A fascinating modern form of animation, motion design is used in a wide variety of applications. It can make a huge difference in a video’s impact, whether by making it more engaging or simply adding visual effects that help audiences retain information.

Motion designers can be found in a wide range of industries, but some of the most common include film and video production, telecommunications, web development, and advertising. Many professionals collaborate with illustrators, photographers, and video editors to produce different types of animations.

In addition to having design chops, a successful motion designer needs strong project management skills to meet deadlines. Having an eye for storytelling is also essential, as motion design is often storyboarded before the final product is executed. Storyboards are templates that help designers map out the beats of a narrative in an easy-to-read format, and they’re helpful for ensuring that the finished product will flow smoothly and cohesively.

There are a few different paths to becoming a motion designer, and many schools offer degrees that can prepare students for this career path. Degree programs typically cover a wide array of subjects, from typography to graphic design and visual arts, and they may offer internships or capstone projects that can give students real-world experience in their chosen field. Bootcamps are another option, and they usually provide more intensive training in a shorter amount of time, often including projects that can be added to a portfolio.

Some of the most popular digital products for creating motion graphics include Adobe After Effects, Principle, Powtoon, and Wideo. While these products have different features, most offer a drag-and-drop interface that makes them easy to use for beginners. motion design