If you’ve worked in marketing in recent years, you’ve likely encountered 2D animation videos, particularly in the science field. These videos are excellent for explaining complex subjects in a way that’s both understandable and engaging. Plus, they’re versatile and often more budget-friendly than other forms of media.
Yet, not everyone knows what goes into creating these videos. If you’re planning a new product launch and have hired a third party to produce an animated video showcasing its features, you might be wondering what comes next. How much involvement is needed from your side, and what sort of timeline should you anticipate?
How is a 2D Animation Video Made?
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Although 2D animation projects vary in scope and complexity, the 2D Animation Process typically follows a consistent sequence of steps. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to the workflow:
Planning
Once the topic to be illustrated is determined or the basic story concept is outlined, the initial step involves a planning meeting to discuss the voiceover script. This script will define the content and pacing of the animation, and it’s crucial because it usually contains most of the technical information. Reviewing and agreeing on the script at this stage is critical to avoid complications later, as even minor changes to the content or flow can require significant reworking of animation sequences and transitions. Proper planning from the outset ensures a smoother overall production process.
In addition to the voiceover script, we often create wireframes, collect references from online sources, or produce basic hand-drawn sketches to visually represent how each section of the script will be animated. These initial graphical representations are usually quite simple, but they help everyone align on the visual direction before moving forward.
2D Storyboarding
Once the voiceover script is close to completion and we have a clear vision for each section of the animation, we begin the storyboard process. In a 2D Animation Studio Malaysia, this involves creating the backgrounds, products, characters, and text styles. We make a storyboard with fully designed still frames to show how they will appear in the final video. This step allows you to provide feedback on the overall visual style before we move into the core animation process.
If the project is complex, a 2D Animation Agency Malaysia might create only part of the storyboard (about 10-12 frames) to minimize rework. This approach lets you offer feedback on the key elements before they complete the entire storyboard, which can be 20-30+ frames, depending on the video’s length.
Stills and Animation
The next stage in the 2D Animation Process involves creating the visual stills and choosing background music. During this step, the studio collects visual references and example images for inspiration. Your company’s brand guidelines and other visual elements are incorporated to ensure a consistent look throughout the animation.
Using software like Adobe After Effects, the studio produces the initial draft of the animation video. This draft will be the basis for the final product, but you’ll have a chance to review and request changes.
Final Feedback
You have up to two rounds of feedback and drafts, which allows for a total of three versions of the video, including the original draft. This ensures that the final video meets your expectations and requirements.
Deliverables
Upon completion, the final video is delivered to you as an mp4 file, giving you control over where it is hosted and complete ownership of the video’s analytics and viewership data. The 2D Animation Studio Malaysia retains the project files in its archives, which can be revisited later if you need modifications. If you have in-house capabilities, the studio can also share these files with you.
Additionally, a 2D Animation Agency in Malaysia can provide digital sales and marketing support to help you create a unique promotional package that suits your needs and budget.
Why Choose 2D Animation Over Other Video Formats for Product Promotion?
Here are several reasons why 2D animation can be the ideal choice for promoting products, particularly in situations where live-action footage isn’t practical. In scenarios where the product doesn’t physically exist yet or is difficult to access, 2D animation provides a flexible solution. This is especially beneficial for industries with restricted environments, such as pharmaceutical labs or aerospace, where physical access for filming is challenging. Instead of live-action, 2D animation allows you to create accurate visualizations based on product prototypes or concepts.
Moreover, 2D animation steps offer great flexibility in terms of creativity and adaptation. If you have a product prototype, you can use 2D animation to depict it in a way that captures its essence without the need for a finished product. This approach is especially useful for early product launches, allowing you to market the product effectively even before it goes into production.
In cases where a quick turnaround is essential, 2D motion graphics animation can be a great solution. By combining stock footage, existing product imagery, and brand assets, you can create shorter animations more quickly, without having to design everything from scratch. This not only reduces production time but also lowers costs.
2D animation also has the advantage of being more adaptable for changing product designs. When a product undergoes frequent design updates, 2D animation can be easily adjusted through animatics, whereas live-action videos would require a complete reshoot. This adaptability, made possible through different 2D animation steps, means you don’t have to create new video projects every time there’s a slight modification in your product.
Finally, the consistency in branding and messaging achieved through 2D animation is noteworthy. The same characters, scenes, and visual elements can be used repeatedly across different marketing campaigns, creating a unified brand identity. By following these 2D animation steps, you can create engaging content that aligns with your brand’s voice and vision.
How to Make the Most of 2D Animation Videos?
2D animation is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts. It can be incorporated into product videos, with snippets extracted to explain specific elements in broader video projects. Additionally, 2D animation can enhance your website’s homepage and serve as engaging content for social media platforms. The key is to embed it throughout your marketing materials—whether on product pages, within application notes, or any other suitable location. By integrating 2D animation across your digital presence, you can effectively capture and retain audience attention.
Contact us to discover how 2D animation videos are created. Our team of experts can provide you with insights into the process. If you’d like to know more about our expertise in crafting high-quality animations, contact us. We transform your concepts into captivating visuals. If you’re considering a project or want more details about our services, contact us. We’re eager to bring your ideas to life with skill and creativity.