Animated Video Company FAQ

Do you want to hire an animated video company to help you produce a custom animated video? Video Igniter has developed a comprehensive FAQ about all the different types of animated video companies you can hire to help you produce your video. We also answer popular questions like:

• What’s it like working with an animated video company?
• Where do I find an animated video company to work with?
• How do I hire an animated video company?
• What does it cost to make a video with an animated video company?
• … and more!

We’ll get started with an overview of the different types of animated video companies out there so you can get some context on the industry.

Examples of Videos You Can Get From Video Igniter’s Animated Video Company

Video Igniter can create any kind of 2D or 3D animated video for you. Check out our animation portfolio here. Request access to our demo reels and price sheet here.

Contact us or schedule a call to start making your video.

Are you looking for an example of a different style of animation? Send us a message to let us know what kind of animation example you want to see and we will follow up with relevant production samples.

 

Famous Motion Picture Animated Video Companies

These big name companies are probably outside your production budget. We’re sharing information about them so you can compare what it costs to produce a full length animated movie to what it costs to produce a shorter animated video.

Pixar Animated Video Company

Website: Pixar.com

Pixar Animation popularized 3D animated movies and brought us modern classics like Finding Nemo, Toy Story, Up and Wall-E. Pixar was originally started by George Lucas’s production company (known for the Star Wars series) and later developed into the production company you know today, thanks to the co-founder of Apple Inc., Steve Jobs.

Budget Range: $30,000,000-$200,000,000 for a feature length movie.

Walt Disney Animation Studios

Website: DisneyAnimation.com

Walt Disney Animation – the original animated movie powerhouse known around the world brought us Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, Beauty & The Beast, and other countless beloved classics. Walt Disney Animation acquired Pixar Animation in 2006 for $7.6 billion.

Budget Range: $858,000-$100,000,000 for a feature length film.

DreamWorks Animated Video Company

Website: DreamWorks.com

DreamWorks joined the world of 3D animation shortly after Pixar blew people’s minds with their rich animated visuals and timeless storytelling. DreamWorks eventually brought us famous movies like Shrek and the How To Train Your Dragon series.

Budget Range: $30,000,000-$175,000,000 for feature length films.

Studio Ghibli Animated Video Company

Website: GhibliCollection.com

Studio Ghibli is based out of Tokyo, Japan and is known for its ultra detailed hand drawn illustrations and animations. Studio Ghibli’s famous productions include: My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away.

Budget Range: $11,000,000-$34,000,000 for feature length films

Animated Video Company Marketplaces

Marketplaces are great for finding affordable freelance animators

Website: 90seconds.com

90Seconds.com is an online marketplace where you can source videographers and animators in every zipcode. You pick who you want to work with and collaborate with them online to create your video.

Budget Range: A few hundred or thousand dollars per project.

Fiverr

Website: Fiverr.com

Fiverr originally started as a website where you can find people to do something for 5 bucks. They’ve since expanded to offer more high end services including animated video production.

Budget Range: $5-$5,000+/project + transaction fees

Freelancer

Website: Freelancer.com

On Freelancer, you can find freelancers to help you complete your tasks and projects. Post a job and let people bid on your project, or you can reach out to freelancers for a quote.

Budget Range: $250-$15,000+

Thumbtack

Website: Thumbtack.com

Thumbtack is a website where you can search for local professionals to help you with everything from cleaning your house and mowing your lawn to filming a wedding video and creating an animation.

Budget Range: A few hundred or thousand dollars per project.

Boutique Animated Video Companies

Looking to hire a smaller animation studio?

Explainify

Website: Explainify.com

Explainify is an independent animation studio that specializes in creating animated explainer videos that inspire the masses.

Budget Range: Thousands -> tens of thousands of dollars per minute of animation.

YumYumVideos

Website: YumYumVideos.com

YumYumVideos is another independent animation studio you can hire to create fully customized videos.

Budget Range: Thousands to tens of thousands of dollars per minute of animation.

Epipheo

Website: Epipheo.com

Epipheo is an animated video company that makes sure your message gets understood.

Budget Range: Tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars per project.

Online Animated Video Company

If you’re looking for a way to make videos online, there are two categories of companies you can work with. One kind offers DIY production options where you create the animated video yourself using pre-created video assets.  The other enables you to work with professional animators online to create custom animated videos.

