Introduction to the Animated Explainer videos
In communication, there has been a rise in the use of Animated Explainer videos to convey information and captivate audiences. If you want to create such a video yourself, you’ve come to the right place. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to produce an explainer video.
So, what is an Animated explainer video? It can be described as a concise and engaging video that simplifies and clarifies concepts, products, or services. These videos utilize elements, narration, and sometimes even humor to break down ideas or offerings into easily understandable segments.
The significance of explainer videos in today’s fast-paced and information-rich world cannot be emphasized enough. Whether you aim to promote your business, educate your audience, or enhance your presence, explainer videos can genuinely make a difference. They grab attention effectively, improve comprehension levels, and ensure retention of the presented information.
This article serves as your roadmap towards creating your captivating Animated explainer video. We will delve into aspects such as planning, design considerations, scripting techniques, and animation approaches in the voiceover selection process for production purposes. By the end of this journey, you will possess the knowledge and tools to create a visually striking explainer video.
Let’s delve into the process and uncover the secrets of creating an animated explainer video, taking it one step at a time. Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, educator, or simply someone who loves creativity, this guide is designed to assist you in achieving success in animated communication.
Step 1: Planning Your Animated Explainer Video
Creating an animated explainer video starts with a solid plan. This phase is the foundation of your project, and careful preparation will save you time and frustration later on. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Identify Your Target Audience:
Set Clear Objectives:
Define what you want to achieve with your video. Whether it’s increasing sales, explaining a complex concept, or raising brand awareness, having clear goals will guide your entire project.
Craft a Compelling Script:
Your script is the heart of your explainer video. Keep it concise and engaging. Address the problem, present your solution, and end with a strong call to action. Free or low-cost scriptwriting software like Celtx or Trelby can be immensely helpful.
Design a Storyboard:
A storyboard is like a visual script. It’s a series of sketches or images that outline each scene in your video. Tools like Storyboard That or Canva can assist you in creating a professional-looking storyboard.
Choose the Right Animation Style For Your Animated Explainer videos
Your animation style should match your brand and message. Explore what suits your goals best, from 2D and 3D Animation to whiteboard or stop-motion. Software like Vyond or Powtoon can make the animation process more accessible.
How ever, these are the Three Best Styles and examples that can help you better understand the possibilities for your explainer video:
2D Character Animation:
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- Example: “Google Maps” explainer video.
- Style: This video uses colorful 2D character animation with a humorous and relatable tone. It features quirky characters and a straightforward narrative to explain the product and its benefits.
3D Animation:
- Example: Pixar’s “Luxo Jr.” short film.
- Style: Pixar is renowned for its high-quality 3D Animation. “Luxo Jr.” showcases storytelling through character movements and expressions, using advanced 3D techniques to evoke emotions in the audience.
Motion Graphics:
- Example: “Spotify Wrapped” annual recap videos.
- Style: Spotify’s “Wrapped” videos utilize motion graphics to present personalized music statistics in a visually appealing way. This technique is data-driven and highly informative.
Other Common Styles For Animated Explainer Videos:
You saw the three most typical styles. Also, you can find other styles on the web. Bellow I list for you the different common styles:
Stop-Motion Animation:
- An example is Laika’s “Coraline” movie.
- Style: Stop-motion animation involves physically manipulating real-world objects to create motion. “Coraline” uses this technique to create a unique, dark, and fantastical world, complementing the eerie story.
Claymation:
- Wallace and Gromit’s short film “The Wrong Trousers” is an example.
- Style: Claymation involves shaping characters and objects from clay and animating them frame by frame. “The Wrong Trousers” combines humor, suspense, and creativity using this method.
Anime/Manga Style:
- An example is “My Neighbor Totoro” by Studio Ghibli.
- Style: Studio Ghibli is known for its distinct anime style. “My Neighbor Totoro” combines beautiful hand-drawn Animation with a heartwarming story, creating a unique emotional experience.
Cutout Animation:
- An example is the “South Park” TV series.
- Style: “South Park” uses cutout animation with paper-like characters. It’s known for its satirical and irreverent storytelling, making it a great example of using a specific animation style to convey a unique tone.
Infographic Animation:
- Example: “The Story of Stuff” by Annie Leonard.
- Style: This style combines motion graphics and data visualization to explain complex topics concisely. “The Story of Stuff” uses this approach to discuss environmental issues.
Pixilation:
- An example is “Neighbours” by Norman McLaren.
- Style: Pixilation involves using real people as stop-motion characters. “Neighbours” is a classic example of using humans to create surreal and humorous scenarios.
These examples demonstrate the wide range of animation styles and storytelling techniques available. When creating your explainer video, consider the message you want to convey and the emotions you want to evoke, and then choose the style that best aligns with your goals.
