If you want to learn how to create highly engaging video for Instagram, you’re in the right place! Video Igniter’s comprehensive guide to creating Instagram animations will teach you how to create custom animated videos that capture your audience’s attention and more!

✅ Learn how to make high converting animations for Instagram.

✅ Learn the benefits of using animation on Instagram

✅ Learn what the production process is like

✅ Learn much it costs to make animations for Instagram

✅ and more!

Let’s dive in…

Benefits of Using Animation on Instagram

Filming a video on your phone and posting it online has never been easier – so why do companies want to spend the time and money to create custom animated videos to post to their Instagram and social media channels?

Increased Engagement

Animated content achieves higher engagement rates compared to live action content. Social media content is primarily static images and live action videos. On the rare occasion an animated video enters your feed, it stands out visually. People are more likely to stop and watch the intro of your video to see if they’re interested – and for those who stick around, the eye-candy animated visuals make viewers more likely to keep people watching your video longer.

Increased Retention

Not only does animation help viewers stay engaged longer, it also helps viewers understand and retain the information longer. By displaying animated visual metaphors alongside a narrative voiceover, you can help viewers increase the comprehension and retention of your key message(s).

Enhanced Brand Identity

Animation enables brands to visually communicate in ways that photos, text and live action videos can not convey. Sophisticated motion design can be used to convey playfulness and different emotions that help convey the delivery of your brand’s key messages.

Types of Instagram Animation

There are many styles of animation that you can create to capture attention on Instagram. Here’s an overview of the top 3 most popular kinds of animations that are posted on Instagram:

2D Animation

2D animated videos can be used to bring illustrations, characters and ideas to life! Whether you’re using animation to explain something new or entertain your visitors, colorful 2D images in continuous motion stand out in the ocean of live action content and give your video a longer chance for viewers to stick around and watch the rest of your video.

Stop Motion Animation

Stop motion animations capture attention on Instagram because they bring inanimate objects to life in delightful and unique ways. Seeing objects move in playful ways is enough to get people to pause mid-scroll to engage and take in your creative content.

Stop motion animations are created by displaying a scene or an object, taking a photo, then moving the object slightly before taking another photo. This process is continued taking dozens of photos for each second of animation. Then, the images are stitched together into a video to create the illusion of an object in motion.

 

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A post shared by Lego Cooking (@legocookingasmr)

Cinemagraphs

Cinemagraphs blend motion with static images. In most cases, a photo has animation applied to a few sections of an image to create the illusion that the image is a video. By blending beautiful static images with subtle motion, you create beautiful moving photographs.

 

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A post shared by Daniela Constantini (@danielabistrain)

Why Choose Video Igniter To Make Your Instagram Animation?

Video Igniter was established in 2011 and has worked with agencies, production companies, big names like T-Mobile, Amazon, Linkedin, & DocuSign and startups from around around the world to craft custom animated 2D and 3D videos to help support every business goal you can imagine. Here are the top reasons our customers love working with Video Igniter to create animations for their Instagram, their homepage, and beyond!

Customization and Originality

There’s a growing number of online animated video maker services out there but Video Igniter is the only online animated video maker that enables you to create 100% custom animated videos. Even if you have zero video production experience.

Simply explain what you want to create and Video Igniter’s online app walks you through the entire production process. You’ll receive notifications when it’s time for you to provide feedback on your script, storyboard, voiceover, illustrations and the animation.

Using original animated visual styles is going to help your Instagram animation stand out and deliver your key talking points in a captivating fashion.

Animation Expertise

After working with hundreds of agencies, production companies, startups & brands from every industry, we’ve crafted a well oiled animation production team capable of producing any kind of animated visual story you can imagine. Whether you’re looking to create a 2D animation or a 3D animation for your Instagram, we have the artistic and technical skillset on our team to bring your vision to life!

Check out our animation portfolio and contact our team to discuss the specifics of your animated video project.

Storytelling and Branding

Need help crafting the story and visual branding for your Instagram animation? Video Igniter’s professional writing team is ready to help you create a fun or professional audio/visual narrative to convey your key talking points in a way that resonates with your target audience.

Streamlined Production Process

Video Igniter’s streamlined online project management system enables us to provide a smooth and organized production experience. That means you’ll get your video produced faster and for less than hiring a brick and mortar animation studio.

How To Make An Instagram Animation

Here’s a quick overview of the production process for an Instagram animation so that you can anticipate what’s coming up during each stage of the production process.

Kick Off / Questionnaire

Production starts with a kick off call and or a questionnaire to help us learn:

✅ What are your project goals?

✅ Who is the target audience for your Instagram animation?

✅ What visual style do you want to use for your animation?

✅ What do you want to communicate?

Concept + Script

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Now that we understand what you want to communicate, our team will develop a script for your Instagram animation. If your animation isn’t going to include a voiceover, we will develop a brief outline of what we intend to show in your video. You get an opportunity to review the script/concept and provide feedback. We will integrate your notes and send you the updated script/concept to approve.

Storyboard

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

Next we will turn your script into a storyboard. A storyboard is a visual blueprint for your animation that includes instructions for the illustrators and animators so that they understand what to create for each section of your script.

We’ll share the first draft of the storyboard with you to get your feedback. We want to ensure the storyboard includes enough information so that the production team knows how much detail to include within their animation. Share your notes with us and we will incorporate your edits. You get final approval of the storyboard before we move forward with production.

VoiceOver (Optional)

Most Instagram animations include voiceovers – but not all of them. If your animation includes a voiceover we will send you several voiceover auditions to review. Let us know which one you prefer. Then we’ll oversee the recording of the full voiceover. You get an opportunity to review the audio and request edits before approving it for production.

Soundtrack

Music is a great way to add more energy and to frame the emotional tone of your animation. We’ll select a handful of soundtracks that will enhance the presentation of your Instagram animation and let you choose your favorite. Then we’ll purchase broadcast license so that you can legally use the music in your animation.

Side Note: facebook.com/sound provides a large library of free music that can be used in videos produced for Facebook and Instagram.

Illustrations

After your storyboard is approved, our art director will develop custom concept art for your Instagram animation.

Let us know which concept you prefer. You can also collaborate with our art director to refine your preferred concept until the details get dialed in.

Then, we’ll create the rest of the illustrations for your Instagram animation. You get the opportunity to review all the art and request revisions before approving the illustrations for production.

Animation

Now that everything is approved, we can animate your Instagram video. We’ll send you the first draft as soon as it’s ready to review. We recommend sharing it with your internal team and members of your target audience. Collect everyone’s feedback and send it to us. We’ll incorporate your edits and render out the final draft for you to use.

How to make an effective animation for Instagram

It’s easy to make pretty moving animations for Instagram – but if you want to ensure your Instagram animation helps support your business goals, we recommend you take the following tips into consideration:

1). Ensure the storytelling in your Instagram is tailored to speak directly to the needs of your target audience. Keep the message simple and clear to make it easier to convey.

2). Make sure your Instagram animation uses an animation style that is appropriate for your target audience. Childish-looking cartoons don’t play well for C-suite executives. If you want to explain how something mechanical operates, it might be worth while to create a detailed 3D animation to show what you really want to convey.

3). Optimize the design of your Instagram animation for mobile viewing. Do you anticipate most viewers will see your video in their Instagram feed or stories or reels? Pick your viewing experience and design your animation to fit within the square, horizontal or vertical window. One of the great strengths of animation is that it’s feasible to slightly redesign your Instagram animation so that you can have a version of your video that plays well in each of these aspect ratios.

4). Don’t forget to include a Call To Action (CTA) at the end of your animation. When people get drawn in to what you have to offer, be sure to provide them direction for what to do next to learn more or how they can get your product/service.

What does it cost to make an animation for Instagram?

60 seconds of custom animation tends to run between $1,500-$25,000 for most animated videos. If you want to produce shorter videos for Instagram, your production budget will be lower; however making a video that is half the length doesn’t automatically mean the cost will be 50% of the price of a 60 second video.

It’s worth mentioning that American animation studios are weary of taking on short animated content that’s 10 seconds or less because they still require a lot of time and attention so the production budget may feel outsized given the length of the content. That being said, if you want to make a bunch of short animated clips, can make the most of your production budget by bundling multiple videos together into a single video (i.e. make 6 videos that are 5 seconds each, 3 videos that are 10 seconds each, etc). When production wraps up, just slice the video file into separate video files. Producing content this way helps to streamline the project management aspects of your video project and can help lower production costs.

Get a quote for your Instagram animation(s) or request access to our current price sheet.

How long does it take to make an Instagram animation?

Most animated content for Instagram can be made in 2-6 weeks – depending on the complexity of the animation and whether or not script writing & storyboarding are factored into the project timeline. 3D animated videos may take a few more weeks to produce.

To get a production timeline for your Instagram animation, contact us with details about your project goals and deliverables.

Instagram Animation Best Practices for Brands

Creating an effective Instagram animation isn’t only about making something visually interesting. Brands also need to think about where the animation will appear, how viewers consume content, and what action they want people to take afterward. A well-designed animated video can become a reusable marketing asset that supports multiple stages of the customer journey.

Instagram Reels Animation

Instagram Reels are a natural format for animated content because they provide a large vertical viewing area and are designed around short-form video. Animated Reels can be used to introduce a product, explain a concept, showcase a new feature, promote an event, share educational information, or create entertaining branded content.

When creating animation for Reels, design the composition specifically for vertical viewing rather than simply placing a horizontal video inside a vertical frame. Important text, logos, characters, and other visual elements should remain comfortably inside the central viewing area.

The first few seconds are particularly important. Start with a visual or statement that immediately communicates why someone should keep watching. Instead of beginning with a long company introduction, consider starting with a question, surprising fact, problem, or visually compelling moment.

Animated Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories provide another opportunity to use animation for marketing. Because Stories are displayed vertically and are often consumed quickly, animated graphics can help communicate information without requiring a large amount of text.

Brands can use animated Stories to announce promotions, introduce new products, highlight customer testimonials, explain services, promote an upcoming event, or direct followers toward another destination.

Consider creating a series of short animated Story slides rather than trying to communicate an entire message in one screen. Each slide can introduce one idea and naturally lead the viewer to the next part of the story.

Animated text, transitions, illustrations, icons, and branded graphics can also make otherwise simple Story content more visually engaging.

Design Instagram Animations for Sound-Off Viewing

Not everyone will watch an Instagram video with the sound turned on. People may be scrolling in a public place, at work, or in another situation where they don’t want audio playing.

For this reason, an effective Instagram animation should still communicate its most important message visually. If the video contains narration, consider adding captions or incorporating important keywords into the animation itself.

This doesn’t mean every animated video needs to contain large amounts of text. In fact, too much text can make a video difficult to follow on a smartphone. Instead, identify the few words or ideas that are essential to understanding the message and emphasize those visually.

Music and sound effects can still play an important role in creating emotion and energy, but the animation shouldn’t completely depend on audio for the viewer to understand its purpose.

Maintain Consistent Branding Across Animated Content

One advantage of custom animation is the ability to build a recognizable visual language for your brand. Rather than treating every Instagram video as an isolated piece of content, establish visual elements that can be reused across multiple animations.

