If you want to make a video with a studio, you’re in the right place! Video Igniter’s animation studio works with businesses and individuals around the world to turn their ideas into professionally produced custom animated videos.

In this production guide, we’ll answer all of your top questions, including:

• How do I make a video with a studio?
• What does it cost to make a video with a studio?
• How long does it take to make a video with a studio?
• What kinds of videos can I make with Video Igniter’s studio?

Answers to all these questions and more are coming up in this guide – including tips to help you save $1,000 or more off your production budget when you make a video with a studio. But first, let’s take a look at examples of the types of videos you can make with Video Igniter’s studio.

Video Examples

Video Igniter can make any kind of 2D or 3D animation for you. You can see some of our favorite example videos below. For additional production samples, check out our animation portfolio or request access to our demo reels and price sheet.

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

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

How make a video with a studio?

Ready to learn how to make a video with a studio? Video Igniter will guide you through these 7 steps to bring your video to life!

1). Contact Us For A Quote

While you assess different studios for your upcoming video project, we invite you to send us a message to get a quote or schedule a call with our production team to discuss your video project and goals.

Our team will connect with you virtually to learn about the scope of your project and then develop a production timeline and budget to create your video.

When you’re ready to move forward with production, you will receive a production agreement to sign and an invoice for the first 50% of your production budget.

2). Script

The script is the first deliverable our studio creates for your video project. Our writers will connect with you virtually to learn:

• What you want to communicate in your video?
• Who your target audience is?
• What problems your audience experiences?
• What you want your viewers to do when they’re done watching your video?

These questions help our writers develop a video script that conveys your key talking points to your target audience in a compelling way that motivates them to take action when they’re done watching your video.

You will receive a digital copy of the script to review with your team. We invite members of your team to add their feedback directly on the script document. Then, our writers will revise the script and share the 2nd draft with you to review and approve.

If additional edits are needed, we will continue to work with you to revise and polish your script until you love it.

3). Storyboard

The next deliverable our studio creates for your video is the storyboard. The storyboard functions like a blueprint for your video so our producers know what to create. Each page of the storyboard includes:

• A sentence from your script.
• A mockup or sketch of the scene.
• Bullet point instructions that explain how elements will move throughout the scene.

When the first draft is ready, you will receive a digital copy of the storyboard to review with your team. We invite you to add your comments and revision requests directly on the storyboard.

After you submit your revisions, our storyboard artists will integrate your revisions and then share the 2nd draft of the storyboard with you to review and approve. If additional edits are needed, we will continue to work with you to revise and polish your storyboard until it’s perfect.

4). VoiceOver

Our studio’s audio team will select a handful of voiceover options for your video. Give them a listen and let us know which option is your favorite.

We will hire that person to record the full narration and coach them through the proper pacing, tone and energy they should use.

You will receive a copy of the full recording to listen to so you can request edits before we use the audio to make your video.

5). Soundtrack

You will also receive a selection of handpicked soundtrack options for your video. Give them a listen and let us know which option is your favorite. Our studio will take care of acquiring the appropriate license(s) so we can legally use the music when we make your video.

6). Illustrations

Video Igniter’s art director will review your brand guidelines and any style refernces you may have shared. Then, they will create concept art based on scenes from your storyboard using one or more original visual styles.

When you review the concept art, it’s important that you share your honest feedback with our studio about what you like and dislike about each concept. This way, the art director can revise and polish your favorite visual concept until you love it.

After the concept art is approved, the art director will oversee our studio’s team of illustrators while they create all of the custom illustrations for your video. The art director will ensure the illustrators design the art to match the style of the approved concept art. When all of the art is ready, you will get an opportunity to review all of the illustrations and request revisions before we make your video.

7). Animation

Now that everything has been approved, it’s time for our studio to make your video!

Our animators will line up the illustrations so they appear in sync with the timing of the voiceover. Then, they will add motion design to all of the scenes based on the instructions we created in the storyboard.

When the first draft is ready, you will receive a watermarked version of the video to review. We invite you to share the video with your internal team and members of your target audience to collect a wide range of feedback. After you consolidate your revision requests, send them over to us. Our studio will revise your video and render out the 2nd draft for you to review and approve.

Once your video receives final approval, our studio will take an extra day or two to add subtle sound effects and to balance and master the audio levels between the voiceover, soundtrack and sound effects so everything sounds loud and clear.

You will be able to download the final unwatermarked version of your animation after final payment is completed for your project.

How much does it cost to make a video with a studio?

Production costs vary widely based on the style of animation that’s being produced.

In general, most forms of 2D animation can be produced for a cost of $1,750-$7,500 for each minute of video content the studio makes for you. High end forms of 2D animation (also known as hand drawn animation) can cost 2x-4x more than this.

