Custom Animation: Learn How Custom Animations Are Made

If you want to make a custom animation, you’re in the right place! Custom animation offers a unique and engaging way to communicate your brand’s message, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. If you’re considering creating a custom animation but need a professional animator, this guide is for you. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of custom animation, showcase examples of its applications, explain how the production process works and provide valuable insights on finding the perfect animator to bring your vision to life.

Custom Animation

I. Benefits of Custom Animation

Unique Brand Identity and Messaging: Custom animation enables you to tailor your brand’s visual identity and messaging in a way that resonates with your target audience. By incorporating your brand’s colors, style, and tone, you can create a cohesive and memorable brand experience.

Enhanced Creative Freedom and Storytelling: Animation has the power to captivate viewers, evoking emotions and conveying complex ideas in a visually appealing manner. By using dynamic motion design, custom characters, and unique visuals, custom animation enables you to create and tell compelling stories that captures your audience’s attention.

Targeted Communication and Audience Connection: Custom animation enables you to tailor your message to specific demographics or segments of your target audience. By understanding their preferences and interests, you can create animations that deeply resonate with viewers, forging a strong connection and driving engagement.

II. Examples of Custom Animation

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

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





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

 

III. How To Find the Right Animator for Your Custom Animation Project

How To Find the Right Animator for Your Custom Animation Project

Identifying the right animation producer for your project is a key step in the production process. Here are our tips for identifying and evaluating different animated video production companies for your project.

1. Research and Shortlist Potential Animators

Start by researching and identifying animators who specialize in custom animations. Look for professionals with a strong portfolio and expertise in your desired animation style.

2. Evaluate Portfolio and Expertise

Review the animators’ portfolios to assess the quality and creativity of their previous work. Consider their experience in creating animations similar to your vision.

3. Checking Client Testimonials and Reviews

Delve into testimonials and reviews from previous clients to gain insights into the animators’ professionalism, communication skills, and ability to meet deadlines.

4. Review Pricing

After you’ve identified the most qualified candidates for your project, review their pricing options to ensure they can work with your budget.

5. Schedule A Call

Now that you’ve reviewed pricing, production examples and testimonials, reach out to your top candidates and to get acquainted with their team to figure out who is going to be the best fit for your project.

IV. Factors to Consider When Hiring an Animator

Custom Animation Factors to Consider When Hiring an Animator

Here are a few extra things to keep in mind when you hire an animator to create a custom animation:

Budget Considerations and Pricing Models:

Determine your budget for the custom animation project and explore different pricing models offered by animators, such as hourly rates, fixed fees, or project-based pricing. Make sure to check to see how many revisions are included in the price; some animators charge extra for more than 1-2 rounds of edits.

Collaboration and Communication Process:

Ensure that the animator has a collaborative approach and effective communication channels in place to keep you involved throughout the production process. Clear and timely communication is key to a successful collaboration.

Project Timelines and Deadlines:

Discuss the project timeline and ensure that the animator can deliver the final product within your desired timeframe. Some animators offer a rush delivery upgrade if you need to produce content faster than their standard production timeline.

Intellectual Property Rights and Usage Agreements:

Clarify the ownership and usage rights of the custom animation. Ensure that the animator transfers the necessary rights to you and that they respect your intellectual property.

V. How To Make A Custom Animation?

Custom Animation How To Make A Custom Animation

1). Initial Consultation and Concept Development

Collaborate with the animator to define the objectives, target audience, visual style and desired outcomes of your custom animation.

Custom Animation Initial Consultation and Concept Development

2). Scriptwriting

Our team will develop a compelling script that effectively communicates your message and engages your audience. You get an opportunity to review the script and request revisions.

Custom Animation Script Writing

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

3). Storyboarding

Once the script is approved, we create the storyboard. The storyboard is a visual roadmap of the animation. It provides instructions to the illustrators and animators about what they’re supposed to create in each scene. We will review the storyboard with you to ensure it documents all the relevant details that the production team needs.

Custom Animation Storyboarding

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

4). Illustration

Our art director will create concept art for your custom animation. Collaborate with our art director to refine your preferred visual concept until you love it! Then, our art team creates al of the custom illustrations for your video. You get an opportunity to review all the art and request edits before approving them for production.

Custom Animation Illustration

5). VoiceOver

You will receive several voiceover auditions to review. The right voice can enhance the emotional impact and clarity of your custom animation. Let us know which one you prefer and we’ll oversee the recording of the full voiceover. You get an opportunity to review the full VO and request edits before approving it for production.

VoiceOver

6). Sound Selection

Our team will select some options for the video’s background music and sound effects to enhance the storytelling. Using the right soundtrack and SFX can help evoke emotions and create a memorable audio experience. You get to pick which soundtrack is ultimately used and our team will take care of acquiring the license for you to use the music in your video.

Soundtrack

7). Animation

After the voiceover, illustrations and soundtrack are approved, we can create your custom animation. We will share the first draft as soon as it’s ready. Give the animation a detailed review and share your feedback. Our team will incorporate your edits and render out the final draft of your custom animation.

