Filed under: Motion Graphics | Tags: after effects, graphic designer, how to, motion designer, Motion Graphics
This list is an overview of the kind of things that are important in the world of motion graphics, there is of course much more to it than this, including how to liaise with clients and collaborate with co-workers, but this is at least a starting point.
1. Colour.
Learn as much as you can about colour theory, and understand how colours affect perception, emotion and why certain colours are used in certain situations. Also learn which colours work together in harmony and which ones never will.
2. Layout.
Learn the basics of composition, in a similar way as with photography, learning to spot what looks right and what doesn’t when many different elements are put together.
3. Typography.
Learn all there is to know about fonts, including which fonts are out there, the difference between serif and sans-serif, and when to use which fonts, in which weights to make the right level of impact.
4. Storytelling.
Learn the basics of how to tell a story to communicate an idea or a vision. This applies whether animating a simple logo, or developing a full-on short film.
5. Problem Solving.
Learn how to interpret a brief that has clear design problems to be solved, and having a process for solving those problems. Designing motion graphics without a problem to solve is like driving without a steering wheel – whilst being free and exciting, nothing of much use will ultimately be achieved.
6. Footage.
Learn about how to use and interpret footage, including a broad understanding of the technology involved and techicalities like aspect ratio, fields, and broadcast safe areas.
7. Rotoscoping.
Learn the basics of rotoscoping including masking, painting, and simple tricks like sectioning of elements to make rotoscoping people quicker and easier.
8. Tracking.
Learn how to track graphics and effects onto live action footage. After effects has some great in-built tracking software such as Mocha to help with this process. Matching grain, colour and grade is also important when incorporating graphics into footage.
9. Grading.
Learn how to add or remove colour, tone, grain and contrast from footage to fit with the brand that is being worked on, and the tone of the entire film.
10. Software.
Learn how to use the main pieces of software that make up a motion designer’s armoury, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator and some knowledge of Cinema 4D, Maya or 3D Studio Max.
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