3D animation is more labor intensive than 2D animation. Some 3D animation projects may cost as little as $5,000 for a 60-second video. In most cases, your 3D animation budget is likely to be within the $10,000-$50,000 range to create each minute of content.

To put this into perspective, the average PIXAR film costs over $1,000,000 to produce each minute of the film.

Here are 4 ways to get a quote for our studio to make your video:

• Schedule a call with our production team.
• Send us a message with details about your project.
• Request access to our pricing page.
• Fill out this questionnaire about your video project.

Deep Dive: How much does animation cost?

How long does it take to make a video with a studio?

A 60-second 2D animation will take 4-6 weeks to create. High end forms of 2D animation and 3D animation will take 2x-4x more time to complete the project.

If you need to speed up the production process to met a deadline, send us a message and ask us about rush delivery.

Deep Dive: How long does it take to animate a 1 minute video?

How to save money when you make a video with a studio?

These production tips will help you save $1,000 or when you hire our studio to make your video.

1). Write The Script For Your Video

When you make a video with a studio, you have the option to write the script yourself or have the studio write it for you. If you write the script yourself, you will get a discount of $500 off the price of each minute of video content we create for you. Download our script writing template for tips to help you write your own script.

2). Record The VoiceOver

If you record the voiceover for your video, we will omit voiceover recording costs from your production budget.

3). Use Free (Legal) Music

Sites like Incomptech offer libraries of free music our studio can use when we make your video. If you find a song you want us to use in your video, we’ll omit music licensing costs from your production budget.

4). Create The Storyboard For Your Video

When you make a video with a studio, you also have the option to create the storyboard yourself or hire the studio to make it for you. If you create the storyboard yourself, you can get an additional discount of $500 off the cost of each minute of video content the studio makes for you. Download our storyboard template and review the storyboard creation guide it comes with to see how easy it is to make your own storyboard.

5). Start Production ASAP

The easiest thing you can do to save money on your production budget is to start production as soon as possible. Rush delivery is available if you need to speed up the production process, however, it will increase your production budget by 10%-25% or more! If you want to avoid paying extra for rush delivery, schedule a call with our team ASAP or send us a message so we can start developing a production plan to make your video.

Production Resources To Help You Make A Video With A Studio

These resources are popular among people reading and researching ways to make a video with a studio:

• How To Hire And Work With Animation Studios?
• 2D Animation Studio FAQ.
• How To Find The Best Animation Studio For Your Project?
• What Is An Explainer Video Studio?

Still have questions about how to make a video with a studio?

Do you have a question about how to make a video with a studio 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.

Watch the demo reel below for examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce for you.

Looking For An Animated Video 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.

“Couldn’t be happier with Derek and his team. The quality of the work for the cost far exceeded expectations and surpasses anything in the market. Derek was patient, offered many revisions, and was overall great to work with.”

Alex Novick – Founder, Sproutly.com

“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!

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 looking for an animation company to help you create animated educational videos? If so, you’re in the right place! Video Igniter’s animated video production service is used by companies around the world to create animated educational videos that make it easier for your audience to learn new information.

So, how does this all work?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer all of your top questions about making animated educational videos, including:

• How can Video Igniter create my animated educational videos for me?
• What does it cost to make animated educational videos?
• How long does it take to make animated educational videos?

Answers to all these questions and more are coming up in this guide – including tips to help you save 10%-25% or more off the cost of making your animated educational videos! But first, let’s take a look at examples of animated educational videos that Video Igniter’s production team can create for you.

Examples of Animated Educational Videos

Video Igniter can make any kind of 2D or 3D animated educational video for you. You can see some of our favorite example videos below. For additional production samples, check out our animation portfolio or request access to our demo reels and price sheet.

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

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

How to make animated educational videos with Video Igniter?

When you’re ready to start making animated educational videos, get in touch with our team and we’ll guide you through these 7 steps to bring your ideas to life.

1). Get a Quote

Before we start making your animated educational videos, our team will work with you to develop a production timeline and a budget for your videos to ensure we’re a good fit. Here are 4 ways you can get a quote for your animated educational videos:

1). Send Us A Message

2). Schedule A Call With Our Team

3). Request Access To Our Pricing Page

4). Fill Out This Questionnaire

A member of our team will follow up with you via email to confirm the scope of the project and ask any follow up questions. Once we agree to the scope of the project, you will receive a production contract to sign and an invoice for 50% of your production budget.

2). Script

After we receive your production deposit and the signed production agreement, Video Igniter’s copywriters will meet with you virtually to develop the scripts for your animated educational videos. The writers will ask you questions like:

• Who is your target audience?
• What key messages do you want to communicate and educate people about in your videos?
• What do you want to show in your animated educational videos?

With this information in hand, our writers will develop the first draft of the script for your videos. You will receive a digital copy of the script to review with your team. Give it a thorough review and let us know if there are any revisions you would like to see.

