Motion graphic explainer videos are videos that use moving graphics, transitions and transformations rather than animated characters to tell the story. They’re also sometimes referred to as infographic videos. Just a caveat – this isn’t a technical definition – the term “motion graphics video” can mean different things to different people but it has emerged amongst marketers as a way to refer to this style of video being discussed here. In a general sense it refers also to the graphics you put on top of live action footage.
Why use Motion Graphic Explainer Videos?
Here are some reasons why you might consider creating this type of video rather than in another style.
- Good for complex ideas: It makes abstract and difficult concepts easy to explain.
- Professional: it’s a good option if you don’t want a style that’s too cartoony.
- Easy to execute: It’s possible to get a good result on a limited budget. In contrast, videos with characters often need all the rigging and time-consuming animation associated with characters.
We suggest that your decision be driven by your brand identity and goals for the video. For example, a more character-driven video may be good to humanize your product or get people to relate. It all depends on your goals and brand personality.
Types of Motion Graphic Explainer Videos
There are a few ways to execute these,
- 2D animation
- 3D animation
- 2D+3D animation
It’s also possible to include footage and photos, depending on your content and the creative vision for the project.
2D Motion Graphic Explainer Videos
Here below is an example of a video executed in flat 2D style.
3D Motion Graphic Explainer Videos
In these videos the objects and environments are created in 3D space. Below is an example of a tech explainer video created using 3D animation.
2D+3D Motion Graphic Explainer Videos
It is common in modern videos to combine 2D and 3D elements. Modern software makes this possible, as for example Aftereffects has the Element3D plug which works with Cinema4D software.
Infographic Explainer Videos
If you’re dealing with data or icons and simple shapes then it’s common to refer to the video as an infographic-style video. This style can be simple to execute or more advanced.
Footage and Photos
Many motion graphics style videos will also use footage and photos. This could be stock footage or original filmed footage.
A few more style ideas
Here below we’ve listed a few extra style ideas to help you with your research.
No voiceover:
Vibrant / Approachable:
Minimal:
Data Flows & Apps:
With Screens:
How long to create a motion graphics explainer video?
A motion graphics explainer video will typically take 6-13 weeks to create depending on the studio you work with, the complexity of the video, and it’s duration. It also depends a lot on how quickly you are able to give feedback in the process. The simpler types of these videos can often be created very quickly with feedback rounds taking the majority or a big chunk of the production time.
Motion graphic explainer video examples
We already shared quite a few examples with your above, but you can also visit our portfolio for more inspiration. Another great place to find ideas is YouTube. Checkout out the Motion Graphics playlist on YouTube for some more examples.
What other options are there?
If you want a professional, clean look but you don’t like animation then there are a few options for you. For example, you could use live-action or live-action stock footage. You should also have a look at our list of explainer video styles.