Custom Animation Video

VI. Tips for Maximizing the ROI of Your Custom Animation

To ensure your custom animation delivers the desired results for your business, here are some high impact tips:

Tips for Maximizing the ROI of Your Custom Animation

Define Clear Objectives and Your Target Audience:

Clearly define the goals of your animation and identify your target audience to create a focused and impactful animation. The more specific you can be, the more we can tailor the story to speak to the unique needs and interests of your audience.

Incorporate Branding Elements and Consistency:

Infuse your brand’s visual elements, such as colors, logos, and fonts, into the animation to maintain consistency and reinforce brand identity.

Optimize Your Custom Animation for Various Platforms and Channels:

Ensure that your custom animation is optimized for different platforms and channels, such as social media, websites, and presentations, to maximize its reach and impact. Some animations can be designed to play in horizontal, vertical and square video formats.

Reaching and Engaging the Right Audience:

Syndicate your videos on the right platforms to get your custom animation distributed in front of your intended audience.

Include a CTA to Generate Leads and Increase Conversions:

Include a clear call to action at the end of your custom animation to drive viewers to take the desired action, such as signing up for a newsletter, downloading your app or making a purchase. Check out this companion article for tips on how to increase the conversion rate of your video.

VII. Frequently Asked Questions about Custom Animation

Frequently Asked Questions about Custom Animation

How long does it take to create a custom animation?

The time required to create a custom animation depends on the complexity of the project and the animator’s workload. A 30-60 second 2D animated videos takes 3-6 weeks to create. 3D animated videos take 2-4x more time to create. Want to figure out how long it will take to create your custom animation? Contact our production team or fill out this questionnaire.

How long does it take to create a custom animation

What should be included in a custom animation brief?

A custom animation brief should include information about your brand, the objectives of the animation (including key talking points), the target audience, the desired visual style and tone, the duration, the deadline, and any specific requirements or references.

How can I ensure my custom animation aligns with my brand’s style?

To ensure alignment with your brand’s style, provide clear guidelines and examples of your brand’s visual identity, including colors, logos, fonts, and any existing brand assets. Collaborate closely with the animator and provide feedback throughout the production process. During the design phase, the art director will create multiple visual concepts for the video; this is the prime time to focus on ensuring the finalized visual concept is aligned with your brand’s visual style.

What is the typical cost of hiring an animator for a custom animation project?

What is the typical cost of hiring an animator for a custom animation project

The cost of hiring an animator or an animation studio varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the animation, the length of the project, the animator’s experience and skill level, and their pricing model. It’s best to discuss your budget and requirements with animators to obtain accurate cost estimates. In general, a 60 second 2D animated video typically costs between $1,500-$10,000 to create (although they can also go over $100,000). 3D aniamted videos cost 2-3x more to create. Check out Video Igniter’s current price sheet here. You can also contact our team to get a custom quote.

VIII. Types of Custom Animation Projects

Custom Animation Types of Custom Animation Projects

Custom animation is being used everywhere from entertaining/funny content all the way to high end educational videos and promotional sales content. Here’s a quick overview of the different types of custom animated video projects people create.

Explainer Videos

Simplify complex concepts and guide your audience through your product or service offerings using engaging animated visuals. For example, an explainer video can demonstrate how a software product works or explain the benefits of a service. Explainer videos can also be used to explain new information like how vaccines work or what to expect during a medical procedure.

Product Demonstrations

Showcase the features and benefits of your products in action through captivating animations that highlight their unique qualities. For instance, a product demonstration animation can show the functionality of a new gadget or showcase the versatility of a piece of equipment. Product demonstration animations can be created using 2D or 3D animation.

Brand Introduction

Introduce your brand to the world in a visually striking and memorable way, leaving a lasting impression on your audience. This type of animation can capture your brand’s essence, values, and mission, helping you establish a strong brand identity.

Training and Educational Videos

Custom Animation Training and Educational Videos

Deliver educational content in an engaging and entertaining manner through animations that simplify complex topics. This type of animation can be used for employee training, educational courses, or tutorials, making learning more enjoyable and effective.

Marketing and Advertising Campaigns

Create eye-catching and persuasive animations for your marketing campaigns, driving brand awareness and conversions. Whether it’s a social media ad, a promotional video, or a TV commercial, custom animation can help you stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Custom Animation Marketing and Advertising Campaigns

IX. How to Start Making Your Custom Animation

Here are 4 ways you can get the ball rolling on your upcoming custom animation project:

1). Contact us for a quote! Share some details about your project and we’ll get back to you with a quote in ~24 hrs.

2). to talk about your project, goals, timeline and budget.

3). Request access to our newest price sheet.

4). Fill out this questionnaire to help us learn about the details of your project. We’ll follow up with a quote and details about your production timeline.