Our writers will integrate your feedback and share the 2nd draft of the script with you to review and approve. If additional edits are needed, our writers will continue to work with you to revise and polish your script until it’s perfect.

3). Storyboard

Next, we’ll create the storyboard for your animated educational videos. The storyboard functions like a blueprint for your animated educational videos. It tells our illustrators and animators exactly what to create. Each page of the storyboard includes:

• A sentence from your script
• A rough mockup of the scene
• Bullet point instructions that describe how things will move in each scene.

You will receive a digital copy of the storyboard to review with your team. While you review the storyboard, help us understand if we’ve included all of the relevant visual details you want to show in your educational animations. If we left out visual details that are important for the viewer’s understanding of the subject material, please let us know so we can add those details into the storyboard.

Once we receive your feedback, our team will integrate your revisions into the storyboard. Then, you will receive the 2nd draft of the storyboard to review and approve with your team. If additional edits are needed, let us know and we’ll continue to work with you to polish your storyboard until you love it.

4). VoiceOver

You will receive a hand picked selection of voiceover auditions for your animated educational videos. Give them a listen and let us know which one is your favorite. We’ll hire that person to record the full narration for your educational videos. You will get an opportunity to listen to the full recording and request revisions before we use the voiceover to make your videos.

5). Soundtrack

You will also receive a selection of soundtrack options for your videos. Give them a listen and let us know which is your favorite. We’ll acquire the appropriate licenses needed so we can legally use the music when we create your animated educational videos.

6). Illustrations

Video Igniter’s art director will review your brand guidelines and style references. Then, they will create multiple pieces of concept art based off scenes from your storyboard.

When you review the concept art, share your honest feedback. Let us know what you like and dislike about each concept. This way, we can revise and polish your favorite concept until it’s perfect.

Then, we’ll create the rest of the art for your animated educational videos based on the style of the approved concept art.

You will get an opportunity to review all of the custom illustrations and request edits before we animate your videos.

7). Animation

Now that everything is approved, it’s time to make your animated educational videos!

The animation process takes about 1 week for each minute of content we produce. If your project is long, we may add additional animators to speed up the production process. Rush delivery is available if you need to guarantee your videos are completed by a specific day.

When the first draft of your animated educational videos are ready, you will receive a link to download all of them. Review the videos with your team and members of your target audience. Collect everyone’s feedback and let us know if there are any parts of the videos that came across as confusing or unclear.

Our animators will integrate your feedback and then render out the 2nd draft of your animated educational videos.

After we get approval on the videos, our audio team will take an extra day or two to add subtle sound effects to the videos. Then, they will balance the audio levels between the music, voiceover and sound effects so everything sounds loud and clear.

You will be able to download unwatermarked copies of your animated educational videos after the final production invoice is paid.

How much does it cost to make animated educational videos?

2D animated educational videos typically cost between $1,750-$7,500 to create each minute of animation – depending on the complexity and style of animation we create. Typically, animated educational videos are on the lower end of this scale because companies generally don’t pay extra for high end design when their goal is to create content that is highly educational.

If you opt to use 3D animation for your videos, your budget might be 2x-4x larger, depending on the complexity of the animation you want us to create.

Here are 4 ways you can get a quote for Video Igniter to make your animated educational videos:

• Send us a message with details about your animated educational videos
• Schedule a call with our production team
• Request access to our pricing page
• Fill out this digital questionnaire about your videos

Deep Dive: How much does animation cost?

How long does it take to make animated educational videos?

Typically, the production process for 2D animated educational videos is about 4-6 weeks for 60-seconds worth of content. If we’re creating multiple animated educational videos, there are ways we can save time by producing multiple videos all at the same time.

To figure out how long it will take to create all of your animated educational videos, send us a message or schedule a call with our team. If you need to speed up the production process, ask us about rush delivery animation.

Deep Dive: How long does it take to animate a 1 minute video?

Budget Saving Tips For Animated Educational Videos

Combine these tips to save 10%-25% or more off your production budget when you hire Video Igniter to create your animated educational videos:

1). Write The Script

Writing the script for your animated educational videos enables you to save $500 off the cost of each minute of content we produce for you. Download our script writing template for tips to help you write and structure the script for your videos.

2). Record The VoiceOver

If you record the voiceover for your animated educational videos, we’ll deduct voiceover recording and licensing costs from your production budget.

3). Use Free (Legal) Music

Sites like Incompetech offer large libraries of free music we can legally use in your animated educational videos.  If you find free music we can legally use in your videos, send it our way and we’ll omit music licensing costs from your production budget.

4). Create The Storyboard

Creating the storyboard for your animated educational videos enables you save an additional $500 off the price of each minute of content we produce for you. Download our storyboard template and read the included storyboard creation guide to see how easy it is to make your own storyboard. No artistic ability needed!

