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 beautiful 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.
Let’s talk a little bit about what you need to push your creative career of motions graphics designer forward.
Fundamental Art Skills
Knowledge of traditional and classic art is very important and helpful during design process and can give you an opportunity to be more creative in motion design. It’s very easy to sketch your ideas on paper, instead of building their computer models, to see if they work right. Sketches are done faster, reserving a space for brainstorming a different ideas.
Anybody can learn how to use the software for sure, but for creating visually engaging motion graphics, the fundamental art skills are must.
Graphic Design Skills
Software
Fundamental art skill are must, but in this century of technology we just can’t do without software. You 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.
Solid Understanding of Animation
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. Animation in motion is not limited with few key frames. You must know fundamentals of animation and how things move. This is crucial to create an engaging and pleasant work.
An Understanding of Color Theory
Any designer should have a strong understanding of color theory, especially motion graphics designer. You should understand the psychology under color theory. Knowing how colors affect different moods and feelings in audience is crucial here. You need to convey your ideas and feelings through color. What’s the massage of chosen color set? Strength? Fury? All of these questions can determine the color pallet of your design. For example, if you are creating a motion graphics about autumn, hardly you will pick up blue, grey and white. This would make it feel like winter.
Interpersonal Communication
Interpersonal communication isn't related to your actual design skills, right? Wrong. Interpersonal communication is still just as important. Great motion designs starts 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 ideas to them in a clear and understandable way. A good motion designer must be able to explain his/her ideas to clients or employers.
What is the future of this field?
Still thinking about what you’ll get as a motion design artist? As a bonus we'll open a secret. You’ll be excited to hear that an average salary range for these creative professionals varies from $66,000 to $99,000 annually, according to The Creative Group’s 2016 Salary Guide. Tempting? We hope so!
Now that you know the essential skills every motion designer needs, take the time to develop them, which will make your motion graphics outstanding.