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What does a Motion Graphics Designer do?

A motion graphic designer is a person who creates custom graphics, title sequences, kinetic typography, bespoke illustrations, and animations for a diverse array of media that facilitates effective knowledge transfer. As a motion graphics designer, you’ll also be responsible for designing engaging motion graphics for video deliverables (like film projects and event promotions) and for encoding and editing videos, as well as adding effects to enhance motion graphics.

Motion graphic designers usually work with content and creative teams to thoroughly understand project scope and objectives. They play an active role in contributing to collaborative brainstorms and concept development. Senior motion graphics designers may even be required to support the Director of Media with internal and external activity to promote the department’s products or services.

What skills do I need to become a Motion Graphics Designer?

Motion graphics designer skills may vary from project to project. Below are some of the essential skills that motion graphics designers need in order to excel in this career path:

• Ability to solve an array of challenges through visual design
• Demonstrated skills using design software and technologies, particularly Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop
• Experience with video editing software, such as Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro for interactive video content and visual effects (VFX)
• Technical skills, like Cinema 4D, are desirable (with basic 3D modeling and texturing skills)
• An in-depth understanding of the principles of motion and the ability to tell stories and communicate visually
• Able to work within brand guidelines and create original looks and styles (design, layout, typography, and color theory)
• Ability to comprehend and uphold brand style guidelines, producing work of a suitable style
• Fundamental knowledge of Autodesk Maya is a plus
• Soft skills, including a high level of creativity, efficiency while working on multiple projects simultaneously, and an eagerness to collaborate across disciplines with team members at all levels
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaborate with a team
• Conceptual thinker and visual problem solver
• Highly organized in workflow and post-production processes

What are the core Motion Graphics Designer job responsibilities?

The day-to-day job responsibilities of a motion graphics designer include:

• Work with illustrators, designers, and instructional designers to understand the project scope and objectives
• Assist in the creation of animation storyboards and design 2D and 3D animation video
• Produce scripts to translate a brief or supplied messaging into an effective narrative
• Support internal marketing and sales activities to promote the company, such as creating animations for social media and the company website
• Edit pre-recorded videos for upload to video platforms, such as Vimeo and YouTube, and ensure synchronization of frames and audio
• Design internal communications and templates for presentations and newsletters
• Participate in the conceptual phases of the project life cycle, including ideation of how to align written scientific content with available time and resources to bring the most exciting outcomes to client projects
• Work with art and creative teams to understand project scope and objectives, and actively contribute to the creative brainstorm/development process.

Should I get a Motion Graphics Designer degree or certification?

Earning a degree or a professional certification may help you stand out:

• Bachelor's degree in graphic design, web design, marketing, fine arts, or a related field
• Online tutorials like ‘Introduction to Adobe After Effects: Getting Started with Motion Graphics’ and ‘Introduction to Cinema 4D: A Beginner's Animation Guide’ are great sources for learning motion graphics