5). Start Production ASAP

The easiest thing you can do to save money on your production budget is to start production as soon as possible. Rush delivery is available if you need to speed up the production process but it will increase your production budget by 10%-25% or more. If you want to keep the production budget for your animated educational videos as low as possible, we recommend you schedule a call with our team ASAP or send us a message so we can start developing a plan to create your animated educational videos.

Production Resources For Animated Educational Videos

These resources are popular among people reading and researching different ways to make animated educational videos:

How To Make An Animated Explainer Video

Animation Services Offered by Video Igniter

Still have questions about animated educational videos?

Do you have a question about making animated educational videos 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.

Watch the demo reel below for examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce for you.

Looking For An Animated Video 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.

“Couldn’t be happier with Derek and his team. The quality of the work for the cost far exceeded expectations and surpasses anything in the market. Derek was patient, offered many revisions, and was overall great to work with.”

Alex Novick – Founder, Sproutly.com

“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!

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.

If you’re looking for an animation studio to help you create a 3D computer animation, you’re in the right place!  Video Igniter is an animated video production company that works with businesses around the world to turn their ideas into custom animated videos.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer all of your top questions about making a 3D computer animation, including:

• How can Video Igniter make a 3D computer animation for me?
• What does it cost to make a 3D computer animation?
• How long does it take to make a 3D computer animation?

Answers to all these questions and more coming up in this comprehensive guide including tips to help you save 10% – 25% or more off of your production budget when you hire Video Igniter to create your 3D computer animation. But first, let’s take a look at examples of 3D computer animations that Video Igniter’s production team can create for you.

3D Computer Animation Examples

Video Igniter can make any kind of 2D or 3D animation for you. You can see some of our favorite example videos below. For additional production samples, check out our animation portfolio or request access to our demo reels and price sheet.

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

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

How to make a 3D computer animation with Video Igniter?

When you’re ready to make a 3D computer animation, Video Igniter will guide you through these steps to bring your idea into reality.

1). Get A Quote

To get things started, send us a message or schedule a call with our team to get a quote for your 3D computer animation. Our team will meet with you virtually or send you questions so we can learn:

• What type of animation you want us to create for you?
• How long the animation will be.
• When do you need the final animation?
• What do you want to show in your 3D computer animation?

Armed with this information, our team will develop a production proposal to create your video. Once we agree to the scope of the project, you will receive an invoice for 50% of your production budget along with a production agreement to sign.

2). Script

After we receive your signed production agreement and the production deposit, we’ll begin work writing the script for your 3D computer animation. Our team will meet with you virtually or send you a list of questions via email so we can learn:

• Who your target audience is.
• What their problem(s) are.
• Your key talking points.
• What you want viewers to do when they’re done watching your animation.

With this information in hand, we’ll develop the first draft of the script for your 3D computer animation. When it’s ready, you will receive a link to review a digital copy of the script with your team. You can add your feedback directly on the script document.

Our writers will revise your script according to the feedback and then share the 2nd draft of the script with you to review and approve. If additional edits are needed, we’ll continue to work with you to revise and polish your script until you love it.

3). Storyboard

Next, we turn your script into a storyboard. The storyboard functions like the blueprint for your 3D computer animation. Each page includes:

• A sentence from your script.
• A rough sketch or mockup of the scene.
• Instructions that explain how elements will move in the scene.

You will receive a digital copy of the storyboard to review with your team. While you review the storyboard, help us make sure we’ve included all of the important visual details that the illustrators need to include. If there are specific visual elements that are important to show, please let us know so we can include documentation for those details in the storyboard.

After we receive your feedback, we’ll integrate your revisions and then share the 2nd draft of the storyboard with you to review and approve. If additional edits are needed, we’ll continue to work with you to revise and polish your storyboard until it’s perfect.

4). VoiceOver

You will receive a selection of voiceover auditions for your 3D computer animation. Give them a listen and let us know which one is your favorite. We’ll hire that person to record the full narration for your animation. We’ll also make sure we properly license the recording so we can legally use it when we make your 3D computer animation. When the full narration is ready, you will get an opportunity to listen to the recording and request edits before we use it to animate your video.

5). Soundtrack

You will also receive a selection of soundtrack options for your 3D computer animation. Give them a listen and let us know which one is your favorite. We’ll acquire the appropriate usage rights so we can legally use the music when we make your animation.

6). Concept Art

Video Igniter’s art director will review your brand guidelines and any style references you shared for your animation. Then, the art director will create multiple pieces of concept art for your 3D computer animation, based off key scenes from your storyboard.

When you review the concept art, share your honest feedback with the art director. Let them know what you like and dislike about each concept. This way, they can polish and perfect your favorite visual concept.

