The terms “Animation” and “Motion Graphics” are frequently used interchangeably among animated explainer video experts and these are the only things that revolve in the motion graphics explainer video services sector. They do not, however, always exist in isolation from one another. Often, the animation must be combined with motion graphics to complete the product.
Most people will be unconcerned about the distinction between the two. However, if you work in the creative industry or want to make a motion graphics or animations video for your company, you should know the difference.
If you’re new to the design world or learning how to make an animated video for your business, you’re probably wondering something. What is the distinction between motion graphics and animations, and which do you require?
Motion graphics are essentially a type of animation. It encompasses a wide range of styles that make static imagery more dynamic. Motion graphics, on the other hand, is a small subset of graphic animations that only deals with animating 2D graphics. The previous statement means that, for the most part, the debate over motion graphics vs. animation is pointless.
Motion graphics, on the other hand, allow you to animate and add movement to simple graphic designs such as shapes. Unlike animation, which is used to enhance a video’s narrative, motion graphics are used to create a visually appealing experience.
Let’s take a look at what distinguishes motion graphics from animation but first, let’s get to know what motion graphics and animations are…
What Exactly Are Motion Graphics?
The goal of motion graphics is straightforward: to animate simple, two-dimensional static designs in order to incorporate movement into them. This makes them more dynamic and, as a result, visually appealing. The goal is to increase the visual impact but does nothing to advance the narrative.
Do you want a static banner on your website to unroll when someone hovers their mouse over it? You can use motion graphics to accomplish this. Do you want the menus to appear when you hover over them? Again! Use motion graphics.
Do you want to make a moving character avatar? That will not be possible with motion graphics. Character animations, will be used instead. If the animated images tell a story or add to the narrative in some way, they are not motion graphics.
What are the Different Kinds of Motion Graphics?
For marketers looking to enhance and improve the impact of their brands, motion graphics is an excellent tool. There are several types of video motion graphics examples, such as:
- Videos that explain things
- Instructional videos and walkthroughs
- User interface animation
- Logos that change dynamically
- Icons that change dynamically
- Page titles that are animated
- Infographics that are animated
- Presentations
- Motion graphics broadcasting
Why Motion Graphics?
The question now is, why should we choose motion graphics in the first place? Especially if they don’t advance the plot? There are several reasons why you should include motion graphics in your projects:
- Ideas are transformed into visual cues by motion graphics. Many people work better with visual aids than with a mental website alone. And the more large or complex the picture, the more difficult it is to visualize. Motion graphics serve as visual cues, aiding in the visualization and comprehension of the concept.
- The simple style is visually appealing to everyone. Cartoon-style animated characters may appear too casual for corporate purposes. In those cases, motion graphics can be used to add a visual break to an otherwise dull corporate presentation, making it more interesting.
What Exactly Is Animation?
The term “animation” is a parent term. It has been around for over a century and encompasses many techniques, including motion graphics. It has evolved over time.
In essence, animations encompass everything that transforms static objects into dynamic ones. CGI, Claymation, paper-animation, cartoons, and even a mix of different types of videos are included. For example, most motion graphics today are created using CGI. That is, they combine two different types of animation, putting an end to the debate over motion graphics vs. animation.
What are the Different Types of Animation?
Animation is a catch-all term for a variety of dynamic graphics techniques used to create various types of animation, including:
- The fundamentals of animation
- 2D animation refers to two-dimensional animation.
- 3D animation refers to three-dimensional animation.
- Animation in stop-motion
- Finally, there’s motion graphics.
Why Should You Choose Animations?
The goal of motion graphics is to add movement to static shapes, images, and text. Examples include using transition animations to bring content such as infographics or banners to life, among other things. The animation, on the other hand, is:
It is a method of telling your story in an interesting way. This enables you to craft a narrative that appeals to your target audience. It offers better value for money. Motion graphics are typically less difficult to create than advanced animations.
That means they are also less expensive. However, if you want realistic imagery for your products, be prepared to spend a little more.
What Differentiates Motion Graphics From Animation?
The majority of people believe that motion graphics and animation can be used interchangeably. However, while motion graphics may be referred to as animations, doing so is not technically correct.
As previously stated, the term animation encompasses a wide range of techniques, including motion graphics. To achieve the desired visuals, advanced graphics frequently necessitate the use of motion graphics and other methods. Furthermore, they both adhere to the 12 principles of animation.
That means there is a strong connection between the two terms. So much so that most people don’t care to distinguish between the two. Nonetheless, the following are some of the most common motion graphics vs. animation debates.
- Motion graphics videos typically feature a combination of shapes, text, and images on the screen. The storyline is enhanced by detailed animated characters in advanced animation. It means that motion graphics are easier to create and design. Advanced graphics, on the other hand, are more difficult to design and implement.
- Advanced animations create an exciting and engaging story to entice viewers. However, motion graphics have no story or narrative to tell. Motion graphics are used when you want to improve the look of your animations without changing the message.
- Motion graphics are frequently used in place of live-action footage. Advanced animations are typically comprised of standalone imagery over a completely computer-generated background. Title cards before a show, or stats and scores displayed during a football game, are both examples of motion graphics in action.
- The most important distinction between the two is the dimension difference between motion graphics and animation. Motion graphics are generally used for two-dimensional images, whereas animation can refer to either 2D or 3D animations. That is a significant distinction. The main reason we can’t use “motion graphics” instead of “animation.”
The Bottom Line
There is a lot of overlapping observed between motion graphics and animation. As previously stated, the entire motion graphics vs. animation debate boils down to minor distinctions between related terms.
Regardless of the type of animation you use, whether it’s motion graphics or another type of animation, the end result should serve its intended purpose. The goal should be to create videos that appeal to the consumer and tell them your story. As a result, any animated video that meets that criteria are a well-designed animation.
Assume you’re looking for high-quality animations for your business. In that case, Video Explainers is your best bet. Our motion graphics explainer video services can assist you in creating videos for all aspects of your company with the help of our creative animated explainer video experts. Contact us when you’re ready!