What Is Motion Design?

Motion design is a discipline that employs visual effects and animation to apply graphic designs in video production and filmmaking. Motion designers are trained in traditional graphic design, then learn to integrate sound, space, and time in their skillset. Learn more about this rapidly growing field.

Motion Designers

Motion designers invoke movement in their creations using different cinematic techniques like animations and visual effects. These artists learn how to animate graphics as they create artwork for films, the web, or television. Software companies, motion picture offices, and advertising agencies are a few potential employers who may be interested in recruiting motion design professionals. Depending on the circumstances, designers may opt for remote work arrangements in this field.

Necessary Skills for Motion Designers

Motion graphics rely heavily on 3D modeling, meaning that designers need to understand the points and connecting lines in 3D spaces. As artists work with different modeling programs, they’ll learn about polygons within these spaces. They'll also need to understand motion and timelines for different animation perspectives. Choreographing complex movements and spinning elements in multiple ways helps designers depict the changes of objects and light sources.

Motion designers need to keep tidy files containing organized layers, dependencies, and assets when working with big projects. The ability to multi-task also helps them simultaneously manage numerous project elements.

They also need to incorporate rhythm and pacing to ensure that all elements fit together seamlessly and master specific programs such as Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, and more. Enrolling in a digital design program can help an aspiring motion designer work toward these skills.

What Does the Future Hold?

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies are slowly making their way into motion design. Such interactive technology tools alter design processes, allowing artists to design concepts and create assets faster than traditional desktop software.

Delve into your creative side with a B.A. in Digital Design from Tulane School of Professional Advancement. Our degree programs provide flexible schedules and hands-on courses that allow thorough portfolio development. Start your online application today.