7). 3D Models

After the concept art is approved, our art and modeling teams will create 3D models for everything in your storyboard so it matches the style of the concept art.

At first, all of the models will look like this:

When you review the black and white models, provide feedback to help us refine the shape and form of the objects, characters and scenery we create for your 3D computer animation. After we lock in the shape of the models, we will add color, texture and lighting to each piece. You will get another opportunity at this point to request edits to the models before we use them to animate your video.

8). Animation

Now that everything is approved, it’s time to create your 3D computer animation!

Video Igniter’s animators will assemble all of the 3D models to create each scene in your video. Then, the animators will line up the scenes with the voiceover so everything appears in sync with one another. Finally, the animators will apply motion design to bring everything to life. Depending on the complexity of your 3D computer animation, it can take between 1-4 weeks to create the first draft of your video.

When the first draft is ready, you will receive a link to download a watermarked copy of your 3D computer animation. Share the video with your team and members of your target audience.

Collect everyone’s feedback and send it our way. Then, we’ll integrate all of your revisions and render out the 2nd draft of your 3D computer animation.

After you approve the final draft of the animation, our audio team will add subtle sound effects and then balance the audio levels between the soundtrack, sound effects and voiceover so everything sounds loud and clear.

You will get to download the final unwatermarked version of your 3D computer animation after you pay the final invoice for your project.

How much does it cost to make a 3D computer animation?

If you were to hire an independent animation studio like Video Igniter to create your 3D computer animation, your production budget will range between $5,000-$50,000+ to create each minute of video content.

To put this into perspective, a 90-minute PIXAR animated film costs $100,000,000 to produce – which means each minute of 3D computer animation costs them over $1,000,000 to create.

Here are 4 ways you can get a quote for your 3D computer animation:

1). Send us a message with details about your project.

2). Schedule a call to speak with our production team.

3). Fill out this questionnaire about your video.

4). Request access to our pricing page.

How long does it take to make a 3D computer animation?

Ideally, you should allocate 8-12 weeks to create a custom designed 60-second 3D computer animation. If you need to speed up the production process, send us a message and ask us about rush delivery.

Deep Dive: How long does it take to animate a 1 minute video?

3D Computer Animation Budget Saving Tips

Combine these tips to save 10%-25% or more off your production budget when you hire Video Igniter to create your 3D computer animation.

1). Write The Script

Writing the script for your 3D computer animation earns you a discount of $500 off the price of each minute of content we make for you. Download our script writing template for tips to help you write your video’s script.

2). Record The VoiceOver

If you record the voiceover for your 3D computer animation, we’ll deduct voiceover recording and licensing costs from your production budget.

3). Use Free, Legal Music

Sites like Facebook’s sound collection and Incompetech offer libraries of free music we can legally use in your 3D computer animation. If you select a song you like from one of these sites, we’ll deduct music licensing costs from your production budget.

4). Create The Storyboard

Creating the storyboard for your 3D computer animation earns you an additional discount of $500 off the price of each minute of video we create for you. Download our storyboard template and review the included storyboard creation guide to learn how to make your own storyboard.

5). Start Production ASAP

Rush delivery is available to speed up the production process to meet your deadline – but it can increase your 3D computer animation budget by 10%-25% or more. If you want to minimize or avoid paying extra for rush delivery, schedule a call with our team ASAP or send us a message so we can start preparing to create your 3D computer animation before your deadline.

3D Computer Animation Production Resources

These resources are popular among people reading and researching ways to create a 3D computer animation:

• Learn About Different Types Of Animation
• How To Make A 3D Video
• When To Use 2D Vs 3D Animation

Still have questions about 3D computer animation?

Do you have a question about 3D computer animation 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.

Watch the demo reel below for examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce for you.

Looking For An Animated Video 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.

“Couldn’t be happier with Derek and his team. The quality of the work for the cost far exceeded expectations and surpasses anything in the market. Derek was patient, offered many revisions, and was overall great to work with.”

Alex Novick – Founder, Sproutly.com

“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!

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.

If you’re planning a new animated video for your company and you’re trying to decide if you should use 2D vs 3D animation, you’re in the right place!

This guide will help you understand the differences between using 2D vs 3D animation for your next video project. We’ll answer popular questions like:

• When should I use 2D vs 3D animation for my video?
• What is the cost difference between 2D vs 3D animation?
• How long does it take to make 2D animation vs 3D animation?
• When might I want to use a mix of 2D animation and 3D animation?

Ready? Let’s dive in:

When should I use 2D vs 3D animation?

2D animation and 3D animation have their own unique strengths and drawbacks depending on the type of content you want to create. Most animations are either created for a business purpose (promotions & advertising), educational purposes (classes & customer education) or for an entertaining purpose (movies & TV shows).