Select Appropriate Software/Tools:
Depending on your chosen animation style, pick the right software or tools. Adobe After Effects and Toon Boom are fantastic options for 2D animation, while Blender is excellent for 3D animation.
Create a Production Timeline for Each Animated Explainer video:
Outline a schedule that covers scriptwriting, storyboarding, animation, voiceovers, and editing. Tools like Trello or Asana can help you manage your project timeline effectively.
Assemble a Talented Team:
If your project is extensive, consider collaborating with experienced animators, scriptwriters, and voiceover artists. Websites like Upwork or Fiverr can connect you with freelancers who specialize in explainer video creation.
By following these steps, you’re well on your way to crafting a compelling animated explainer video. Remember, thorough planning sets the stage for a smooth production process and a video that genuinely resonates with your audience. Don’t hesitate to use the recommended tools and resources to make your journey more manageable and successful.
Step 2: Pre-production Stage Of Animated Explainer videos
The pre-production stage is where you set the stage for your animated explainer video, and getting it right is essential for a smooth production process. Let’s break down what you need to do:
Animated Explainer video Budget Wisely:
Script Review:
Your script is the foundation of your video. It should be clear, concise, and engaging. Consider using online proofreading tools like Grammarly to check for grammar and spelling errors. A well-written script is essential for conveying your message effectively.
Storyboard Preparation:
A storyboard is a visual representation of your script. It breaks down your video into scenes and helps you plan the visual aspects. Tools like Storyboard That or Canva provide templates and tools to create professional storyboards.
Voiceover Casting:
Finding the right voiceover artist is crucial. Websites like Voices.com and Fiverr have vast selections of talent. Listen to samples to ensure their voice aligns with your brand’s tone and the message you want to convey. A well-matched voiceover can significantly impact the overall quality of your video.
You’re setting yourself up for a successful animated explainer video by meticulously addressing these pre-production steps. Don’t hesitate to use the recommended tools and resources to make your pre-production stage efficient and effective. With careful planning, your video will be well on its way to captivating your audience and achieving your goals.
Step 3: Designing Your Characters and Assets For Animated Explainer videos
In the world of animated explainer videos, the look and feel of your characters and assets play a pivotal role in conveying your message. Let’s delve into this crucial aspect and explore the steps you need to take:
Character Design and Development:
Your characters are the central figures in your explainer video. It’s crucial to design characters that match your target audience and convey your message effectively. Tools like Adobe Character Animator and Toon Boom Harmony offer character design options. These programs provide pre-made templates and allow customization. If you lack artistic skills, consider hiring a professional illustrator through platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to create unique characters that align with your brand.
Storyboard Reference:
Your storyboard, which you created during the pre-production stage, serves as your visual guide for designing characters and assets. It outlines the scenes in which these elements appear, ensuring that your designs align with your script and message.
Consistency is Key For Each Animated Explainer video:
Consistency is a fundamental principle in design. Characters, backgrounds, and icons should all conform to the same style, ensuring they appear harmonious in the same video. This cohesiveness is essential for a professional and polished final product.
Customization Tools:
Many animation software tools offer the advantage of character and asset customization. These tools come with libraries of pre-made elements that can be tailored to your specific needs. Adobe Character Animator, for example, provides an extensive library of characters and assets that you can personalize to fit your project.
Revisions and Feedback:
Invite input and feedback during the design phase. Share your character and asset designs with team members or collaborators. Be open to adjustments and improvements that enhance the visual appeal and alignment with your message.
Resources and Templates:
Online resources and templates are valuable for speeding up the design process. Websites like GraphicRiver and Envato Elements offer pre-designed characters and assets that you can modify to suit your project. These resources can save you time and effort while maintaining a professional look.
Asset Creation (Backgrounds, Objects, Icons):
Effective character and asset design are crucial to creating an engaging and informative explainer video. By utilizing the recommended tools and resources, you can simplify the design process and produce visuals that effectively convey your message and captivate your audience. Your characters and assets should complement your script and voiceover, creating a cohesive and visually appealing narrative.
In addition to characters, your video needs backgrounds, objects, and icons to build a complete visual story. For those not adept at artistry, various online platforms, such as Shutterstock and Freepik, offer a wealth of royalty-free assets that can be integrated into your video. Adobe Illustrator, a vector-based software, is another tool that enables you to design and customize your own assets.
Most Common Questions Of Animated Explainer Videos - FAQ's
1. How can I create Animated videos to promote my product or service?
To create Animated videos to promote your product or service, first determine the purpose of your ad. Then, develop a conceptual and attractive story that demonstrates the needs and benefits of your product or service well. Then, it would be best to decide whether to use a professional studio or animation software. In the next step, the video is created according to the story and is accompanied by appropriate sound and music. Once you’ve made your video, optimize it for publication on your website and social networks, and publish it on advertising platforms.
Finally, use analytics tools to measure video performance and make necessary improvements. These steps will help you create compelling Animated videos to promote your product or service.
