So you’ve decided to bring motion into your project—brilliant choice! But now you’re wondering what it’s actually like to work with a motion designer. Whether this is your first animation project or you’re looking to improve the process, let’s demystify the journey from concept to completion.
Understanding the Motion Design Partnership
Think of working with a motion designer as commissioning an architect for your dream house. You know what you want to achieve, but you might not know all the technical steps to get there. That’s perfectly normal. My role isn’t just to create animations—it’s to guide you through the process, ensuring your vision comes to life effectively.
The Journey: From Idea to Animation
Let’s break down what you can expect when working on your motion project:
1. The Brief: Setting the Foundation
The most successful projects start with clear communication. You don’t need technical knowledge—just an understanding of your goals. Be prepared to discuss:
- Your project’s purpose
- Target audience
- Brand guidelines
- Timeline requirements
- Budget parameters
Think of this stage as laying the groundwork for success. The more context you can provide, the better the final result will be.
2. Strategy and Conceptualisation
Once we’ve established your needs, I’ll develop a creative strategy that aligns with your goals. This is where your project starts taking shape. As I explored in my article about animation principles, every movement needs purpose. We’ll discuss:
- Visual style options
- Animation approaches
- Technical considerations
- Timeline milestones
3. The Creation Process
This is where the magic happens, but it’s not a black box. I believe in keeping you informed throughout the journey. You’ll receive regular updates and, depending on the project scope, you might see:
- Style frames
- Storyboards
- Rough animations
- Progress renders
4. Feedback and Refinement
Your input is crucial at specific stages. To make feedback most effective:
- Collect thoughts from all stakeholders before sharing
- Be specific about what works and what doesn’t
- Consider the project goals when evaluating
- Trust the process—sometimes elements need context
Making the Most of Our Collaboration
Here are some pro tips for a smooth project:
Clear Communication Channels
- Establish preferred communication methods early
- Define who makes final decisions on your end
- Keep feedback consolidated and clear
- Ask questions whenever you’re unsure
Understanding Timelines
Remember my frame rates article? Just as animation speed affects viewer perception, project pacing affects results. Allow time for:
- Creative exploration
- Technical development
- Review cycles
- Refinements
Budget Considerations
Be upfront about budget constraints. This helps me:
- Suggest appropriate solutions
- Prioritise elements
- Manage resources effectively
- Avoid scope creep
Common Questions Answered
“How much input will I have?” You’ll have crucial input at key stages, particularly during initial planning and feedback rounds. Think of it as a collaborative journey where your insights help shape the direction.
“What if I’m not sure what I want?” That’s completely normal. Part of my job is helping you explore possibilities and find the right solution. We’ll look at references, discuss options, and find an approach that matches your goals.
“How technical do I need to be?” Not at all! Your expertise is in your business—let me handle the technical side. Just be ready to share your goals and vision clearly.
Moving Forward Together
Remember, every great motion project is a partnership. Your industry knowledge combined with my technical expertise creates something neither of us could achieve alone. The key is open communication, clear expectations, and trust in the process.