Here, we’ll explore the pros and cons of 2D vs 3D animation for each of these use cases to help you decide which style of animation is right for your video’s goals.

2D vs 3D Animation For Business Videos

Animated videos for your business are typically created to help the business increase awareness, generate leads, close sales and educate customers about how to use the product or service they purchased.

Businesses typically make purchasing decisions based on their ROI (return on investment). Because of this, most business videos are made with 2D animation because they cost less to produce which means they can deliver a higher ROI.

Example:

Let’s say your company spends $1,000 on a 2D animation and $1,000 to promote the video (campaign total cost = $2,000). If this campaign generates 5 sales worth $2,000 each ($10,000 total), your ROI is 500%. Excellent results!

Now, let’s say instead of spending $1,000 on a 2D animation, your company decides to spend $4,000 on a fancy 3D animation and $1,000 to promote the video (campaign total cost = $5,000). Hypothetically, if that campaign generates 5 sales worth $2,000 each ($10,000 in total), your ROI is only 200%. Your company still makes money, but they could have generated the same amount of sales by only spending $1,000 on the video and $1,000 promoting it ($8,000 profit) vs spending $4,000 on a video and $1,000 to promote it ($5,000 profit).

This is a very basic example but it’s common practice to evaluate business results based on the financial outcomes of a campaign. Creativity certainly plays a factor which can increase the campaign’s ROI but that’s separate from the monetary value and the time spent creating a 2D vs 3D animation.

There are exceptions to this guideline. Primarily, if your company needs to use 3D animation to visualize something that you can’t show using 2D animation (i.e. a hardware demo or physical process), then it’s likely worth it to spend the extra money to create a 3D animation so your target audience can visualize the details they need to see to understand your product/service/solution.

2D vs 3D Animation For Educational Videos

If you’re making animated educational videos, the decision to use 2D vs 3D animation often comes down to whether the concept you are teaching can be produced using 2D or 3D animation. Whenever possible, use 2D animation to keep costs low. That being said, one of the remarkable advantages of animation is that it can be used to show and explain things that are difficult to understand or difficult to film. If 3D animation is the only way to show what you want to show, use 3D animation.

2D vs 3D Animation For Entertaining Videos

When it comes to make entertaining content, you have a lot more creative freedom in the choice to use 2D vs 3D animation. Budget is certainly a concern but if you are creating videos or movies to entertain people, higher production value is often rewarded with higher engagement and more paying viewers.

If you’re creating an animated video for social media, 2D animation is often the route you want to go because there is still some sort of business ROI attached to the media asset. Sure, 3D animation can be used to create something truly captivating that takes off on social media, but it’s a lot of money to spend on a one-off short video that could quickly get buried in the ocean of online content.

On the flip side, if you’re producing a full length movie that people are paying to see, spending money on a higher production budget means you’ll end up with a higher quality video that people will be more likely to pay to watch.

What is the cost difference between 2D vs 3D animation?

TL;DR: 3D animation costs about 2x-4x more to produce than 3D animation.

In general, most forms of 2D animation can be produced for $1,750-$7,500 for each minute of content that’s being produced. Hand drawn animation also known as Cel Animation or Frame by Frame Animation can cost between $10,000-$25,000+ to animate each minute of footage.

3D animation on the other hand tends to start at $10,000 to create each minute of footage and can easily go up to $25,000-$50,000 to create each minute of video when you hire an independent studio like Video Igniter to make your animation. To put this into perspective, the average PIXAR film costs over $100,000,000 to produce, meaning each minute of the film costs over $1,000,000 to create.

If you’re looking for a quote to make a custom animated video, here are 4 ways Video Igniter can help you generate a quote:

1). Schedule a call with our production team.

2). Send us a message with details about the animation you want us to create.

3). Fill out this digital questionnaire about your video.

4). Request access to our pricing page.

How long does it take to make 2D animation vs 3D animation?

If we’re just talking about short 60-second long animations, it typically takes about 4-6 weeks to create a 2D animation. Hand drawn 2D animation and 3D animation take about 8-12 weeks to create a 60-second animation.

If you need to speed up the production process, send us a message and ask us about rush delivery animation.

When might I want to use a mix of 2D animation and 3D animation?

Unless you’re making a PIXAR style film or short video, there’s a good chance you can get a lot of cost savings by using a mix of 2D animation and 3D animation.

Let’s say you’re in charge of producing a video for your company to show how an engine works. 3D animation is a great way to show how the engine works and what all the parts look like. However, the entire video doesn’t need to be made using 3D animation. You might also have a title scene that’s just 2D text on screen introducing the engine. There might be another scene that uses icons to highlight the unique benefits of your engine ($ signs to indicate the reduced operating cost of the engine, a tree to indicate the engine is eco friendly, etc).

