Lights, camera, action.
We know the traditional cue for a film crew on-set.
Now, we are all creators and directors of our own mini-productions, with the technology at our fingertips and illustrations, graphics and special effects to add sparkle.
Here’s how to make your motion production professional – Lights, Camera … Animation!
This blog was based on the thoughts shared in this LinkedIn crowd-sourced article.
Take your seats and prepare to be transformed into a delightful new world where anything is possible.
Here’s our blockbuster guide to create the animation of your dreams.
Hook the audience
What are your spectators there to see?
- Align style with message, audience and purpose.
- What will influence the style? Nature of content nature, audience, emotions and tone.
- What styles are there? 2D, 3D, motion graphics, stop motion, frame by frame, vector, realistic – or a hybrid.
Screen of choice
Understand how it’s being watched
- Prioritise a ‘hook’ for the short attention span of social media audiences.
- Craft longer-form storytelling for brand films and explainer videos.
- Consider interactive and responsive animation for web.
Splendid scripts and storyboards
Building a story that demands attention
- Define who is telling the story narration and any dialogue. Pace plays a big role in holding attention.
- Ensure the key messages and takeaways are unmissable and align with communication goals.
- Think about the staging – use a variety of camera angles.
Powerful props
Bring the animation alive with elements, actors and attire
- Supercharge your output with icons, characters and backgrounds, with colours, fonts and shapes that are consistent with brand guidelines.
- Optimize for size, resolution and format.
Source assets or create them with Illustrator, Photoshop, Cinema 4D and Blender.
Action!
Get down to business with creative wizardry and tech skills
- Power up with After Effects, Premiere Pro, Cinema 4D or Blender.
- Create motion using keyframes, easing, transitions, masks, filters and plugins.
- Don’t underestimate the power of the right sound effects and music.
Dress rehearsal
A tech run through before sharing
- Test timing, flow, and quality rigorously before unleashing your masterpiece.
- Nail format, compression and quality whether the final output is an MP4, MOV or GIF.
Keep it snappy with attention to file size, loading speed and compatibility.
Curtains up!
Be ready to evaluate and improve when the reviews are in
- Edit and refine to get the end result perfect.
- Evaluate using metrics — views, likes, shares.
- Dive into audience insights through surveys or polls.
So, the stage is set, the house lights are up – it’s showtime!
This blog was based on the thoughts shared in this LinkedIn crowd-sourced article.