Video Animation
Video animation has changed how businesses and content creators communicate their messages. From video marketing campaigns and explainer videos to immersive entertainment experiences, animation breathes life into ideas and engages audiences.
This guide will walk you through finding and hiring top video animators for your project.
What is a video animator?
A video animator creates moving images through various animation techniques. They create dynamic visual content for a wide range of purposes.
Video animators use specialized animation software and techniques to create 2D or 3D animations, often combining artistic skills with technical expertise to produce high-quality animated content.
They may work independently as an animation freelancer or as part of an animation studio.
Importance of video animation
Video animation offers several benefits, making it a valuable tool for businesses and content creators.
- Increased engagement. Animated content captures and holds the viewer’s attention more effectively than static images or text.
- Simplification of complex ideas. Animation can break down complicated concepts into easily digestible visual narratives.
- Brand differentiation. Custom animations can help your brand stand out in a crowded market.
- Versatility. Animation can be used across various platforms, from social media to corporate presentations.
- Cost-effective production. Compared to live-action video, animation can be more budget-friendly, especially for scenarios that would be expensive or impossible to film.
- Timelessness. Animated content can have a longer shelf life and be more easily updated than live-action videos.
6 steps to hire a video animator
Follow these steps to find and hire the right video animator for your project.
- Define your project requirements. Outline the scope, style, and purpose of your animation project.
- Research different types of animation. Familiarize yourself with various techniques, such as 2D, 3D, stop-motion animation, or whiteboard animation, to determine which best suits your needs.
- Set a budget. Determine how much you’re willing to spend on the project, considering the complexity and duration of the animation.
- Create a detailed job post. Write a comprehensive project description, including all necessary details and requirements.
- Review portfolios. Look at potential candidates’ previous work to assess their style and skill set.
- Finalize the contract. Once you’ve picked an animator, create a detailed agreement covering all aspects of the project, including revisions and rights to the final product.
How to write an effective animator job post
A well-crafted job post can help you attract the right talent. Here’s how to structure your post.
Job post title
Choose a clear and specific title that accurately reflects the role and project. Examples include:
- 2D explainer video animator needed for tech startup
- Experienced 3D character animator for mobile game project
- Motion graphics designer for corporate video series
- Whiteboard animation expert for educational content
- Full-time 3D animator for product visualization team
Project description
Provide a comprehensive overview of your project, including:
- The purpose and target audience of the animation
- Desired style and tone
- Length of the final product
- Any specific themes or messages to be conveyed
- Technical requirements (e.g., file formats, resolution)
Example: “We’re seeking a talented 2D animator to create a two-minute animated explainer video for our new productivity app. The animation should have a modern, minimalist style and a friendly tone for young professionals. The final video should communicate the app’s key features and benefits.”
Responsibilities
List the key tasks the animator will be expected to perform, such as:
- Develop storyboards and animatics based on the provided script
- Create character designs and backgrounds as needed
- Animate characters and elements using industry-standard software
- Collaborate with the voiceover artist and sound designer
- Incorporate feedback and make revisions as required
- Deliver final animation files in specified formats
- Assist with video editing and post-production tasks as needed
- Create and manipulate 3D models for product visualizations or character animations
- Design and animate promotional materials for marketing campaigns
Qualifications
Outline the skills and experience you’re looking for. For example:
- Proven experience in 2D or 3D animation or motion graphics (specify as needed)
- Proficiency in relevant software (e.g., Adobe After Effects, Maya, Blender)
- Strong storytelling and visual communication skills
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
- Excellent time management and organization skills
- Portfolio demonstrating a range of animation styles and techniques
- Familiarity with current animation trends and best practices
- 3 to 5 years of experience in professional animation (adjust based on your needs)
- Experience creating and manipulating 3D models
- Knowledge of video production workflows and best practices
What to know before hiring a freelance video animator
Before you start the hiring process, it’s important to understand the following aspects of video animation.