Your brand’s colors, typography, illustration style, character designs, transitions, icons, and other graphic elements can help viewers recognize your content as they scroll through their feeds.

Consistency is particularly useful when producing a series of Instagram animations. For example, a company could create a recurring educational video series where every episode uses the same general visual style while introducing a different topic.

This approach can make content production more efficient while creating a cohesive appearance across your Instagram profile.

Repurpose One Animation Into Multiple Instagram Assets

A single custom animation doesn’t necessarily have to become just one Instagram post. With some planning, you can create multiple pieces of social media content from the same production.

For example, a 60-second animated video could potentially be edited into several shorter clips. Individual scenes could become standalone posts, Story content, or short educational clips. A particularly useful section could also be turned into a short looping animation or GIF.

You can also create different versions of the same animation for different audiences or marketing campaigns. Changing the introduction, ending, branding, or CTA may allow an existing animation to serve a different purpose without requiring an entirely new production.

Planning for content repurposing before production begins can make your animation investment more valuable.

Use Animation to Explain Complex Products

Instagram is often associated with entertainment and lifestyle content, but animation can also be particularly useful for companies selling complex products and services.

Software companies, technology companies, financial services, healthcare organizations, manufacturers, and other businesses can use animation to simplify concepts that would be difficult to demonstrate with conventional video.

For example, an animated sequence can show what happens inside a software platform, illustrate an abstract process, visualize data, or demonstrate how a physical product works from an angle that would be difficult to film.

Instead of trying to explain every feature, focus each Instagram animation on one specific concept. A series of focused videos can often communicate complex information more effectively than one video attempting to explain everything at once.

Measure Your Instagram Animation Performance

After publishing an Instagram animation, use performance data to determine whether the content is accomplishing its intended purpose.

Useful metrics can include views, watch time, completion rate, shares, saves, comments, profile visits, link clicks, and conversions. The most useful metric depends on the objective of the animation.

For example, an educational animation may be successful if people save and share it, while a promotional animation may be intended to drive profile visits or website traffic.

Pay particular attention to audience retention. If viewers consistently stop watching near the beginning, the opening may need to be more compelling. If viewers watch most of the video but rarely take the desired action, the messaging or CTA may need to be revised.

Testing different versions of your Instagram animation can also provide useful insights. You could experiment with different opening hooks, visual styles, captions, video lengths, or calls to action to determine which approach resonates with your audience.

Create an Instagram Animation Series

Instead of relying on a single animated post, consider developing a recurring series. A consistent series gives your audience a reason to recognize and return to your content.

For example, a technology company could create weekly animated tips, while a software company could produce a series of short videos explaining individual features. A consumer brand might use animation to tell an ongoing story across multiple posts.

A series also gives your production team an opportunity to establish reusable characters, backgrounds, transitions, templates, and visual assets. Once the visual system has been established, producing additional episodes can become more efficient.

The most successful Instagram animation strategy doesn’t necessarily require every video to be completely different. A recognizable format combined with fresh topics can help a brand build consistency while continuing to provide new information to its audience.

Ultimately, the goal of Instagram animation should be to combine attention-grabbing visuals with useful messaging, recognizable branding, and a clear purpose. When animation is created specifically for the way people consume Instagram content, it can become much more than an attractive social media post—it can become a reusable marketing asset that helps educate, entertain, and move viewers toward the next step.

Animation Maker Production Resources

These articles are popular among people researching and reading about animation makers:

• Platforms To Syndicate Your Animated Videos On
• Learn How Custom Animations Are Made
• How To Make An Animation

Still have questions about making animations for Instagram?

Do you have a question about Instagram animations that weren’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!

Watch our explainer video on our home page to learn more about how we can help you create an animated video. For examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce, check out the demo reel below:

Looking For An Instagram Animation Company In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Success Stories & Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it – these testimonials highlight Video Igniter’s reliability, creativity, flexibility and ability to deliver animations that exceed expectations. When you choose Video Igniter Animation, you can rest assured that you are working with a trusted and reputable studio.

“Video Igniter were very easy to work with and the entire process for creating and suggesting edits was seamless and stress-free. I would work with them again and would recommend to others looking to create a modern and stylish explainer video.”

Clair Simpson – VP Marketing, Repool.com

“I run a video production company and outsource animation. The team at Video Igniter did a great job in taking the concept I very crudely drew out and making it into a beautiful animation. The review process was easy and their turnaround time was very quick. I’d def recommend them if you’re looking for an animation project.”

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

“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

Get in touch about creating your Instagram animation!

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video 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 for your video and we’ll begin production as soon as we receive your production deposit.

Do you want to hire a motion graphics designer but aren’t sure how to get started? You’re in the right place! Video Igniter produces animated videos and motion graphics and you can hire our professional motion design team to create custom motion graphics for your next video project. In this guide we’ll explain what the production process is like, how long it takes to create custom motion graphics, what to expect in terms of costs, and more!

Let’s dive in…

Examples Of Motion Graphics Video Igniter Can Create For You

Video Igniter can create any kind of 2D or 3D animation for you. Check out the example videos below.

To start your project contact us, schedule a call with our production team or request access to our new pricing page.

Are you looking for an example of a different style of motion graphic? 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.

Benefits of Hiring Video Igniter’s Motion Graphics Designers

Video Igniter’s production team is comprised of professional illustrators, animators, motion graphics designers, storytellers and sound engineers that collaborate to produce professional quality animations and motion graphics for startups, agencies, video production companies and big names like T-Mobile, Amazon, Linkedin and more!

Here are some of the benefits our clients get when they work with one of our motion graphics designers instead of hiring your own full time in-house motion graphics designer:

The right talent for the right project.

Our team of motion graphics designers can create any kind of 2D or 3D animated motion graphic you can imagine. The lone designer you hire for your team may not have all the skills necessary to produce all the types of content you want to create. When you start a project with Video Igniter, we ensure the motion designer assigned to your project has relevant design experience to craft the visual style you envision.

On-Demand-Talent = Annual Cost Savings

Rather than hiring a year-round motion graphics designer, you can collaborate with one (or more!) of our motion graphics designers on an as-needed basis. Whether you’re just creating one short animation or a library of hundreds of motion graphics, our team can scale to meet your production needs.

What does it cost to hire a motion graphics designer?

If you want to hire a full time or freelance motion graphics designer, expect to pay $35-$75+ per hour. When you hire Video Igniter’s motion graphic designers to help you create your video, we charge based on the length of the content we’re producing for you.

Check out our pricing page and demo reels to see how much it costs to hire a motion graphics designer for varying levels of production quality.

How long does it take to make a video with a motion graphics designer?

Simple motion graphics that are created and overlaid on top of existing video footage can be made in as little as a few hours or a few days. However, in many cases, it can take a week or two to do all the design and prep work to ensure the motion graphics designer is creating the right content and doing so in a way that visually compliments your brand.

If you want to hire a motion graphics designer to create a complete animated video, expect it to take 2-5 weeks to create a 60 second custom animated motion graphic. Motion graphics that include 3D animation can take 2-4x more time to produce.

What is the production process like working with a motion graphics designer?

Here’s a quick overview of the production process so that you can anticipate what’s involved with creating a custom animated motion graphic:

1). Kickoff Call / Questionnaire

Production begins with a phone call and or a questionnaire to help us learn:

✅ Who your target audience is?

✅ What visual style you want to use for your motion graphic?

✅ What do you want to convey with your motion graphic?

2). Script / Outline

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Now that we have a better understanding of the motion graphic you want us to create, our motion graphic designer will draft a script or an outline that describes what we’re going to create. If your motion graphic is purely visual, there will be no script, just visual descriptions of what we plan to create. If your motion graphic will also have a voiceover, we will draft a script for you to review.

Share your feedback with us and we will revise your script / outline until you are thrilled with it.

3). Storyboard

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

Once the script/outline is locked in, our motion graphics designer will create a storyboard. A storyboard is a visual blueprint for your motion graphic that explains to the illustrator and animator what they’re supposed to create.

Give the storyboard a detailed review and ensure it includes enough detail for the production team to understand what needs to be included in the visuals for each scene.

We’ll incorporate your feedback and continue to work with you to refine the storyboard until it’s perfect.

4). VoiceOver (Optional)

Not all motion graphics include a voiceover so this step may be omitted. If a voiceover is needed for your motion graphic, we will share some voiceover auditions for you to review. Let us know which voiceover artist resonates with you. Then we’ll oversee the recording of the full voiceover.

You get an opportunity to review the voiceover and request revisions until you love the recording.

5). Illustrations

Next, the motion graphics designer will develop custom concept art for you to review.

Let the motion graphics designer know which concept you like best. Then you can collaborate with them to refine the visual concept to dial in the details until they’re perfect.

Once the concept art is locked in, we will create all of the rest of the custom graphics for your motion graphic. You get an opportunity to review the graphics and request revisions before approving the art for production.

6). Soundtrack (Optional)

Not all motion graphics include soundtracks so this step may be omitted. If your motion graphic is going to include background music, we will select a few options and share them with you to review. Let us know which soundtrack you prefer and we’ll license it for use in your animated motion graphic. If you aren’t in love with any of the soundtrack options, let us know why and we’ll source new options for you to consider.

7). Animation

Now that everything is approved, the motion graphics designer can animate your project! You will receive the first draft as soon as it’s ready to review. Share the draft with members of your internal team (and ideally members of your target audience). Send everyone’s feedback to us. We’ll incorporate your revisions and render out the final draft of your motion graphic.

What Does a Motion Graphics Designer Do?

A motion graphics designer combines graphic design, animation, typography, visual storytelling, and video production to create moving visual content. Instead of designing graphics that remain static, a motion graphics designer considers how those graphics should move, change, transition, and interact with other elements over time.

Motion graphics can range from a few animated text elements added to existing footage to a completely custom animated video. Depending on the project, a motion graphics designer may animate logos, typography, illustrations, icons, charts, diagrams, interfaces, photographs, product imagery, or other visual assets.

The goal is not simply to make graphics move. Effective motion design uses movement to direct attention, establish visual hierarchy, communicate information, and make content easier to understand.

Common Uses for Motion Graphics Design

Businesses use motion graphics in many different types of video and digital content. A motion graphics designer can create visual content for marketing, advertising, presentations, social media, websites, internal communications, and other applications.

Animated Logos and Brand Elements

Motion graphics can turn a static logo or brand element into an animated visual. An animated logo can be used at the beginning or end of a video, in social media content, presentations, advertisements, websites, and other branded communications.

Motion designers can also create animated versions of other brand elements, such as typography, icons, patterns, transitions, and graphic layouts. Developing these elements as a cohesive system can help maintain consistency across multiple pieces of video content.

Data Visualization and Infographics

Motion graphics are particularly useful when a project needs to explain numbers, statistics, processes, or relationships between different pieces of information.

Instead of displaying a large amount of information on a static slide, an animated infographic can introduce information gradually. Charts can build over time, numbers can change on screen, and individual elements can be highlighted as the narration explains them.

This approach can make complex information easier for viewers to follow because the animation controls what information appears and when it appears.

Animated Presentations

A motion graphics designer can also transform traditional presentation content into animated video. Slides containing charts, diagrams, headlines, product information, or other graphics can be animated to create a more dynamic viewing experience.

