Content On The Move: Motion Graphics are Everywhere

Design is a field that almost everyone has heard of, but most people have a hard time defining it in explicit terms. Is design art? Computer graphics? User Interface? Marketing and branding?

Ultimately, the answer to all of the above questions is simply, “yes.” The field of design is incredibly expansive, and design influences a vast array of industries, from the most artistic and creative to the most technical and scientific. 

As our world changes and technology advances, the field of design grows and expands to accommodate new mediums and applications. One of the most recent and fastest growing design trends is the field of motion graphics. Motion graphics are exactly what they sound like, moving graphics that have applications in video game design, cinematography, commercials, tutorial videos, and more. If you are a graphic designer, or work in an adjacent field, motion graphics may very well be the next step in your career.

Motion graphics portfolio published on Issuu, demonstrating tutorial style graphics:

How Are Motion Graphics Used

Let’s take a closer look at what exactly motion graphics are, what they are used for, and how you can expand your design portfolio and expertise to include this rapidly growing sector.

As Katy French mentions in 5 Reasons Motion Graphics Help You Connect With People, motion graphics “may include audio, voiceover, or sound effects. They may also incorporate technology like 360-degree video, Virtual Reality, or Augmented Reality. But you’re probably most familiar with them as animated videos.” Motion graphics can be seen in a variety of mediums, ranging from tv commercials, feature length films, video game design, tutorial videos, and general content creation for branding and marketing purposes.

Motion graphics as seen in the advertising space:

Develop A Motion Graphics Portfolio

For new entrants into the design field and for long time graphic designers alike, motion graphics are most likely going to be an important part of your future. Even if you do not have an explicit education in motion graphics, you can still find a variety of opportunities that will allow you to become proficient in this new medium. There are a plethora of free online resources that can provide you with the basics you need to get started, including classes, blogs, and online tutorials. Experimentation with software including Adobe After Effects, Cinema 4D, Final Cut Pro, and Adobe Premier Pro is also key when working to develop the technique and experience necessary to become skilled in motion graphics. Over time developing a strong portfolio in motion graphics design work is an attainable goal, regardless of where you are in your design career. 

The world of graphic design is a fast paced and thrilling industry, filled with constant innovation. Developing motion graphics skills can help you take your content to the next level and provide you with the advantages necessary to propel your design career forward.