Video Igniter Animation

Website: VideoIgniter.com

Looking for the fastest and most cost effective way to produce a professional looking custom animated video? With Video Igniter, all you need to do is describe the video you want to create, pick your budget level – and we handle everything else! We create your script, storyboard, voiceover, and the illustrations for your video. You get notifications when they’re ready to review and share your feedback online. Once all the parts of your animated video are approved, we animate your video.

Budget Range: Request access to our current price sheet here.

PowToon

Website: PowToon.com

If you’re looking for a cheap way to make animated videos, look no further than PowToon! PowToon enables you to create your own animated videos online using their library of pre-created characters, scenes and objects.

Budget Range: $20-$100/month

What’s it like working with an animated video company?

Questionnaire

Production starts with a questionnaire or a phone call with the animated video company you hired. This is your opportunity to communicate what key messages you want to include in your video, what visual style the animation company should use, and who your target audience is.

Script

You can write the script for your animated video yourself using our free scriptwriting template. Or, you can hire the animated video company to create the script for you. Your scriptwriter will send you the first draft as soon as it’s ready (usually >1 week for a 1-2 minute animated video). Give it a detailed review and share your feedback with the scriptwriter so they can incorporate your revisions.

Storyboard

After the script is approved, it’s time to turn it into a storyboard for your animation. A storyboard is like the blueprint for your animated video. It tells the animated video company what to create. You can create the storyboard yourself using our free storyboard template. Or, you can hire the animated video company to create it for you. You will get an opportunity to review the storyboard and request revisions before approving it for production.

VoiceOver

After the storyboard is approved, the animated video company will help you audition voiceover talent. You will get an opportunity to hear several voices for each character in your video. Let the animated video company know which option(s) you prefer. They will oversee the recording of the full voiceover so they can ensure it uses the proper pacing, tone, and pronunciation. You will get an opportunity to review the voiceover(s) and request revisions before approving it for production.

Illustrations

Creating the art for your animated video starts with the creation of concept art. The art director for your video will review your brand guidelines, style references and select a key scene from your storyboard to illustrate with one or more unique visual styles

Review the concepts and tell the animated video company which concept you prefer. Then, the art team will create all of the illustrations for your animated video.

Give the art a detailed review and let the animated video company know if there are any revisions you want them to make. Otherwise, mark all the illustrations as approved so animation can begin!

Animation

Now that everything is approved, it’s time to animate. Animation takes about one week for each minute of animation that is being created. Longer videos can be sped up with rush delivery animation. When the first draft is ready, give it a detailed review with your internal team and members of your target audience (if available). Collect everyone’s feedback and share it with your animated video company so they can incorporate your revisions and render out the final draft.

SFX + Music

Now that the timing of your animation is locked in, the animated video company will help add a soundtrack and sound effects to help enhance the presentation of certain moments in your video. They will select a few soundtracks and let you preview them to decide which one you like best. Then, they’ll purchase the license so that you can legally use the music in your animated video.

Where can I find an animated video company to work with?

Google

VideoIgniter.com

Linkedin Jobs

Craigslist

Fiverr

Dribbble.com

In-House vs Outsourced Animation Teams: What You Should Know

When evaluating an animated video company, it’s important to understand how they structure their production team. The two most common models are in-house teams and outsourced or freelance-based teams. Each approach has unique benefits and potential drawbacks that can impact your project’s cost, quality, and timeline.

What Is An In-House Animation Team?

An in-house team is composed of full-time employees who work directly for the animated video company. This team typically includes scriptwriters, illustrators, animators, voiceover directors, and project managers all working under the same roof (or digital workspace).

Benefits of In-House Teams:

• Streamlined communication: Faster coordination and fewer delays.
• Consistent quality: Teams are trained to meet internal standards.
• Creative cohesion: Shared vision and direct collaboration lead to better storytelling.

Drawbacks:

• Higher production costs: In-house teams tend to charge more.
• Limited style options: Smaller in-house teams may have a narrow aesthetic range.

What Is an Outsourced Animation Team?

Some animated video companies rely on freelancers or external partners to complete parts—or all—of the production. These collaborators may be located anywhere in the world, working remotely to deliver specific services.