This can be useful for companies that want to turn sales presentations, conference presentations, investor information, or educational material into videos that can be distributed beyond the original live presentation.

Social Media Motion Graphics

Social media platforms are another common application for motion graphics design. Short animated graphics can be used to introduce products, highlight statistics, promote announcements, explain concepts, or create branded content.

When creating motion graphics for social media, consider the way people consume content on mobile devices. Large visual elements, concise messaging, strong contrast, and movement that communicates quickly can help the video work effectively when viewers are scrolling through a feed.

It is also worth considering whether the content will be viewed with sound turned off. Captions and visual communication can help the message remain understandable without relying entirely on narration.

Motion Graphics Designer Skills to Look For

If you’re hiring a motion graphics designer, reviewing technical skills alone isn’t enough. Look for someone who combines design ability with an understanding of animation and communication.

Important skills can include graphic design, typography, composition, color theory, animation principles, visual storytelling, video editing, and timing.

Experience with software used for motion design can also be relevant. Depending on the project, a motion graphics designer may work with applications such as Adobe After Effects, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Premiere Pro, Cinema 4D, Blender, or other specialized animation and video tools.

However, software proficiency doesn’t necessarily indicate whether a designer is right for a particular project. A strong portfolio can provide more useful evidence of whether a designer’s visual style and technical abilities match your requirements.

How to Evaluate a Motion Graphics Designer’s Portfolio

A portfolio should show more than visually impressive animation. When reviewing a motion graphics designer’s work, look at how effectively the designer communicates information through movement.

Pay attention to the relationship between typography, imagery, transitions, timing, and sound. Consider whether the animation feels intentional or whether elements are moving simply for the sake of movement.

It can also be helpful to look for examples similar to your own project. Someone may produce excellent character animation but have limited experience with corporate infographics, product demonstrations, UI animation, or data visualization.

Ask to see a variety of completed projects when possible. This can help you determine whether the designer can adapt their approach to different brands, audiences, and communication goals.

What to Give Your Motion Graphics Designer Before Production

Providing useful information at the beginning of a project can help your motion graphics designer understand what needs to be created.

Useful materials may include your brand guidelines, logo files, existing graphic assets, product screenshots, photographs, video footage, reference examples, campaign information, and any existing messaging.

It can also help to explain where the finished motion graphic will be used and who will watch it. A graphic designed for a conference presentation may have different requirements from one created for a mobile social media advertisement.

If you have examples of motion graphics you like, share them with the designer and explain what you like about them. Identifying specific characteristics—such as typography, pacing, transitions, color, or visual style—can be more useful than simply saying that you want the project to “look similar.”

Motion Graphics Design and Video Editing

Motion graphics design and video editing are related but distinct disciplines. A video editor primarily works with existing footage, arranging shots and audio into a finished sequence. A motion graphics designer creates or animates visual elements that may not exist as traditional camera footage.

Many projects require both skills. For example, a marketing video may combine live-action footage with animated titles, charts, product callouts, transitions, logos, and other graphic elements.

Understanding this distinction can help you determine what type of creative professional you need. If your project consists primarily of existing footage that needs to be assembled, a video editor may be appropriate. If the project requires custom animated graphics, typography, illustrations, or visual effects, a motion graphics designer may be an important part of the production team.

When Should You Hire a Motion Graphics Designer?

Consider hiring a motion graphics designer when static graphics are not enough to communicate your message or when you want to add movement and visual storytelling to existing content.

Motion graphics can be especially useful for explaining complicated information, presenting data, demonstrating software features, introducing a brand, creating advertising content, and producing short-form digital content.

The right motion graphics designer should be able to translate your message into visuals while making deliberate decisions about movement, timing, composition, and visual hierarchy. Rather than treating animation as decoration, an experienced motion designer can use movement as another tool for communicating your ideas.

Motion Graphic Designer Production Resources

These articles are popular among people researching and reading about motion graphics designers:

• How To Create A Motion Graphics Animation
• How To Make Motion Graphics With An Animator
• How To Hire And Work With A Motion Graphics Company
• How Long Does It Take to Animate A 1 Minute Video?
• Learn About Different Styles Of Animation
• Still have questions about motion graphics designers?

Do you have a question about motion graphics designers 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!

Watch our explainer video on our home page to learn more about how we can help you create an animated video. For examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce, check out the demo reel below:

Looking For An Motion Graphics Designer In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Success Stories & Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it – these testimonials highlight Video Igniter’s reliability, creativity, flexibility and ability to deliver animations that exceed expectations. When you choose Video Igniter Animation, you can rest assured that you are working with a trusted and reputable studio.

“Video Igniter were very easy to work with and the entire process for creating and suggesting edits was seamless and stress-free. I would work with them again and would recommend to others looking to create a modern and stylish explainer video.”

Clair Simpson – VP Marketing, Repool.com

“I run a video production company and outsource animation. The team at Video Igniter did a great job in taking the concept I very crudely drew out and making it into a beautiful animation. The review process was easy and their turnaround time was very quick. I’d def recommend them if you’re looking for an animation project.”

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

“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

Get in touch about hiring a motion graphics designer!

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video 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 for your video and we’ll begin production as soon as we receive your production deposit.

Are you trying to figure out the 2D animation cost to make a custom animated video? If so, you’re in the right place!

In this guide, we explain what factors contribute to your 2D animation cost, how to figure out what it will cost to make your 2D animated video and tips to help keep your 2D animated video production cost low.

We also show some examples of what high cost, low cost and medium cost animations look like.

What does 2D animation cost?

TL;DR: $1,000-$25,000 per 60 seconds of animation.

That’s quite a wide range. Read on to understand what makes your video cost closer to $1k/min or $25k/min.

What contributes to the cost of a 2D animated video?

How detailed are the illustration?

The complexity of the illustrations in your animated video is one of the biggest determining factors of your 2D animation cost. The more detailed the illustrations are, the more time it will take to create quality custom visuals. This applies not only to the character design, it also applies to any objects in view and the background elements that make up the scene.

How much motion design is there?

The amount of motion detail also contributes to a higher or lower animation production cost.

A low cost way to make a character walk across screen would be to display a 2D image of a character and then tell the program to slide the character from left to right across the screen. It’s simple and conveys that the character is walking without having to spend all the time individually illustrating and animating the character’s arms, legs and head.

On the flip side, if you want to show realistic motion design, then the illustration team will need to create more images to show the natural movement of the character’s body and clothing as it walks across the screen.

Motion design extends beyond just character design. Your background can have moving elements (water, rain, snow, etc) and maybe even multiple characters or animals moving around simultaneously. The more detail you want to include, the more hours it takes our animation team to create.

How long is your 2D animation?

Kind of an obvious one but worth mentioning – the longer your animated video is, the longer your 2d animation cost will be. Many animation studios base their animation prices on the length of the video and the level of detail in the animation.

Are the character’s mouth’s synced to the voiceover?

This is a very specific motion design detail to call out. If your animated video includes characters that will be talking with their mouth’s synced up to the voiceover, it will increase your 2d animation cost. Syncing up mouth (and face) movements with your voiceover takes extra time to make the animation effect appear realistic.

How do I figure out my 2D animation cost?

So, how do you figure out the cost for your 2D animation? Here are a few options:

1). Use this form to get in touch with us about your 2D animation cost. Send us examples of the kind(s) of animated visual styles you’re interested in using for your video. Then, we’ll follow up with a quote for your 2D animated video.

2). Fill out this questionnaire to get a quote and we’ll follow up with a production quote for your video.

3). to discuss your animated video.

4). Request access to our newest price sheet.

5). You can estimate your 2D animation cost by looking at the 2D animation cost examples below. If you are providing the script, storyboard, voiceover or soundtrack for your video, your 2D animation cost can be lower than the animation costs listed next to each demo reel.

2D Animation Cost Examples

The easiest way to understand how production quality correlates to price is to look at examples of animated videos produced at various price points.

Below are a few demo reels that showcase what kind of quality you can expect for low, medium and high production budgets.

Video Igniter can create any kind of 2D or 3D animated video for you. Request access to our demo reels and price sheet here. Contact us or schedule a call to start making your video.

High End 2D Animation Examples

These demo reels feature examples of 2D animated videos that cost over $10,000 per 60 seconds of animation.

Medium Cost 2D Animation Examples

These demo reels show examples of 2D animated videos that cost between $3,000-$8,500 to create a one minute animated 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.

Low Cost 2D Animation Examples

This demo reel features examples of low cost 2D animations. >$2,500 to produce 60 seconds of animation.

Other costs associated with 2D animation

In addition to creating illustrations and animations for your 2D animated video, there are several other costs associated with animated video production. These pieces of the animated video production process can be handled by you or you can hire us to create them for you.

Script Writing

Script writing is the skeleton for your 2D animation. We start each project by developing a script so that we understand what we are going to communicate in your video.

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

For some projects, we will do extra research to test which message(s) resonate best with your target audience.

You can save money on your animation production cost by writing the script for your animated video.

Storyboard Creation

The storyboard is the blueprint for your animated video. It tells the illustrators and animators what they’re supposed to create and how the visuals will sync up with the voiceover.

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

Storyboards cost $300-$1,000 to produce. Alternately, you could make the storyboard yourself to save some money on your production budget. Download our storyboard creation template.

Soundtrack Licensing

We will identify several soundtrack options that will enhance the mood and presentation of your 2D animation. We’ll also ensure that the soundtrack is properly licensed for the platforms you plan to display your video on.

VoiceOver Recording

Our team will audition voiceover artists for your animated video. You get to pick your favorite option(s). Then, we’ll oversee the recording of the full voiceover.

If you want, you could record the voiceover yourself and send it to us to use in your 2D animation and get a slight reduction in your production cost.

Tips to save money on your 2D animation cost

1). Write the script for your 2D animated video. Download our free script writing template.

2). Create the storyboard for your 2D animated video to keep your production cost down. Download our free storyboard template and storyboard creation guide.

3). Use free, legal music in your animated video.

4). Use a simpler, less detailed visual style for your animated video.

5). Record the voiceover for your animated video. Check out 1:31 in this video to learn how you can record professional quality voiceovers at home for free.

6). Consider letting your animation team use some stock assets like images, icons, text and clip art to lower the illustration cost for your 2D animation.

How Much Does 2D Animation Cost Per Minute?

When most people ask “how much does 2D animation cost,” they’re often looking for a per-minute estimate. While the average price range of $1,000–$25,000 per 60 seconds of animation is a good starting point, your actual cost depends on multiple factors—such as the number of characters, the animation style, and the level of storytelling complexity.

For instance, a simple 2D explainer video with basic motion graphics might cost around $1,000–$2,500 per minute, while a professionally illustrated and fully animated marketing video with multiple characters and transitions could land between $7,000–$12,000 per minute. If your project includes advanced motion tracking, cinematic lighting, and lip-synced dialogue, it’s common to see costs exceed $15,000–$25,000 per minute.

When budgeting for your 2D animation, it’s important to balance your visual ambitions with your marketing goals. For example, if you’re producing a quick social media ad, a lightweight animation style can still be effective while keeping your 2D animation cost low. On the other hand, if you’re creating a broadcast-quality TV commercial or a long-form brand film, investing in high-end 2D animation ensures your visuals stand out and feel premium.