What does a video animator do?
Video animators bring static images and concepts to life through movement. Their role encompasses a wide range of tasks, from conceptualizing and storyboarding ideas to creating and manipulating digital assets. They apply various animation techniques to create fluid motion, add special effects and transitions, and ensure the final product aligns with the client’s vision and technical specifications.
In addition to core animation tasks, video animators often collaborate with other team members such as writers, voice actors, and sound designers. They may assist with video production and post-production tasks, create and rig 3D models for use in animations, and design promotional materials for marketing campaigns.
Hiring demand
The demand for video animators continues growing as businesses recognize the value of animated content. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of special effects artists and animators is projected to grow 8% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Common video animator projects
Video animators work on a wide variety of projects, including:
- Animated explainer videos. These short, engaging videos break down complex ideas in an easily digestible format.
- Character animation for video games. Animators bring game characters to life, creating realistic movements and expressions that enhance player immersion.
- Motion graphics for television shows or commercials. These eye-catching animated elements add visual interest to broadcasts and help convey information quickly.
- VFX for live-action films or TV shows. Visual effects animators create realistic effects that blend with live-action footage.
- Logo animation and brand elements. Animated logos and brand elements add dynamism to corporate identities, making them more memorable and engaging.
- Music videos with animated sequences. Animators create visually striking and often surreal sequences that complement and enhance musical performances.
- Video ads for digital marketing campaigns. These short, attention-grabbing animations help businesses stand out in crowded social media feeds and websites.
- Whiteboard animation for presentations or tutorials. This style simplifies complex topics through hand-drawn illustrations that unfold as if drawn on a whiteboard.
- Promo videos for upcoming events or product launches. These generate buzz and excitement by offering sneak peeks or highlighting key features of upcoming releases or events.
Industries that hire video animators
Video animators are in demand across various industries:
- Advertising and marketing agencies
- Film and television production companies
- Video game developers
- E-learning and educational technology firms
- Corporate communications departments
- Social media and content marketing teams
- Music video production companies
- Product design and manufacturing companies
- Event planning and promotion agencies
Hiring cost
The cost of hiring an animation expert can vary widely depending on factors such as experience level, project complexity, and animation style. Upwork rates typically fall between $20 and $38 an hour.
Video animator FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about hiring video animators.
What software do professional animators use?
Professional animators use a variety of animation software depending on their specialization and the project requirements. Common tools include:
- Adobe After Effects and Adobe Animate for 2D animation and motion graphics
- Maya, Blender, or Cinema 4D for 3D design and animation
- Toon Boom Animation Harmony for 2D character animation
- Adobe Illustrator for vector graphics and asset creation
- Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing and post-production
- Adobe Photoshop for texture creation and image editing
- ZBrush or Mudbox for detailed 3D sculpting and texturing
How long does it take to create an animated video?
The timeline for creating an animated video varies depending on its length, complexity, and style. A 30-second 2D animation might take two to four weeks, while a complex 3D animated short could take several months.
Discuss timelines with your animator during the planning phase.
What are the different types of animation?
There are several types of animation, each with its own unique characteristics and applications.
- 2D animation. Traditional or digital animation in a two-dimensional space
- 3D animation. Computer-generated animation in a three-dimensional space
- Stop-motion animation. Physical objects are moved and photographed frame by frame
- Motion graphics. Animated graphic design elements, often used in title sequences or infographics
- Whiteboard animation. Hand-drawn style animations on a white background
- Cutout animation. Characters and objects made from paper or digital cutouts
- Rotoscoping. Tracing over live-action footage to create animated sequences
- 3D modeling and animation. Creating and animating detailed 3D models for product visualization or character animation
Find the right freelance animator on Upwork
Don’t wait to start creating engaging animated content. Post your video animation job on Upwork today and connect with skilled professionals who can bring your vision to life. Sign up for Upwork and post a job today.