Benefits of Outsourced Teams:

• Lower costs: Companies can pass on savings from lower freelance rates.
• Scalability: Easier to handle large projects or multiple videos simultaneously.
• Access to specialized talent: Freelancers may offer niche skills or unique animation styles.

Drawbacks:

• Potential quality inconsistencies: Varying skill levels between contractors.
• Communication delays: Working across time zones can slow feedback cycles.
• Less creative alignment: Without tight collaboration, the final video may lack cohesion.

Why Team Structure Matters When Hiring an Animated Video Company

The internal structure of an animated video company affects every stage of production—from communication to revision turnaround. Ask the company whether they use an in-house or outsourced team, and consider how that might align with your expectations, timeline, and budget.

Key Factors to Consider When Hiring an Animated Video Company

Hiring an animated video company is a strategic decision that affects your brand, messaging, and ROI. With so many studios offering similar services, it’s important to know how to evaluate your options. Below are some of the most important factors to consider when selecting the right partner.

1. Portfolio and Animation Style Start by reviewing the studio’s portfolio. Does their work align with your brand’s tone and audience? A strong animated video company should showcase a diverse range of styles—from motion graphics to character animation—demonstrating both versatility and craftsmanship.

2. Experience and Industry Expertise Has the company worked with clients in your industry or on similar types of videos? Familiarity with your niche can lead to more efficient production and messaging that resonates with your target audience.

3. Transparent Pricing Pricing should be clear, detailed, and upfront. Ask for a quote that outlines all deliverables and stages of production. Be wary of vague estimates or studios that avoid discussing pricing until late in the process.

4. Production Process A well-organized animated video company will walk you through their production process, including timelines, milestones, and revision stages. This transparency sets clear expectations and helps avoid confusion down the line.

5. Communication and Project Management Pay attention to how responsive and organized the studio is. Strong communication and project management systems (like Trello or Frame.io) are signs that your project will be handled professionally.

6. Testimonials and Case Studies Look for verified reviews and detailed case studies. These can give you insights into how the studio operates and what kinds of results their videos achieve.

7. Revision Policy Every animated video company handles revisions differently. Find out how many rounds of revisions are included and how feedback is managed throughout the process. (Explore Video Igniter’s unlimited revisions policy).

Conclusion Taking time to assess these factors will help you choose an animated video company that fits your goals, budget, and working style.

Signs You’re Talking to a High-Quality Animated Video Company

It’s easy to be dazzled by flashy animation samples, but a great portfolio alone doesn’t guarantee a great experience. To find a truly reliable animated video company, look for these signs during your research and initial conversations.

1. Strong, Diverse Portfolio A reputable animated video company will proudly showcase a wide range of work. Look for videos that tell compelling stories, vary in animation styles, and show technical polish.

2. Clear Production Process Top-tier studios offer a well-documented, step-by-step breakdown of how your video will be created—from scriptwriting to animation to final delivery. This ensures transparency and sets expectations.

3. Proactive Communication Great animated video companies don’t just answer questions—they ask smart ones. They take time to understand your goals, audience, and brand before recommending creative directions.

4. Transparent Pricing and Scope They’ll provide a clear quote that outlines what’s included and what isn’t. This eliminates surprises and builds trust.

5. Client-Centric Attitude Quality studios are flexible and collaborative. They strike a balance between honoring your vision and offering expert advice when needed.

6. Quality Control and Internal Reviews Look for signs that the studio has internal QA checks in place—like storyboard approvals, draft reviews, and revision workflows.

7. Glowing Reviews and Long-Term Clients Read reviews and ask for references. Happy, repeat clients are one of the strongest indicators that a studio delivers on its promises.

Conclusion Spotting these signs early can save you time, money, and headaches—and help ensure a smooth, successful animation project.

How to Be a Great Client: Helping the Animation Team Help You

Working with an animated video company is a two-way street. While the production team handles the technical and creative heavy lifting, your input and collaboration play a crucial role in the final result. Here’s how to be a great client and help the animation team bring your vision to life.

1. Be Clear About Your Goals Before production begins, define what you want the video to achieve. Are you introducing a new product? Explaining a service? Targeting a specific type of customer? Clear goals help the team craft a message that hits the mark.

2. Provide a Solid Creative Brief The more context you give, the better. Include brand guidelines, visual references, tone preferences, and any must-have elements. A detailed brief helps the animated video company start strong and reduces back-and-forth later on.