2D Animation Pricing by Style

The style of animation you choose has a major impact on your 2D animation cost. Here’s a breakdown of how common animation styles compare:

• Whiteboard Animation: Often the most affordable option, starting around $1,000–$3,000 per minute. It features simple line drawings with minimal motion.
• Cartoon Animation: A more character-driven style that typically costs $3,000–$8,000 per minute, depending on the number of characters and animation detail.
• Motion Graphics: Sleek and professional, often used for corporate explainers or product demos. Expect $2,500–$10,000 per minute based on complexity.
• Hand-Drawn Frame-by-Frame Animation: Labor-intensive but visually stunning. These projects usually cost $10,000–$25,000 per minute or more.
• Cutout or Vector Animation: Ideal for app demos or explainer videos. These cost roughly $2,000–$6,000 per minute, depending on transitions and design style.

When requesting a quote, be sure to share example videos of the animation style you like. That helps your production team provide a more accurate 2D animation cost estimate.

Why 2D Animation Costs Vary Between Studios

It’s common to see different animation studios quote dramatically different prices for the same project. This doesn’t always mean one is overcharging—it usually reflects differences in experience, workflow, and production quality.

For example:

• Freelancers often charge less because they have lower overhead but may take longer to deliver.
• Mid-size studios balance cost and quality with a full creative team, offering smoother project management and faster turnaround.
• Top-tier studios have award-winning art directors, animators, and voice actors, which drives up your 2D animation cost but ensures exceptional polish and storytelling.

When comparing quotes, look beyond price. Ask about revision rounds, creative direction, and who will actually be animating your video. A slightly higher cost can pay off with fewer headaches and a better final product.

How to Get the Most Value for Your 2D Animation Budget

If your 2D animation cost is higher than expected, there are smart ways to stretch your budget:

1. Repurpose animation assets. Ask your studio to deliver individual animated elements that can be reused in future videos or social media clips.

2. Batch production. Producing a series of short animations at once can reduce your per-minute cost, since characters and backgrounds only need to be created once.

3. Simplify transitions. Smooth camera movements and visual effects add time and cost. Using simpler transitions can keep the focus on your message without inflating your budget.
4. Use vector-based designs. These are faster to animate and more scalable than fully hand-drawn scenes.
5. Lock your script early. Revisions after animation begins can dramatically increase your total 2D animation cost.

By planning ahead and focusing on what truly matters to your audience, you can achieve great results even with a modest budget.

Average 2D Animation Cost by Purpose

Your intended use for the animation can also influence pricing. Here’s a general overview:

This table provides ballpark figures for budgeting your 2D animation cost. Actual pricing can vary depending on the studio’s expertise and production timeline.

How Revisions Affect 2D Animation Cost

Revisions are an often-overlooked factor in animation pricing. Most studios include one or two rounds of revisions in their base quote, but additional changes—especially after animation has started—can significantly raise costs.

If you anticipate multiple stakeholders reviewing the video, it’s wise to align everyone on the script, storyboard, and style before production begins. Every change after that point requires extra design and rendering time, which increases the total 2D animation cost.

Should You Choose 2D or 3D Animation?

Another consideration when planning your project is whether 2D animation or 3D animation is the right fit. Generally speaking, 2D animation costs less than 3D because it requires fewer technical steps and render times. However, 3D animation offers more visual depth and realism.

If your goal is to create a fun, stylized, and affordable video that clearly explains a concept, 2D animation is often the better choice. It’s flexible, faster to produce, and easier to adapt for different marketing channels—all while keeping your overall animation cost manageable.

Additional Factors That Can Affect 2D Animation Cost

When estimating 2D animation cost, it’s easy to focus exclusively on the visual style. However, several less obvious production requirements can also affect the final price of an animated video. These factors may not dramatically change the cost of a simple project, but they can become significant when producing a more complex commercial, training series, product launch, or multi-channel marketing campaign.

How Quickly Do You Need the Animation?

The production timeline can affect the cost of a 2D animated video. Animation requires multiple stages of creative and technical work, so compressing the normal production schedule may require additional resources or scheduling accommodations.

A standard production timeline gives the creative team time to develop the concept, script, storyboard, artwork, voiceover, animation, sound, and final edits in sequence. A rush project may require the studio to prioritize the project, allocate additional production resources, or rearrange other scheduled work.

If your project has a fixed launch date, mention the deadline when requesting a quote. Providing the required delivery date at the beginning of the project makes it easier for the animation company to determine the appropriate production schedule and pricing.

How Many Versions of the Video Do You Need?

Another factor that can influence 2D animation pricing is the number of versions you need.

For example, a company might need one primary 60-second video along with shorter versions for social media advertising. You may also need separate versions for a website, presentation, digital advertising campaign, or internal training platform.

Creating multiple versions can be relatively efficient when the same artwork and animation assets are reused. However, substantial changes between versions may require additional editing, animation, voiceover, and sound work.

When requesting an animation quote, provide the production team with a list of all required versions. Planning these deliverables from the beginning can make the overall project more efficient than creating the primary animation first and requesting additional versions later.

Does the Animation Need Multiple Aspect Ratios?

Modern video campaigns frequently require content in multiple dimensions. A single animated video might need to be delivered in:

• 16:9 for YouTube, websites, presentations, and traditional video players
• 1:1 for certain social media placements
• 9:16 for vertical platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts
• 4:5 for certain social advertising placements

Changing the dimensions of an animation is not always as simple as resizing the finished video. A composition designed for a wide screen may need to be rearranged for a vertical format so that text, characters, logos, and other important visual elements remain visible.

If you already know that your video will be used across multiple platforms, include those requirements when calculating your 2D animation cost.

Will Your Animation Need Localization?

Producing an animated video for an international audience can introduce additional production requirements.

A localized version may require translated on-screen text, new voiceover recordings, subtitle files, or adjustments to the timing of individual scenes. Some languages can also require more or fewer words than the original script, which can affect how much text fits on screen and how long certain scenes need to remain visible.

If an animated video will eventually be translated into several languages, it can be useful to plan for localization before production begins. Designing the original animation with localization in mind can make it easier to create additional versions without rebuilding the entire project.

What Happens to the Animation Assets After Production?

When comparing 2D animation costs, it is also worth asking what you receive when the project is completed.

Depending on the production agreement, a project may include the finished video file but not necessarily every editable production file. Businesses that anticipate creating future versions, advertisements, social media clips, or related videos may want to discuss access to project assets before production begins.

This can include editable artwork, illustrations, animation files, audio assets, and other production materials. Asset ownership and file delivery terms vary between animation companies, so they should be discussed as part of the original quote rather than assumed.

How Much Should You Budget for a 30-Second Animation?

The per-minute pricing of an animation does not always translate directly into a proportional price for shorter videos.

For example, a 30-second animation still requires many of the same initial production activities as a longer video. The project may still need creative planning, artwork, animation setup, voiceover, sound design, rendering, and quality control.

This means a 30-second animation may cost more than exactly half the price of a 60-second animation. Short videos can actually require a high concentration of creative work because every second needs to communicate information efficiently.

If your goal is to create a shorter video specifically to reduce your 2D animation cost, discuss the project with the production company before assuming that reducing the runtime will reduce the budget proportionally.

How Much Should You Budget for a Longer Animated Video?

Longer videos generally require more production work, but the relationship between runtime and cost depends on how the additional time is used.

A three-minute explainer composed primarily of simple motion graphics may have very different production requirements from a three-minute narrative animation containing numerous unique scenes, characters, environments, and complex movements.

For longer projects, it can therefore be useful to think about the animation in terms of the number and complexity of scenes rather than runtime alone. A production company can use the script and storyboard to determine how much artwork and animation will actually be required.

Build Your 2D Animation Budget Around Deliverables

The most useful way to estimate your 2D animation cost is to define the complete scope of the project before production begins. Instead of providing only a desired video length, identify the intended platforms, number of versions, languages, delivery formats, launch date, and any requirements for editable assets.

The more complete the project requirements are when you request a quote, the easier it is for an animation company to provide a realistic estimate. It also makes it easier to compare proposals because you can determine whether different studios are quoting on the same deliverables.

A clear production brief ultimately gives you a better understanding of where your animation budget is going and helps prevent unexpected costs caused by requirements that were not identified at the beginning of the project.

Final Thoughts on 2D Animation Cost

Understanding your 2D animation cost helps you make smarter creative and financial decisions. While prices can vary widely, knowing what drives those costs ensures you invest wisely. Whether you’re producing a 30-second ad or a 3-minute brand film, remember that quality storytelling, clear messaging, and consistent visuals deliver the biggest return on your animation budget.

If you’re ready to start planning your project, contact Video Igniter to request a personalized 2D animation quote. We’ll help you compare different visual styles and price points so you can create an animation that fits your goals and your budget.

Want to learn more about 2D animated videos?

We have a comprehensive guide that answers all the questions we receive about 2D animated videos. The guide answers popular questions like:

• How do you make a 2D animated video?
• How long does it take to make a 2D animated video?
• Why do businesses make 2D animated videos?
• And more!

Check out the 2D animated video guide here!

Still have questions about your 2D animation cost?

Do you have a question about your 2D animation cost 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!

Need help syndicating your animated video? Ask us about video promotion!

Watch our explainer video on our home page to learn more about how we can help you create an animated video. For examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce, check out the demo reel below:

Looking For An 2D Animation Company In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Success Stories & Testimonials

“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.”

Anonymous Customer Feedback

Get in touch to figure out your 2D animation cost!

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video project.

Get a quote for your 2D animated video production cost.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

Fill out a creative brief for your video. Production begins after you pay 50% of your production budget.

Are you looking for an animator for hire? If so, you’re in the right place!

Animation is one of the most effective ways to convey complex ideas and messages to people in a fun and engaging way. As businesses continue to prioritize online marketing, the need for visual content has become increasingly important. Whether you’re creating an explainer video, a promotional video, or an animated series, hiring an animator can help you bring your ideas to life. Unfortunately, not all businesses have the resources to create their own animations in house. That’s where hiring an animator comes in.

In this FAQ, we’ll discuss why you should consider hiring an animator, what to look for when you hire an animator, and how to work with them effectively. We’ll also highlight why Video Igniter is a great option for businesses looking to create high-quality animations without having to hire an animator at all!

Examples of Videos You Can Get When You Hire Video Igniter’s Animators

Video Igniter can create any kind of 2D or 3D animated video for you. Check out the example videos below.

To start your project contact us, schedule a call with our production team or request access to our new pricing page.

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.

Why Hire an Animator?

Hiring a professional animator can help ensure that your animation is of the highest quality, while also saving you time and effort. At VideoIgniter.com, we offer professional animation services that are tailored to the needs and budget of each client. Animated videos can help you stand out from your competitors and create a unique brand identity. Animation can be used for a variety of purposes, including explainer videos, promotional videos, and social media content. While animation can have a significant impact on your business, it can be expensive to produce. Hiring a freelance animator or VideoIgniter.com is a cost-effective way to bring your vision to life without the expenses of hiring a full time animator.