Level | Short Description |
---|---|
1. Goal setting [Targeting] | Determining the goals and expectations of advertising: introducing, informing, selling, etc. |
2. Edit the story [Storytelling] | Creating a conceptual and attractive story that responds to the needs and benefits of your product. |
3. Choose a Studio or tool | Deciding whether to use a professional studio or animation software. |
4. Create Animation | Making videos according to the desired story and content. |
5. Add sound and music | Add appropriate narration and music to the video. |
6. Optimization | Adjust video for publishing on different platforms and improve video quality. |
7. Publishing and advertising | Publish videos on the website, social networks, and advertising platforms. |
8. Measurement and improvement | Use analytics tools to measure and improve video performance. |
2. What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of using Animated videos in online marketing?
Using Animated videos in online marketing can have various advantages and disadvantages. These features, which are the advantages and disadvantages, depend on the purpose and identity of your brand. Therefore, you should be patient in determining the goal of your business and carefully examine the items.
Here Read Some of Them in the following table:
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
1. Attracting attention: Animated videos attract the audience’s attention due to their attractive design and high visual appeal. | 1. Production cost: Creating Animated videos can be expensive and require time and resources. |
2. Simplicity in conveying the message: Animated videos can explain complex concepts simply and understandably. | 2. Need for expertise: To create quality Animated videos, you need expertise in animation and design. |
3. Brand promotion: Animations can help to promote and recognize your brand and establish a more human connection with the audience. | 3. Time required: Producing Animated videos takes time and may cause delays. |
4. Shareability: Audiences often share Animated videos more efficiently, increasing the video’s spread. | 4. Lack of flexibility: Editing in Animated videos can be complex and require more resources. |
5. Compatibility with all platforms: Animated videos are suitable for publishing on websites, social networks, blogs, and most media. | 5. Quality loss: In some cases, animations may reduce the quality of the image and sound and reduce the final effect. |
6. Increase conversion rates: Animated videos can increase conversion rates and sales and motivate your audience to take action. | 6. Need for appropriate communication: Animated videos are unsuitable for some industries and products and cannot show all aspects. |
7. Tricks and charms: Animations can show unique tricks and special treats that attract the audience. | 7. Possibility of audience fatigue: Long and endless Animated videos may tire the audience and have the opposite effect. |
3. How can I generate suitable ideas and stories for Animated videos?
To generate ideas and stories suitable for Animated videos, you can follow these steps:
- Audience research and identification: First, carefully define your target audience. Understanding their needs, problems, and interests can help you create the right story.
- Create a core message: Determine the video’s core message and what emotions should be conveyed to the audience. For example, do you want to encourage them to purchase or provide helpful information?
- Categorize the topic: Categorize the topic you want. For example, do you like to discuss new products, solutions to customer problems, or success stories?
Create characters and environment: Design the video’s characters and setting. This can add a human touch and identity to the video.
Combining video with story: Once the main idea and story are established, design the video according to the report. Use images and animations to tell the story.
Creating Story Culture: Adapt the story to a conceptual sequence. Adding the correct ambiguities and motivations can make the story interesting.
Presentation of the message: In the end, convey the main message to the audience clearly and attractively. Pay attention to the importance and attractiveness of the message.
Feedback and improvement: Show the video to your audience and get their input. Improve the story if needed.
With these methods, you can write engaging and meaningful stories for your animated videos and get your audience to interact and take action.
4. How much time should be allowed for an Animated video?
The time required for an Animated video depends on various factors, such as the purpose of the video, the content, the complexity of the animation, and the advertising strategy. This time can be variable. In general, Animated videos for online marketing are usually between 30 seconds and 2 minutes long. This time allows the audience to understand the content carefully and maintain concentration.
Shorter videos (around 30-60 seconds) are typically used to introduce a product or service quickly, shift audience attitudes, or encourage simple actions. At the same time, longer videos (e.g., 2 minutes) can be helpful for more detailed explanations or more complex storytelling.
You should also pay attention to the needs of the audience and the video publishing platform. For example, shorter videos may be preferred on social networks, while you can share longer videos on your website.
In general, the time order of the video should be as short and effective as possible so that the audience can enjoy the content and draw their attention to the video.
SEO Considerations:
Understanding the importance of SEO for video visibility, I discussed SEO strategies with the chosen agency. Incorporating relevant keywords, including “Explainer video agency,” in the video’s title, description, and tags was crucial to reaching a broader audience and enhancing the video’s impact.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best Explainer video agency for my Business was a rewarding experience. By defining my objectives, conducting extensive research, Evaluating Expertise, and considering SEO aspects, I made an informed decision. If you, too, need an Explainer video service for your Business, I invite you to visit our services page for more information. Let’s create an Engaging Explainer video that captivates your audience and drives your business forward.