3. Assign a Single Point of Contact Having one person responsible for giving feedback and approvals streamlines communication and avoids conflicting input.

4. Respect the Timeline Timely feedback is essential to keeping the project on track. Delays in approval or communication can throw off production and affect your launch plans.

5. Give Constructive Feedback Be specific and clear in your feedback. Instead of saying “I don’t like it,” try “The voiceover feels too fast; can we slow it down a bit?”

6. Trust the Process and the Pros You chose this animated video company for their expertise. While your vision is important, be open to their professional guidance—they know what works in animation.

7. Stay Engaged Throughout Regular check-ins and active participation ensure that the final video aligns with your vision and avoids last-minute surprises.

Conclusion When both the client and the animated video company are aligned and committed, the result is a polished, effective animated video that delivers results.

How do I hire an animated video company?

Choosing the right animated video company for your project is a key step in the production process.

Here are some resources to help you hire the right animated video production company for your project, budget and desired visual style:

• How to outsource an animated video project?
• How to hire an animator?
• 9 Things to Look For When Hiring An Animator to create an animation.
• What goes into production cost of an animated video?
• Pros and Cons of Different Animation Styles.
• What’s the difference between hiring an animation studio, a freelance animator and Video Igniter?
• What is Video Igniter Animation?
• Learn the different types of online animated video makers.
• Interested in 3D animation? Read about 3D animation makers.

How can I save money when working with an animated video company?

• Download our script writing template and use it to create the script for your animated video.
• Download our storyboard template and use it to create the storyboard for your animated video.
• Consider using stock assets to reduce your design cost.
• You can use free (legal) music for your animated video soundtrack.
• You can record the voiceover for your animated video.

For more tips on making your video animation more affordable, check out this companion article:

What does it cost to hire an animated video company?

Depends on the length and style of the animated video you are creating. Most 2D animated videos can be created for under $5,000 for a 60 second video. Some 2D animations are more expensive to produce based on the visual style and the amount of detail going into the animation. 3D animated videos cost 2-4x more to produce.

How long does it take an animated video company to create a custom animated video?

It depends on the length of the video and the visual style used to create it. A typical 60 second, 2D animated video can be produced in 3-6 weeks. 3D animated videos take 2-3x as much time. Longer videos can take a few months or even a year to produce. To get an estimate for how long your video will take to produce, use this form to message our team about your project and let us know you are interested in getting a production timeline estimate for your video(s).

Need to speed up production for a deadline? We offer rush delivery animation to help you get your video produced faster:

Still have animated video company questions?

Do you have a question about animated video companies that wasn’t addressed in this FAQ? Use this form to send us your question and we’ll follow up with an answer. We’ll also post the question and answer to this page so other people can benefit from the knowledge.

What is Video Igniter Animation?

Video Igniter Animation is an online animated video production service. By working with our team online, you can get your custom animated video produced faster and for less than hiring a brick and mortar animation studio.

We can help you create any kind of 2D animated video or 3D animation you can imagine. Check out our animated video portfolio!

Do you want to create an animated cryptocurrency video or an animated blockchain explainer video that explains how your technology works? We can help with that too.

Watch our explainer video to learn more about how we can help you create an animated ad for your business or check out our demo reel below:

 

Looking For An Animated Video Company In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Success Stories & Testimonials

“Video Igniter offered us the critical combination of creative value, clear communication, and patience with stakeholder feedback. We ended up with truly high-quality design assets for our video series largely due to the extra level of commitment — and the right balance of efficiencies with flexibility in the process when called for.”

Larry Schlessinger – Sr. Creative Program Manager, Amazon Web Services

“Video Igniter came to us with a number of creative and engaging ideas and were able to create an exciting, impactful video in a short period of time. And the best part was that it cost much less than other options of similar quality. The video they made is a great marketing tool for us.”

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

“I am beyond satisfied with my experience with Video Igniter. The first drafts of the work were almost exactly what I had in my head when developing the concept. After that each step along the way was seamless until arriving at a perfect finished product. And all this at a tremendous value. Anyone who has considered creating a marketing video should check out Video Igniter.”

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Looking to hire an animated video company? Get in touch!

Schedule a call with our animated video company to discuss your project.

Get a quote for us to create your animated video.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

Create your Video Igniter account, fill out a creative brief, and we’ll start your animated video.