Additional benefits of hiring Video Igniter or an animator

✅  The ability to create custom branded video content that aligns with your brand identity.

✅  Time savings, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.

✅  Access to specialized animation production skills and software.

What to Look for When You Hire An Animator

When looking for an animator to hire, there are several factors to consider. First, you should look for an animator who has experience creating the type of animation you need. Bonus points if they have experience in your industry or niche. If you’re looking for a 2D animator, you should look for someone who specializes in 2D animation. You should also look for an animator who has a strong portfolio that showcases their work and style. Check out their testimonials and don’t hesitate to ask for references! In addition to technical skills, it’s important to look for an animator who has good communication skills and is easy to work with. The right animator will be able to understand your vision and work with you to bring it to life.

Traits to look for when hiring an animator

✅  Their portfolio and past work

✅  Technical skills, such as proficiency in animation software

✅  Original artistic style and creative vision

✅  Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate

✅  Project management skills and adherence to deadlines

✅  A problem-solving mindset and adaptability

At VideoIgniter.com, you’ll find a team of talented animators with a proven track record of creating high-quality, custom animations for businesses like yours.

Benefits of Hiring a Freelance Animator

Hiring a freelance animator is more affordable than hiring a full-time animator or an animation studio. Freelancers also have more flexibility in terms of their availability, you can often work with them on a project-by-project basis, and they can offer faster turnaround times. Additionally, freelance animators can bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to your project. However, working with a freelance animator can also have its challenges. Freelancers may not always be available when you need them, and you may need to manage multiple freelancers if you’re producing a large animation project (more than 1-2 minutes).

Advantages of hiring a freelance animator

✅  Cost savings compared to hiring a full-time employee

✅  Flexibility to work on a project-by-project basis

✅  Access to a diverse pool of talent with a range of skills and styles

✅  Faster turnaround times on projects

At VideoIgniter.com, we offer all these benefits and more – including our team of professional animators who can work together via our streamlined production process to produce high-quality animations that meet your business needs.

How to Find the Right Animator To Hire for Your Project

There are several ways to find animators for hire online. One way is to search for animators on freelance websites like Upwork and Fiverr. Another way is to search for animators on social media platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter. You can also check out online animation communities or forums to find animators who are looking for work. When searching for an animator, it’s important to review their portfolio and look for examples of work that are similar to the type of animation you need. You should also read reviews from past clients to get an idea of the animator’s work ethic and communication skills.

How To Find The Perfect Animator

✅  Define your project scope, including goals, target audience, and desired visual style

✅  Research and compile a list of potential animators based on skills, experience, and portfolios

✅  Conduct interviews to assess communication and collaboration skills

✅  Request quotes and compare pricing

✅  Check references to gauge reliability and professionalism

Alternatively, save time and effort by choosing VideoIgniter.com, where you’ll have access to a vetted team of expert animators, ready to bring your vision to life.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Animator

Before you hire an animator, here’s a list of questions you should ask them to ensure they’re the right fit for your project:

✅  Ask about their experience creating the type of animation you need.

✅  Ask about their availability to work on your project.

✅  Ask about their process for creating animations

✅  How do they handle revisions?

✅  What is your experience with animation in my industry or niche?

✅  What is your timeline for completing the project?

✅  What is your pricing structure?

✅  Can you provide examples of past work similar to my project?

✅  What is your preferred animation style and software?

✅  How do you manage project timelines and deadlines?

Tips for Hiring an Animator on a Budget

If you’re on a budget, there are several ways to hire an animator without breaking the bank. One way is to hire a student or recent graduate who is looking to build their portfolio. Another way is to hire a freelance animator who is just starting out and may be more affordable than more experienced animators. These animators are less experienced but hungry to build their portfolio to showcase their talents.

If you’re working with a limited budget, consider these tips for hiring an animator

✅  Clearly define your project scope to avoid unnecessary revisions

✅  Seek animators who offer competitive rates without sacrificing quality

✅  Consider hiring a less experienced animator with a strong portfolio

✅  Negotiate rates and payment terms to fit your budget

✅  Limit the complexity of your animation to reduce costs

✅  Write the script for your video instead of hiring the animator to do it for you.

✅  Create the storyboard for your video instead of hiring the animator to create it.

✅  Provide the voiceover for your animation

✅  Consider letting the animator use stock assets or pre-created models to save on production costs.

✅  Use free (legal) music.

✅ Start production ASAP to avoid rush delivery costs.

✅ Check out our article on creating affordable animations for more tips!

With VideoIgniter.com, you’ll get competitive pricing without sacrificing the quality of your animation.

Where to Find Animators for Hire Online

As mentioned earlier, there are several places to find animators for hire online. Some of the best places to look include freelance websites like Upwork and Fiverr, social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter, online animation communities and forums, or you can ask for recommendations from other businesses in your industry.

Platforms where you can find animators you can hire

✅  Freelance job boards and marketplaces, such as Upwork or Fiverr

✅  Animation and design forums

✅  Social media platforms, like LinkedIn and Behance

✅  Industry-specific websites and job boards

VideoIgniter.com offers a convenient, one-stop solution for sourcing highly skilled animators who are ready to tackle your project.

How to Work with an Animator After You Hire Them

Once you’ve hired an animator, it’s important to establish clear communication and expectations from the outset. You should provide the animator with a detailed brief outlining your project goals and requirements. This brief should include information such as the animation style you’re looking for, the length of the animation, and any specific elements that need to be included. It’s also important to establish a timeline for the project and agree on a schedule for check-ins and revisions. This will help ensure that the project stays on track and that any issues are addressed in a timely manner.

✅  Establish clear communication channels and expectations

✅  Provide a detailed project brief, including goals, style, and target audience

✅  Set milestones and deadlines to track progress

✅  Offer constructive feedback and revisions as needed

✅  Celebrate successes and show appreciation for their hard work

Overview of the production process once you hire an animator:

Payment #1: 50% of the estimated project total is due before production begins. Check out this article for a deep dive on animated video payment terms.

Script: You or the animator write the script for your animated video. If you hire the animator to create the script, they will share it with you to get your feedback so that you can request revisions before approving it for production.

Storyboard: You or the animator can create the storyboard for your animated video. If you hire the animator to create the storyboard for you, you will get a chance to review it and request revisions before approving it for production.

VoiceOver: You can provide the voiceover for your video project. Otherwise, the animator will order up a voiceover recording from one of their voiceover talent partners. You get to review it and request edits before approving the final draft.

Illustrations: The animator will create concept art and request your feedback to help establish the visual design for your video. Then, they will create all of the illustrations and give you a chance to review them and request revisions.

Soundtrack: The animator will select several soundtrack options and let you pick out the one you feel is best for your target audience.

Animation: After everything has been approved, the animator will animate your video. Give the first draft of your video a detailed review and share your honest feedback with the animator. They will incorporate your revisions and render out the final draft for you to use.

Payment #2: The animator will send you the final invoice for your animated video. You will receive the unwatermarked version of the final draft of your video after payment has been completed.

Tips For Negotiating Rates with an Animator

When negotiating rates with an animator, it’s important to be transparent about your budget and project requirements. You should also be open to negotiating on the scope of the project or the timeline to help meet your budget constraints. It’s also important to clarify what the animator’s rates include. For example, do they include revisions, or will you need to pay extra for additional rounds of revisions? Will you be responsible for any additional fees, such as licensing fees for music or sound effects?

When negotiating rates with an animator, consider the following strategies:

✅  Be upfront about your budget limitations

✅  Offer a clear project scope to help the animator determine an accurate quote

✅  Ask about bundled services or package deals

✅  Inquire about discounts for long-term or repeat business

✅  Propose a payment schedule that aligns with project milestones

VideoIgniter.com offers competitive pricing, flexible payment options to suit your budget and project needs, and unlimited revisions.

What to Include in an Animator’s Contract

When hiring an animator, it’s important to have a contract in place that outlines the scope of the project, the timeline, and the payment terms. The contract should also include details about ownership of the animation and any copyright or licensing agreements. It’s important to review the contract carefully before signing it to ensure that you understand all of the terms and conditions. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to address them before signing.

Key elements to include in the contract are

✅  Scope of work, including project goals, deliverables, and timelines

✅  Payment terms, such as rates, invoicing, and payment schedules

✅  Intellectual property rights and ownership

✅  Confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements

✅  Termination clauses and dispute resolution procedures

What does it cost to hire an animator?

The cost of hiring an animator can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of animation you need, the complexity of the project, the geographic location of the animator, and the experience of the animator. Freelance animators may charge anywhere from $25 to $150+ per hour, while American animation studios may charge anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 or more for each minute of animation they create for you.

If you are hiring an animator to create a 2d animation, expect to spend $1,500-$10,000 per minute animation they are creating. Multiply the price 2-3x for 3D animation. At VideoIgniter.com, we offer competitive rates for our animation services that are tailored to each client’s unique needs and budget. Our rates are transparent and include unlimited revisions, so you won’t have to worry about any hidden fees or charges.

Deep Dive: How Much Does It Cost To Hire An Animator?

How long does it take for an animator to create a video?

That answer depends on:

• The length of the video.
• How detailed the animation is going to be.
• Are you providing the script + storyboard or are you hiring the animator to create them for you?
• 2D or 3D animation?
• How quickly you respond to feedback when the animator sends you project files to review.

To give you a ballpark range, it takes about 4-5 weeks for 1 animator to create a 60 second, 2D animated video. 3D animated videos take 2-4x more time to create.

What Type of Animator Should You Hire?

Before searching for an animator for hire, determine what type of animation your project actually requires. “Animator” is a broad term that can describe professionals with very different specialties.

Hiring someone with the right specialization can make a significant difference in both the quality of the finished video and the efficiency of the production process.

2D Animator

A 2D animator creates animation using two-dimensional artwork. This can include character animation, motion graphics, illustrated scenes, kinetic typography, explainer videos, advertisements, educational videos, and social media content.

A 2D animator may be the right choice if you want a stylized, illustrated, playful, or graphic look without the additional production requirements associated with 3D animation.

3D Animator

A 3D animator works with three-dimensional models, environments, lighting, cameras, textures, and visual effects.

Consider hiring a 3D animator if your project requires realistic product visualization, complex environments, simulations, realistic characters, architectural visualization, or a cinematic visual style.

3D animation can require significantly more production work because models, textures, lighting, rigs, and other assets may need to be created before animation can begin.

Motion Graphics Animator

Motion graphics animators specialize in animated graphic design elements such as text, logos, icons, charts, diagrams, shapes, and interfaces.

This type of animator can be a good fit for corporate videos, presentations, advertisements, product demonstrations, social media videos, and B2B marketing content.

Character Animator

If your project revolves around animated characters, look for an animator with demonstrated character animation experience.

Character animation requires more than simply moving an illustration around the screen. Good character animation involves posing, timing, facial expressions, body mechanics, gestures, and other details that make a character feel believable.

Explainer Video Animator

Some animators specialize in business and explainer videos. These projects typically combine scriptwriting, storyboarding, illustration, voiceover, sound design, and animation.

If your primary goal is to explain a product, service, process, or concept, finding an animator or animation team experienced in explainer videos can be more useful than simply hiring someone based on their general animation skills.