If you need help figuring out how and when to use 2D vs 3D animation for your project, send us a message and our team will work with you to develop a plan that makes cost efficient use of 2D and 3D animation for your next video project.

Still have questions about 2D vs 3D animation?

Do you have a question about 2D vs 3D animation 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.

Watch the demo reel below for examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce for you.

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

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

2D & 3D Animation 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.

“Couldn’t be happier with Derek and his team. The quality of the work for the cost far exceeded expectations and surpasses anything in the market. Derek was patient, offered many revisions, and was overall great to work with.”

Alex Novick – Founder, Sproutly.com

“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!

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 work with an animator or an animation studio to create a custom designed hand drawn animation? If so, you’re in the right place! Video Igniter is the easiest way to make professional quality hand drawn animations. Don’t worry if you don’t have any video production experience. Our team will guide you through the entire process to make your custom hand drawn animation.

So how does it work?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer all of your top questions, including:

• How can I make a hand drawn animation with Video Igniter?
• How much does it cost to make a hand drawn animation?
• What sort of timeline is needed to create a hand drawn animation?

Answers to all these questions and more are coming up in this guide – including tips to help you save 10%-25% or more off the cost of making your hand drawn animation. But first, let’s take a look at examples of hand drawn animations that Video Igniter’s team can make for you.

Hand Drawn Animation Examples

Video Igniter can make any kind of 2D or 3D animation for you. You can see some of our favorite example videos below. For additional production samples, check out our animation portfolio or request access to our demo reels and price sheet.

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

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

What is hand drawn animation?

Hand drawn animation is a style of animation that’s created by individually drawing motion design details for each frame in the video. Modern computer animation enables animators to use software to automatically add motion design to illustrations which speeds up the production process. Hand drawn animation requires more time to create all of the individual frames with humans which leads to a more natural looking motion design.

Often times, hand drawn animation is now done on a computer. Even though the art may not look like it was drawn on pencil and paper, the individual movement of characters or elements in each scene can be drawn in frame by frame to create realistic organic movements.

Hand drawn animation is also referred to as “Traditional Animation,” “Frame by Frame Animation” and “Cel-Animation.”

How can I make a hand drawn animation with Video Igniter?

When you’re ready to create a hand drawn animation, Video Igniter will guide you through these 7 steps to create your dream video:

1). Get A Quote

Before production begins, let’s get in touch to discuss your video project and goals (send us a message or schedule a call). Video Igniter’s production team will work with you virtually to learn about the hand drawn animation you want us to create. Once we agree to the scope for the project, we will develop a budget and a production timeline to make your video.

You will receive a production agreement to sign and an invoice for the first 50% of your production budget.

2). Script

After we receive your signed production agreement and the first half of your production budget, our writers will meet with you virtually to learn more about what you want to communicate in your hand drawn animation. We like to ask the following types of questions:

• What are the key messages you want to include in your animation?
• What do you want us to show in your animation?
• Who is your target audience?
• What problems do they experience?
• What do you want viewers to do when they’re done watching your animation?

From there, we’ll develop the first draft of your video’s script. You will receive a digital copy of the script which you can review with your team. Add your feedback directly on the script document and let us know when everyone has finished adding their notes. Then, our writers will revise your script and share the 2nd draft with you to review and approve.

If additional edits are needed, we will continue to work with you to revise and polish your script until it’s perfect.

3). Storyboard

Following the approval of your script, our storyboard artists will turn your script into a storyboard. The storyboard functions like a blueprint of your hand drawn animation. It’s essentially a rough draft of your entire animation. Each page of the storyboard includes:

• A sentence from your script.
• A rough sketch of the scene.
• Instructions that explain how elements will move in the scene.

You will receive a digital copy of the storyboard to review with your team. We recommend focusing on the visual storytelling elements we developed. Do the visual storytelling elements help the viewer understand the key messages in your script? Are there key visual details we need to show that aren’t currently included in the storyboard?

Add your feedback directly on the storyboard and let us know when you’ve finished adding your notes. Our sketch artists will integrate your edits and then share the 2nd draft of the storyboard for you to review and sign off. If additional edits are needed, we’ll continue to work with you to polish your storyboard until you love it.

4). VoiceOver

Once your storyboard is approved, we’ll begin working on the voiceover, soundtrack and illustrations for your hand drawn animation.

For starters, you will receive a selection of voiceover auditions for your animation. Give them a listen and let us know which voiceover artist is your favorite. We’ll hire that person to record the full voiceover for your animation and acquire the appropriate license(s) for the recording so we can legally use it when we make your hand drawn animation.

When the recording is ready, you will receive a link to give it a listen. Let us know if there are any parts you’d like to revise and we’ll coordinate with the voiceover artist to get those parts rerecorded.

5). Soundtrack

Our team will hand pick a selection of songs that we can use in your hand drawn animation to enhance the presentation of key moments in your video. Give the music a listen and let us know which option is your favorite.

