe which is perfect for the effect I was trying to achieve.
My Animation experiment. Overall I was pleased with the outcome considering it was my first attempt. The use of tutorials aided me greatly I find looking through valid YouTube channels can be valuable research and inspiration.
Video that helped me achieve my liquid/slime animation
Although practicing using tutorials provides helpful, there are many elements to become a talented and successful motion designer. Ideally I would like to work within a company assisting in projects to gain experience and knowledge to then further my career. Nowadays there are so many different types of designers out there - graphic designers, web designers, UI and UX designers - the list seems endless. And they are only multiplying with the continuous development of technology and IT in general. The trendy profession of motion graphics designer or just motion designer is a new branch of design connected with the rush development of new technologies. Motion graphics is seen just in everything - in TV, movies, ads, from mobile graphics on many websites to mobile apps. To explain the job just in two words - motion graphics design tells a story, that static image never could do.
Graphic design skills are crucial for a motion designer. Motion design brings life to graphic static elements using animation. Having the skills of graphic design really helps make the motion work. Also, Fundamental art skill is a must, but in this century of technology, we just can’t do without animation software. We need to have a great artistic eye as a motion designer, and be handy in software like After Effects, Cinema 4D, Final Cut Pro, Illustrator, Photoshop and Premiere Pro. But it’s also important to have a solid understanding of animation basics.
As a motion designer, you need to be able to bring 2D elements to life through animation. To do this you need a strong knowledge of how to animate 2D elements. The animation in motion is not limited with few keyframes. You must know the fundamentals of animation and how things move. This is crucial to creating an engaging and pleasant work.
Successful motion designs start with communication. Speaking with your client as well as with your creative director in an appropriate way requires interpersonal communication skills. Remember also, clients are not designers, so it’s up to you to communicate your idea to them in a clear and understandable way. A good motion designer must be able to explain his/her ideas to clients or employers. I have found that this has come natural to me throughout my final year due to me creating animation in group projects when other members are unfamiliar with the medium.