How to Evaluate an Animator’s Portfolio

An animator’s portfolio is one of the most important things to review before hiring them, but don’t judge a portfolio solely by whether you like the overall aesthetic.

Instead, look for evidence that the animator can solve the specific creative problem your project presents.

Start by asking whether the portfolio contains work similar to your project. If you need a 3D product animation, for example, a portfolio consisting entirely of 2D character animation may not tell you much about the animator’s ability to produce your project.

Pay attention to several areas:

Animation quality: Does movement look intentional and polished? Are transitions smooth? Do characters move naturally?

Design quality: Are the illustrations, environments, typography, and compositions professionally designed?

Storytelling: Does the animation communicate an idea clearly, or does it primarily showcase visual effects?

Consistency: Do visual elements maintain a consistent style throughout each project?

Range: Can the animator work in different visual styles when necessary?

Technical complexity: Does the portfolio demonstrate the level of technical ability your project requires?

You should also determine whether the person you’re considering actually produced the work shown in the portfolio. Larger projects may involve multiple artists, designers, animators, editors, and other specialists. If you’re hiring an individual animator, ask which parts of each example they personally handled.

How to Hire an Animator for a Specific Project

The process becomes much easier when you provide prospective animators with enough information to understand what you’re asking them to create.

Before contacting an animator for hire, prepare a basic project brief.

Your brief should ideally include:

• The purpose of the video
• Your target audience
• The desired video length
• The type of animation
• Your brand guidelines
• A script, if one already exists
• A storyboard, if one already exists
• The desired delivery date
• Where the video will be used
• Examples of visual styles you like
• The required video dimensions or aspect ratios
• Your approximate budget
• Any required characters, products, logos, or other assets

You don’t need to know exactly how the animation will be produced. That’s part of what you’re hiring the animator to determine.

However, giving the animator enough context allows them to provide a much more accurate estimate and identify potential problems before production begins.

What Should an Animator Deliver?

Before hiring an animator, clarify exactly what you will receive when the project is complete.

A basic animation project may include a finished video file, but more comprehensive animation production can involve many additional deliverables.

Depending on your project, you may want to receive:

• A final high-resolution video
• Versions optimized for social media
• Vertical and horizontal versions
• A version with captions
• A version without captions
• Individual animated clips
• Thumbnail artwork
• Source project files
• Illustration or design assets
• Audio stems
• Voiceover files
• Music and sound effects
• Alternate versions with different CTAs

If you anticipate using the animation in multiple marketing campaigns, discuss those requirements before production starts.

For example, it may be considerably easier to create a vertical version while the animation is being produced than to redesign the entire video months later.

What Makes a Good Animator Easy to Work With?

Technical animation ability is only one part of the equation.

An animator can be extremely talented but still be difficult to work with if they consistently miss deadlines, communicate poorly, misunderstand feedback, or fail to manage project files properly.

Look for someone who can explain their process clearly and tell you what they need from you at each stage.

A good animator should also be comfortable receiving feedback.

Animation projects frequently involve subjective creative decisions. You may like a particular character design while another stakeholder prefers something completely different. The animator should be able to separate personal artistic preferences from the requirements of the project.

Responsiveness is also important. Delayed feedback from either side can cause an animation project to fall behind schedule.

For larger projects, project management becomes even more important. If your animation requires scriptwriting, storyboarding, illustration, voiceover, sound design, and animation, you may benefit from hiring an animation team that can coordinate those responsibilities instead of trying to manage every specialist yourself.

Red Flags When Hiring an Animator

There are many talented animators available, but there are also warning signs that should make you reconsider a potential hire.

No Relevant Portfolio Examples

If an animator cannot show examples that demonstrate the skills your project requires, ask them how they plan to approach the project before making a decision.

Extremely Low Quotes

Price should not be the only deciding factor.

An unusually low quote may mean that important services are excluded, the animator has limited experience, the production process is less comprehensive, or the final quality may not meet your expectations.

Ask exactly what is included before comparing quotes.

Unclear Revision Policy

Find out how many rounds of revisions are included and what qualifies as a revision.

It’s also useful to understand whether changes requested after a particular production stage can result in additional costs.

No Clear Timeline

A professional animator should be able to provide a reasonable estimate of how long the project will take.

The exact timeline may change as the scope develops, but there should be a general production schedule with milestones.

Poor Communication

If communication is already difficult before you hire the animator, the problem is unlikely to disappear after production begins.

Pay attention to how quickly they respond, whether they answer your questions directly, and whether they clearly explain what they need from you.

No Written Agreement

Always establish the project scope, pricing, deliverables, payment terms, revision policy, ownership, and timeline in writing before production begins.

Should You Hire One Animator or an Animation Team?

For a small project, hiring a single animator can make sense. A talented freelancer may be able to handle the entire project from start to finish, particularly if the script, storyboard, artwork, voiceover, and other assets are already available.

Larger or more complex projects can benefit from an animation team.

An animation production team may include:

• Producer or project manager
• Scriptwriter
• Art director
• Illustrator
• Storyboard artist
• Animator
• Voiceover artist
• Sound designer
• Video editor

The advantage of a team is that each person can focus on their specialty. This can be especially useful when producing longer videos, multiple videos, sophisticated 3D animation, or an ongoing series of animated videos.

The disadvantage is that working with multiple specialists can increase project management requirements if you have to coordinate everyone yourself.

For businesses that don’t have an internal creative team, an animation studio can provide a middle ground: you get access to multiple specialists while communicating primarily with one production team.

How to Give Better Feedback to an Animator

The quality of your feedback can directly affect the efficiency of the animation project.

Instead of saying that a scene “doesn’t feel right,” explain what isn’t working and what outcome you want.

For example, instead of:

“I don’t like this scene.”

Try:

“The product isn’t clear enough in this scene. Can we make it larger and reduce the background elements so the viewer immediately understands what we’re showing?”

Specific feedback gives the animator something actionable to work with.

It’s also helpful to consolidate feedback whenever possible. If five people on your team review an animation independently and send separate emails containing conflicting changes, production can become unnecessarily complicated.

Designate one person to collect internal feedback and provide the animator with one organized list of revisions.

This approach reduces confusion and helps keep the project moving.

How to Prepare Before Hiring an Animator

You don’t need to have every detail figured out before contacting an animator, but preparing a few key pieces of information can make the hiring process much easier.

Start by identifying the purpose of the animation.

Ask yourself:

What do I want viewers to understand?

Who needs to understand it?

What should viewers do after watching?

Where will the animation be shown?

How long should the video be?

What visual style fits the brand?

When does the finished video need to be delivered?

What is the available production budget?

Once you have answers to these questions, you can provide potential animators with a much clearer project brief.

You should also collect a few examples of animation styles you like. These examples don’t need to come from the animator you’re considering. They can come from advertisements, explainer videos, films, websites, social media, or other sources.

Visual references are often much easier for an animator to interpret than descriptions such as “modern,” “professional,” or “fun.”

How to Compare Animator Quotes

When you receive several quotes from animators for hire, don’t automatically select the cheapest option.

Instead, compare what each quote actually includes.

For example, one animator might provide a low price for animation only while another quote includes scriptwriting, storyboarding, custom illustration, voiceover, music, sound effects, editing, and several rounds of revisions.

Those aren’t equivalent offers.

Create a simple comparison that considers:

• Total project price
• Animation style
• Video length
• Production timeline
• Scriptwriting
• Storyboarding
• Illustration
• Voiceover
• Music
• Sound effects
• Editing
• Number of revisions
• Source files
• Additional video formats
• Usage and ownership rights

This gives you a better understanding of the actual value you’re receiving.

The cheapest animator for hire isn’t necessarily the least expensive option if poor communication, missed deadlines, or extensive rework ultimately increase the total cost of the project.

When Should You Hire an Animator?

It’s generally better to hire an animator before you have finalized every creative detail rather than waiting until the last minute.

An animator can often provide valuable input about what is realistic within your budget and timeline.

For example, you may have an idea that sounds simple but would require extensive character rigging, 3D modeling, or custom illustration. An experienced animator can identify those requirements early and suggest alternative approaches.

Similarly, if your budget is limited, an animator can help simplify the visual concept without eliminating the central message.

Give yourself enough time for the complete production process, including creative development, scriptwriting, storyboarding, illustration, animation, feedback, revisions, rendering, and final delivery.

Last-minute animation projects may be possible, but rush production can limit your creative options and potentially increase costs.

How to Get the Most Value From an Animator You Hire

The best way to get value from an animator isn’t necessarily to negotiate the lowest possible price. It’s to make sure the animator’s time is being spent on the work that has the greatest impact on your project.

Provide existing brand assets whenever possible. Give the animator access to your logo files, fonts, brand guidelines, product screenshots, photography, illustrations, and other assets that can be used in the project.

Have your internal stakeholders review the script and storyboard before animation begins. Changes are generally easier to make during the planning stages than after detailed animation has already been completed.

Think about future uses for the animation as well. If you know that you will need social media clips, advertisements, presentation graphics, or alternate versions, communicate those requirements upfront.

Most importantly, give the animator a clear objective.

A professional animator doesn’t simply move objects around a screen. They translate an idea into visual communication. The clearer the objective, audience, and desired outcome, the more effectively they can use animation to accomplish it.

Tips for Working with an Animator Remotely

If you’re working with an animator remotely, there are several tips you can follow to ensure a smooth working relationship.

1). Establish clear lines of communication and agree on a schedule for check-ins and updates.

2). Use project management tools to keep track of the project’s progress, such as Video Igniter, Frame.io, Asana or Trello.

3). Be flexible and open to feedback and revisions throughout the process.

Why Hire VideoIgniter.com?

While there are many animators for hire online, VideoIgniter.com stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, the team at VideoIgniter.com has extensive experience in creating high-quality animations for businesses of all sizes and industries.

Video Igniter has a proven track record of delivering exceptional results for clients ranging from small startups to Fortune 500 companies. Additionally, Video Igniter offers a wide range of animation services, including 2D and 3D animation, whiteboard animation, and explainer videos.

We also offer competitive pricing and work with clients to ensure that their animations are delivered on time and on budget.

Check out our demo reel!

Still have questions about hiring an animator?

Do you have a question about hiring an animator 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.

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.”

Anonymous Customer Feedback

Get in touch!

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video 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 for your video and we’ll begin production as soon as we receive your production deposit.

Looking for someone to help with video animated production? Video Igniter Animation is an online animated video production company that makes custom animated videos for businesses, brands, agencies, video production companies, startups, non profits and anyone that thinks it would be fun to see their idea turned into an animated video.

If you have a question about animated video production that isn’t answered in this article, you can use our contact form to ask your question or click the image below to with a member of our production team:

What is animated video production?

Animation – aka animated video production is the art of hand drawing images or using computers to create custom illustrations that create the illusion that the images are in motion. Movies are created by displaying 10-60 images per second in rapid succession to seemingly create a picture that looks like it is moving.

Hand drawn animations require large teams of talented illustrators to individually draw and add color and texture to every scene.

Modern computer animation dramatically simplifies the animated video production process by providing tools to animators so they can digitally manipulate a smaller number of images in order to create an animation – as opposed to hand drawing every single frame individually.