We’ll take care of acquiring the appropriate license(s) so we can legally use the music when we make your animation.

6). Illustrations

Creating illustrations for a hand drawn animation is one of the longest phases of the production process. To get things started, our art director will review your brand guidelines and any visual style references you may have shared.

From there, the art director will select a few scenes from your storyboard and use them to develop multiple pieces of concept art.

When you receive the concepts, give them a thoughtful and honest review. Let the art director know what you like and dislike about each visual concept. This way, the art director can work with you to revise and polish your favorite visual concept until it’s perfect!

After you sign off on the concept art, the art director will lead the illustration team while they create art for all of the key frames in your hand drawn animation. You will get an opportunity to review all of the art and request edits before we proceed to create the full animation.

7). Animation

Now that everything is approved, it’s time to create your hand drawn animation. Video Igniter’s illustrators and animators will line up all of the key illustrations for your video so they match up with the timing of the voiceover. Then, the artists will create all of the remaining illustrations that happen in between the key frames. Creating all of these in between illustrations is what makes your animation come to life.

When the first draft is ready, you will receive a link to download a watermarked copy of your hand drawn animation. Give the animation a thorough review with your internal team and members of your target audience.

Collect everyone’s revision notes and send them to us. We’ll integrate your revisions and render out the 2nd draft of your hand drawn animation. If additional edits are needed, let us know and we’ll take care of them.

After you approve the animation, our sound team will take an extra day or two to add subtle sound effects to your animation.  They’ll also spend a little time balancing the audio levels so the music, voiceover and sound effects all sound loud and clear.

At this point, you will receive the final invoice for your hand drawn animation. After the invoice is paid, you will receive a link to download the final, unwatermarked version of your animation.

How much does it cost to make a hand drawn animation?

Hand drawn animations typically cost between $7,500-$25,000 to create each minute of video content. To put that into perspective, modern 2D computer animation usually costs $1,750-$7,500 to create each minute of video content.

The difference in price is due to the large number of hours required to create hand drawn animations. This style of animation requires more time and more illustrators to create each individual frame that’s used in the video. Modern 2D animation takes less time to produce because computer animation software can be used to speed up the process of animating all the elements that move.

Here are 4 ways you can get a quote for your hand drawn animation:

1). Send us a message.

2). Fill out this questionnaire.

3). Schedule a call with our production team.

4). Request access to our pricing page.

How long does it take to create a hand drawn animation?

A 60-second hand drawn animation will take 6-10 weeks to create. If you have a deadline that’s coming up quickly, send us a message and ask us about rush delivery animation. We’ll work with you to develop a plan to create your animation quickly.

That being said, we always recommend starting production as soon as possible to minimize the need for rush delivery.

How to save money when you make a hand drawn animation?

Combine these tips to save 10%-25% or more off your production budget when you hire Video Igniter or another animation studio to create your hand drawn animation:

1). Write The Script

Writing the script for your hand drawn animation earns you a discount of $500 off the price of each minute of animation we produce for you. Download our script template for help writing your script. The template provides recommendations for ways to structure your video’s script.

2). Create The Storyboard

Creating the storyboard for your hand drawn animation earns you an additional discount of $500 off the price of each minute of video content we produce for you. Download our storyboard template and check out the included storyboard creation guide to see how easy it is to create a storyboard. No artistic ability needed.

3). Record The VoiceOver

If you record the voiceover for your hand drawn animation, we’ll deduct voiceover recording and licensing costs from your production budget.

4). Use Free, Legal Music

Sites like Incompetech and Facebook’s sound collection offer large libraries of free music that we can use in your hand drawn animation. If you find a free song you want us to use in your animation, we’ll deduct music licensing costs from your animation budget.

5). Start Production ASAP

Rush delivery is available if you need to speed up the production process to meet your deadline. However, rush delivery can increase your production budget by 10%-25% or more! If you want to minimize or avoid paying extra for rush delivery, schedule a call with our production team ASAP or send us a message so we can start discussing the production plan for your hand drawn animation.

Hand Drawn Animation Production Resources

These resources are popular among people reading and researching about ways to produce a hand drawn animation:

How To Make Custom Animated Videos

What Is Traditional Animation?

How To Hire An Animation Studio?

What Style of Animation Should I Use For My Video?

How To Make A Whiteboard Animation

Still have questions about hand drawn animations?

Do you have a question about hand drawn animation 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.

Watch the demo reel below for examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce for you.

Looking For An Animated Video 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.

“Couldn’t be happier with Derek and his team. The quality of the work for the cost far exceeded expectations and surpasses anything in the market. Derek was patient, offered many revisions, and was overall great to work with.”

Alex Novick – Founder, Sproutly.com

“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!

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.