How do I find animated video producers

Websites like Upwork and Fiverr can help you find cheap freelance animators. YouTube, Behance, Vimeo, Instagram and Google are all great places to find beautiful animations and connect with studios and creatives.

Shameless Plug: Video Igniter was designed to provide outsourced animation production services through the Internet to clients around the world. Here are 20+ reasons companies love outsourcing animated video projects to us.

What to look for when hiring an explainer video company

Animation Style References

The most important thing you can do when hiring an animator is to review samples of other videos they’ve created. Does their work demonstrate the ability to make good design decisions? Are they able to produce an animated video similar to the visual style you want for your video?

Project Availability

How many projects they take on at once and how your project will be prioritized relative to their other projects? Is there enough time to complete your animation on time before the deadline? Maybe you’ll need to explore rush delivery animation to speed up production.

Responsiveness

What are your expectations when it comes to customer service? Do you need the to collaborate with your animator in-person? Or can you work remotely? Are timezones going to be an issue?  How quickly do you expect a response from your animator? Make sure to discuss responsiveness and estimated turnaround times for your project.

Storytelling Ability

When you hire an animator, you’ll want to make sure they’re a competent storyteller. There are a lot of amazing visual artists out there that haven’t connected the dots between the art of storytelling and the art of visual design. If you love their artistic ability but you aren’t a fan of their story telling skills, consider writing the script and making the storyboard for your animated video and just rely on them to create the animations for your video.

Revisions Policy

Check to see what kind of revision policy your video animator offers. If you aren’t paying your animator by the hour, make sure you check to see how many revisions are included in the flat rate you were quoted for the project. Most animators and studios only offer 1-3 rounds of revisions before they will need to charge you extra.

Audio

How’s the audio in their videos? Do the voiceovers sound clean and professional? Does the background music enhance the video or distract you?

More Tips

For more tips on what to look for when you want to hire an animator, check out this companion article:

How do I hire an animated video production company?

Looking for someone to produce your animated video but not sure where to start? Whether you’re looking to hire an animation studio, a freelance animator, or a production service like Video Igniter Animation, there are many factors to consider including: pricing, visual style, storytelling, customer service, production timelines and more.

Here are some resources to help you figure out the right production option for your video:

• 9 Things to Look For When Hiring An Animator to create an animated video.
• How to outsource an animated video project?
• How do you hire an animator?
• Pros and Cons of Different Animation Styles
• What’s the difference between hiring an animation studio, a freelance animator and Video Igniter?
• What goes into production cost of an animated video?
• Considering making the animated video yourself? Learn about DIY options.
• Need your video fast? Learn about rush delivery.
• What is Video Igniter Animation?

What animated video services does Video Igniter offer?

Video Igniter Animation can help you create any kind of custom 2D or 3D animated video you can imagine. We can help you:

• Create all types of 2D and 3D animated videos.
• Write your script
• Create your storyboard
• Translate your animated video into other languages
• Optimize your video so more people click play, watch your video longer and engage with your CTA at the end of your video.
• Run paid promotions for your ad to get more exposure and awareness for your company and video (let us know when you get a quote).

See this page for a comprehensive list of services Video Igniter offers.

Looking help with animated corporate video production?

Visit: https://videoigniter.com/animated-corporate-video/

How does the animated explainer video production process work?

If you’re like us and prefer learning by watching videos instead of reading, we created a video that explains what the animated video production process is like. Below is a more detailed writeup about what to expect during each stage of the production process:

Script

The first step of the production process is writing the script for your animated video. You can hire Video Igniter or your animated video producer to write the script for you. Or you can write the script yourself to speed up production and save money on your production budget.

If we’re writing your script, we’ll start by sending you a questionnaire to learn about what you want us to talk about in your video and who the intended audience is. We’ll use this information to draft a script that is designed to speak to your target audience.

We’ll send you the first draft so that you can review it and let us know if we need to make any changes to the script. If you love it as-is, we’ll proceed to creating the storyboard. Otherwise we’ll continue to work with you to revise the script until you are thrilled with it.

Script Writing Downloadable Resource

If you want to write the script yourself, check out our script writing resources and download our script writing template.

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Storyboard

Now that your script is production-ready, it’s time to create the storyboard. The storyboard is like the blueprint for your animated video. It tells the illustrators what they are supposed to create and it explains to the animators how they are supposed to make the images move.  Video Igniter (or your animated video creator) can help you develop the storyboard or you create it yourself to speed up production and save money on your production budget. Storyboards are important for production because if the production team doesn’t have consensus with you about what they’re supposed to create, it can lead to extra production costs and more time needed to finish your animated video.

Here’s a diagram of what each page of your storyboard will look like:

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

Each slide contains:

– a sentence from your script

– a rough mockup of the scene

– directions for the animators

– a list of all the assets needed to create the scene (audio and visual)

After we create the first draft of your storyboard, you will get a chance to review it and send us feedback. We will continue to work with you to revise your storyboard until you are 100% satisfied with the direction of your animated video project.

Animated Video Production Budget Saver

Want to save hundreds of dollars off the cost of your production budget? Download our free storyboard creation template and storyboard creation guide.

VoiceOver

After your script and storyboard are locked in, we can audition voiceover talent for your animated video. For most projects, we’ll order auditions from multiple voiceover talents so that you can listen to what each of them sound like while they read a few sentences from your voiceover. If you love one of the auditions, we’ll hire them to record the full voiceover and coach them through the energy, pacing and pronunciation of your script. Not in love with any of the auditions? Let us know why and we’ll happily order up some new auditions for you to listen to.

Soundtrack

Our sound team will identify several soundtracks that we can license for your animated video and run them by you to review. If you’re in love with one of the options, we’ll procure the appropriate broadcast rights for the soundtrack. Not a fan of any of the soundtracks? Let us know what you’re feeling and we’ll select some new options for you to consider. Or, maybe you like several of the soundtrack options and can’t decide which one is best? In that case, we’ll help you preview each of your selected soundtracks alongside your animated video when the first draft is ready. This way, you can hear which soundtracks feels right within the context of your animated video.

For more tips on soundtrack selection, read our animated video soundtrack selection guide.

Illustrations

As soon as your storyboard is approved, the art team will begin the process of creating the custom illustrations for your animated video. First, the art director will review your branding and any style references you provided. Then, they will select a key scene from your animated video and design that scene one or more times using a custom designed visual style. The art director will send the concept art to you and wait for your feedback.

If you love one of the pieces of concept art as-is, let the art director know and they will begin creating the rest of the art for your animated video using the approved concept art as a style reference.

If you love aspects of multiple pieces of concept art, let the art director know. They will use your feedback to integrate the best aspects of all the concept art you loved and create a new piece of concept art for you to approve or send additional feedback on.

Not in love with any of the concept art? That’s totally ok! Just let us know your honest feedback and we’ll continue working with you to create the perfect visual style for your animated video before we produce the rest of the art.

Once the illustration team has finished creating all the custom art for your video, they’ll send it over to you and give you a chance to send feedback and revision notes for each scene. We’ll review your notes, incorporate the revisions and send the art back to you to review and sign off before we move on to animation.

Animation

Finally – the art and voiceover are approved and we can dive into animation! It takes about a minute to animate each minute of video. If we’re making a longer video for you, we’ll discuss options for speeding up animation by adding additional animators to the project. When the first draft is ready, we recommend giving it a detailed internal review and previewing it with members of your target audience to ensure the content is easy to understand, memorable and relatable.  Collect all your feedback, send us your revisions and we’ll incorporate them into the final draft of your custom animated video.

Examples of videos created with our animated video production services:

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.

How long does it take to make an animated video?

It takes 3-8 weeks to create a 1-2 minute 2D animated video. 3D animated videos take about twice as much time to produce. Want to learn more about what’s involved at each stage of the production process and how long each part of production takes? Check out this companion article.

How much does video animated production cost?

Most animated videos cost between $1500-$7500 to create each 60 seconds of custom 2D animation. 3D animated videos easily cost twice as much to produce. To learn more about what goes into the cost of making an animated video, check out this companion article: What goes into the cost of an explainer video?

For the latest production rates from Video Igniter, request access to our price sheet here.

Benefits of Video Animated Production for Businesses

Video animated production is more than just a creative process—it’s a strategic tool for businesses. Unlike traditional live-action video, animation gives brands the flexibility to explain complex topics in a simple, engaging way. Animated videos can condense technical processes, product demonstrations, or data-driven insights into easy-to-digest visuals that audiences actually enjoy watching.

For startups, animated production helps them look polished and professional without the heavy costs of a live-action shoot. Larger companies use animated video to maintain brand consistency across global markets, since visuals can be easily updated and localized. Nonprofits and educational organizations benefit from video animated production because it keeps audiences emotionally engaged and inspired to take action.

Types of Video Animated Production

Not all animated videos are created the same. Depending on your goals, different production styles may be more effective:

• 2D Animation – A cost-effective and versatile choice for explainer videos, tutorials, and storytelling.
• 3D Animation – Offers depth, realism, and cinematic quality for product demos, architectural walkthroughs, or immersive experiences.
• Motion Graphics – Perfect for presenting data, infographics, and professional presentations.
• Whiteboard Animation – Great for step-by-step explanations or educational content.
• Cel Animation – A hand-drawn style that feels organic and artistic, ideal for brands seeking a unique identity.

When considering video animated production, it’s important to align the animation style with your message and target audience.

Why Video Animated Production Outperforms Static Content

In today’s crowded digital landscape, static content often gets ignored. Animated video, on the other hand, captures attention within the first few seconds. Eye-catching motion, vibrant colors, and dynamic storytelling keep viewers engaged longer than text or still images.

Studies show that people retain up to 95% of a message when it’s delivered through video, compared to just 10% from text. That makes animated video production one of the most powerful tools for boosting brand recall, driving conversions, and improving overall marketing ROI.

Video Animated Production for Marketing Campaigns

Animation isn’t just for explainer videos—it can power every stage of a marketing campaign. Brands use animated production for:

• Social Media Ads – Short, punchy animated clips are perfect for TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
• Email Campaigns – Adding animated GIFs or micro-videos increases click-through rates.
• Website Landing Pages – An animated hero video immediately captures interest and reduces bounce rates.
• Event Promotions – Animated teasers build hype for webinars, trade shows, or product launches.

With its adaptability, video animated production ensures that your content can be repurposed across multiple platforms without losing impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Video Animated Production

Even with a talented team, animated video projects can go off track if you’re not careful. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:

1. Skipping Pre-Production Planning – Jumping into animation without a solid script and storyboard can lead to miscommunication and costly revisions.
2. Overcomplicating the Message – Too much detail can overwhelm viewers. Keep scripts simple and concise.
3. Ignoring the Target Audience – A highly polished animation is useless if it doesn’t connect with the people you’re trying to reach.
4. Underestimating Timelines – High-quality animated production takes time. Rushed deadlines often result in lower-quality output.
5. Neglecting Audio – Crisp voiceovers and carefully chosen music tracks make as much impact as the visuals.

How to Plan a Successful Video Animated Production Project

A successful video animated production project starts before an animator opens their software. While the creative production itself is important, the decisions made before and around production can have a major impact on how effective the finished video will be.

Businesses that approach animated video production as both a creative project and a communication strategy are more likely to end up with a video that serves a specific purpose rather than simply looking impressive.

Here are several additional factors to consider when planning your next video animated production project.

Define the Business Objective Before Starting Production

One of the first questions to answer is not “What should the animation look like?” but “What should this video accomplish?”

An animated video might be designed to generate leads, explain a product, introduce a company, increase product adoption, support a sales team, answer customer questions, or educate an audience. Each objective can require a different approach to the video’s structure and presentation.

For example, a product video designed for a landing page may need to move quickly toward a call to action. A sales enablement video may need to provide more detailed information that helps a salesperson explain a complicated product. An onboarding video may prioritize clarity and comprehension over entertainment.

Defining the objective early gives the video animated production team a standard against which creative decisions can be evaluated.

Identify the Viewer and Their Level of Knowledge

The same animated video can perform very differently depending on who watches it.

Before production begins, consider what your audience already knows about the subject. Are they seeing your product for the first time, or are they existing customers who already understand the basics?

This distinction is especially important for technical, financial, healthcare, software, and B2B animation.

If the audience is unfamiliar with the subject, the video may need to introduce basic concepts before presenting more complicated information. If the audience is highly knowledgeable, spending too much time explaining obvious concepts can make the video feel slow.

It can also help to consider the viewer’s job role, industry, age range, geographic market, and reason for watching the video. These details can influence vocabulary, examples, pacing, humor, visual references, and the overall tone of the production.

Create a Visual Hierarchy

An animated video can contain a tremendous amount of visual information. If every element receives the same amount of attention, however, the viewer may not know where to look.

A professional video animated production should establish a clear visual hierarchy. Important information should generally receive more visual emphasis than supporting information.

Animation can create this hierarchy through scale, movement, position, contrast, timing, and depth.

For example, when presenting an important statistic, the number itself might become the dominant visual element while secondary information remains smaller and less animated. When demonstrating software, the interface element being discussed can be emphasized while unrelated parts of the screen become visually subdued.

This approach makes animation more than decoration. Motion becomes a tool for directing the viewer’s attention.

Plan for Different Video Formats and Platforms

Another consideration that should be addressed before production is where the finished video will be used.

A video created exclusively for a website may have different requirements from one intended for YouTube, LinkedIn, television, digital advertising, presentations, or vertical social media platforms.

Think about the required:

• Aspect ratio
• Video resolution
• Frame rate
• Maximum file size
• Caption requirements
• Video length
• Audio specifications
• Platform-specific safe areas

Planning these requirements before production can prevent the team from having to redesign scenes later.

It can also be worthwhile to plan for multiple versions of the same production. For example, a company might produce a primary 90-second video while also creating 30-second, 15-second, square, and vertical versions. Designing the original animation with these future adaptations in mind can make the overall production more efficient.

Consider Accessibility During Video Animated Production

Accessibility should be considered during the creative process rather than added as an afterthought.

Captions are one of the most important accessibility features for animated videos. They allow people who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as viewers watching without sound, to understand the narration.

Visual accessibility is also important. Text should have sufficient contrast against its background, important information should not be communicated exclusively through color, and on-screen text should remain readable at the size at which the video will actually be viewed.

Depending on the audience and distribution environment, a production may also benefit from audio descriptions, transcripts, accessible versions, or other accommodations.

Building accessibility into the video animated production workflow from the beginning can be considerably easier than trying to retrofit these elements after the video has already been completed.

Think About Localization Before Designing the Video

Companies operating internationally should consider localization before the animation is produced. Translating your video into other languages is a great way to extend your video’s reach.

Translating the voiceover isn’t always enough. Different languages can require significantly different amounts of screen space. A sentence that fits comfortably in English may become substantially longer after translation into another language.

On-screen text, graphics, character dialogue, typography, and timing may therefore need to be designed with localization in mind.

A production team can also structure the project so that certain text and graphics can be replaced without rebuilding an entire scene. This can make it much easier to create localized versions for different countries.

Planning localization during video animated production can save significant time when a company eventually expands the video’s use into additional markets.

Establish Ownership and Usage Rights

Businesses should also clarify intellectual property and usage rights before production begins.

An animated video can contain numerous creative components, including illustrations, music, voiceover recordings, fonts, stock assets, logos, sound effects, and original animation. The client should understand what rights they receive when the project is completed and whether any third-party assets have usage restrictions.

For example, licensing terms may differ depending on whether a soundtrack is being used in an internal training video, online advertisement, broadcast commercial, or worldwide marketing campaign.

It is also useful to clarify whether the client will receive only the finished video or whether editable project files and source assets are included.

Having these details documented before production helps prevent misunderstandings after the animation is finished.

Determine Who Needs to Approve the Video

Large organizations often have multiple people involved in approving creative work. Marketing may have one opinion, legal may have another, and product, sales, communications, or executive stakeholders may have additional requirements.

If everyone reviews the video independently and sends feedback at different times, production can become unnecessarily complicated.

Before video animated production begins, identify the people who have actual approval authority. Establish who provides feedback, who consolidates comments, and who gives final approval.

This creates a clear decision-making structure and prevents situations where a video is considered approved by one department only to be reopened by another stakeholder later.

Take a look at our checklist to learn how to properly review each deliverable for your animated video.

Build a Versioning Strategy

Many businesses discover after completing an animated video that they need additional variations.

A single production might eventually need different versions for different audiences, products, regions, campaigns, or sales channels.

For this reason, it can be useful to think about versioning before production starts.

For example, a company could design a master animation that allows the team to easily replace:

• Product names
• Pricing information
• Statistics
• Calls to action
• Website addresses
• Voiceovers
• Languages
• Brand elements

This approach can turn one animation project into a reusable content asset rather than a one-time video.

Use a Review Process That Matches the Production Stage

Not every type of feedback is equally useful at every stage of production.

Early reviews are the appropriate time to discuss major creative decisions. Later reviews should generally focus on refinement and technical accuracy.

For example, changing the fundamental story after animation is complete can require substantially more work than changing a small visual detail. Likewise, discovering that the wrong product feature was demonstrated after a scene has been fully animated can create unnecessary production work.

A strong video animated production workflow therefore establishes clear approval milestones. The client should know what is being approved at each stage and what types of changes are still practical afterward.

Prepare the Video for Sales and Internal Teams

Animated videos aren’t necessarily limited to public marketing campaigns. They can become useful tools for employees and sales teams as well.

A product animation can help a salesperson demonstrate a complicated feature during a presentation. A company overview can help new employees understand the organization. A technical animation can give customer support representatives a visual resource to share with customers.

When planning video animated production, consider whether the finished asset could serve additional internal purposes.

A video originally created for marketing might also become part of a sales presentation, onboarding program, customer-support library, trade-show display, or internal communications campaign.

Measure More Than Views

Video views are useful, but they don’t necessarily tell you whether an animated video accomplished its business objective.

Depending on the purpose of the production, useful metrics may include:

• Average watch time
• Percentage of viewers who reach the end
• Click-through rate
• Conversion rate
• Lead generation
• Product sign-ups
• Demo requests
• Sales-assisted conversions
• Engagement from specific audience segments

The right measurement strategy depends on where the video appears and what the business is trying to accomplish.

For example, an animated advertisement may be judged primarily on cost per acquisition, while an onboarding animation may be evaluated according to completion rate and subsequent product usage.

Treat Animated Video as a Reusable Business Asset

One of the biggest advantages of professional video animated production is that the finished video can potentially remain useful long after its initial launch.

Instead of thinking of an animation as a single marketing deliverable, consider how its underlying creative assets might be reused.

Individual scenes can potentially become short-form social content. Illustrations can be incorporated into presentations. Character artwork can be used in educational materials. Short clips can support email campaigns or paid advertisements.

A well-planned production can therefore create a library of visual assets that supports future marketing and communications efforts.

The Best Video Animated Production Combines Creativity and Strategy

The quality of an animated video isn’t determined solely by how sophisticated the animation looks. A visually impressive production can still fail if it communicates the wrong message, targets the wrong audience, uses an ineffective format, or doesn’t provide viewers with a clear next step.

Effective video animated production combines creative execution with strategic planning. The production team needs to understand not only how to animate the project, but also why the video is being created, who will watch it, where it will be distributed, and what the business hopes viewers will do afterward.

By considering audience, objectives, accessibility, distribution requirements, localization, rights management, approval structures, versioning, and measurement before production begins, businesses can get substantially more value from their investment in animated video.

Video Animated Production for Training and Education

Beyond marketing, animated videos are incredibly effective for learning and development. Training employees through animation increases engagement and reduces costs compared to traditional seminars or printed manuals.

E-learning platforms often rely on video animated production to simplify technical content and keep learners motivated. Complex concepts—such as compliance policies, software tutorials, or medical procedures—become easier to understand when paired with animated visuals and step-by-step narration.

Future Trends in Video Animated Production

The animation industry is constantly evolving, and businesses that stay ahead of trends can maximize their impact:

• AI-Assisted Animation – Artificial intelligence is speeding up the production process while reducing costs.
• Interactive Animated Videos – Viewers can now click, choose, and influence the story path.
• AR and VR Integration – Animated production is expanding into immersive experiences for training, sales, and entertainment.
• Personalized Animation – Custom-tailored animated content, such as videos that include a viewer’s name or industry, creates stronger emotional connections.
• Hybrid Production – Combining live-action footage with animated elements is becoming increasingly popular for unique storytelling.

By embracing these trends, brands can future-proof their video marketing strategies.

How to Maximize ROI from Video Animated Production

Producing an animated video is just the first step. To maximize your investment, it’s essential to distribute your video strategically. Upload it to your website, share it on social platforms, include it in email campaigns, and consider running paid ads to extend its reach.

Additionally, track performance metrics such as watch time, click-through rates, and conversions. This data not only proves ROI but also provides insights for refining future animated video productions.

Looking for cheap animated video production?

Custom animated videos require many hours to produce by a talented of multiple designers, animators, story tellers, voiceover artists and project managers. This is the main reason animated videos cost a few thousand dollars to produce. That being said, if you are looking for a cheap way to make an animated video, there are a few options to consider. Check out this resource guide to learn about the different ways you can make cheap animated videos. There are even some ways to make animated videos for free!

What Is The Video Igniter Animated Video Production Site?

Video Igniter offers animated video production services online. We’re modernizing the experience of creating a custom animated video to help you create high quality original content quickly while helping you save $ on your production costs. We streamlined the complex production process for making an animated video and do all the work for you. All you need to do is tell us what you want us to create. We’ll make everything for your video and you tell us what you like and what you want us to revise.

If you’re looking for a website to make an animated video, Video Igniter is a new kind of custom animated video production service that enables you to create any kind of animated video you can imagine. Our talented staff collaborates behind the scenes to create custom 2D and 3D animated videos so you don’t have to figure out if you have the right animator or studio for the kind of animation you want to get created. We handle all the technical and creative aspects of production for you including helping you develop your script and storyboard (if you haven’t already created them yourself).

Hire Video Igniter To Produce Your Animated Video

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Animated Video Production Success Stories and Testimonials

“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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“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

“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

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