Custom Animation Production Resources

These resources are popular among people reading and researching about how to make custom animations:

Learn How To Create A Custom Animation

How To Hire And Collaborate With A 2D Animator

Read The Animated Video Production FAQ

How To Turn Your Script Into An Animation

Still have questions about custom animation?

Do you have a question about custom 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.

Still have questions?

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 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 A Custom Animation Production Company In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Custom 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.

“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

Success Stories & Testimonials

Ready to make your custom animation? 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.

contact us

Create Animation: How To Create A Custom Animation Video

If you want to learn how to create an animation, you’re in the right place! Video Igniter’s guide to creating a video animation explains everything you need to know in order to create custom animations – even if you have zero video production experience. Here, you’ll learn about the production process and what it’s like to create an animation when you work with an animation studio, freelancer or Video Igniter. At the end, we also include tips to help you save money on your production budget. Let’s dive in!

Create Animation

Examples of Animations You Can Create With Video Igniter

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

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


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

 

5 Ways to Create Animations

First, let’s take a look at 5 different ways you can make a custom animation. Most of these options are suited for people without video production or animation experience.

1). Hire a Freelance Animator

5 Ways to Create Animations

Hiring a freelance animator is a fast and affordable way to create a custom animation. Freelancers tend to be less expensive to work with and can create simple animations relatively quickly. Check out this companion article for tips on how to find and hire an animator.

2). Hire An Animation Studio

Create Animation Hire An Animation Studio

American animation studios are great for large projects where you need a specialized team to complete the project. Animation studios are expensive to hire and take more time to work with – but such is the nature of big projects where you can’t skip on quality. Check out this companion article for tips on how to find an animation studio for hire.

3). Hire Video Igniter Animation

Custom Animation Hire Video Igniter Animation

Video Igniter is the fastest and most affordable way to produce high quality 2D and 3D animations. Video Igniter’s talented production team uses an online production dashboard to streamline your production experience and keep your project files organized. Whether you’re looking to make a short 2D animation or a half hour 3D animated episode of a show, get in touch with our team to discuss your project and goals.

4). Use An Online Animated Video Maker

Create Animation Use An Online Animated Video Maker

There are a handful of online animated video maker services that provide libraries of pre-created assets, video templates and an online editor that you can use to customize your own video online. These services can enable you to create templated videos within a few hours and most of them cost less than $100/month to use.

5). Create Your Own Animation

Create Animation Create Your Own Animation

Thinking of picking up animation to create your own animations? Take a look at Adobe After Effects, Cinema 4D and Blender. These three powerhouse apps are the industry standards that everyone uses.

How to Create a Video Animation

If you opt to hire a freelance animator, an animation studio or Video Igniter to create your animated video, here’s what you can expect during the video animation creation process:

1). Animation Kickoff

How to Create a Video Animation Kickoff

Creating your animation starts with a kickoff call and or a questionnaire to learn about what kind of animation you want us to create. This is your opportunity to explain:

❓Who your target audience is?

❓What you want to communicate in your video?

❓What kind of visual style you want to use for your animation?

✅  What do you want viewers to do after they watch your animation?

2). Write The Script

Create Animation Write The Script

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Now that we understand what kind of animation you want us to create, our script writers will develop the first draft of the script. We’ll review it with you and collect your feedback and incorporate your suggestions into the script. After the script gets your sign off, we move on to create the storyboard for your animation.

3). Create Your Animation Storyboard

Create Animation Create Your Animation Storyboard

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

The storyboard is like the blueprint for your animated video. Each page of the storyboard include a sentence (or part of a sentence), a mockup or rough sketch of the scene and written instructions to explain how everything moves in that shot. This way, the illustrators and animators have a clear understanding of what they’re supposed to create. We’ll review the storyboard with you, collect your revisions and incorporate them into the storyboard.

4). Review Soundtracks

Soundtracks

Music is used to enhance the presentation of key moments in your animation. Our team will select several soundtrack options for your video and share them with you for your feedback. Let us know which one(s) you prefer and we’ll acquire the license to legally use the music in your animation.

5). VoiceOver

VoiceOver

You will receive several voiceover auditions from our team. Let us know which voice(s) you prefer and we’ll hire the voiceover artist(s) to record the full audio for your animation. We’ll share the voiceover file(s) with you and give you an opportunity to review them and request edits.

6). Create Illustrations

Create Animation Concept Art

Our art director will review your brand guidelines, storyboard and target audience. Then, they will oversee the production of several pieces of concept art for your video. Let the art director know which one you prefer. You can also collaborate with our art director to refine your preferred visual style until you love it!

Create Animation Create Illustration

After the concept art is approved, our illustration team will use the concept art as a style reference and create the rest of the illustrations for your animation. You get an opportunity to review all of the illustrations and request revisions before approving them for production.

7). Create Your Animation

Create Animation Create Your Animation

Now that your illustrations, storyboard, voiceover and soundtrack are approved, it’s time for us to create your animation! When the first draft of your animation is ready, give it a detailed review with your team (and ideally members of your target audience). Collect everyone’s feedback and share it with us. We’ll incorporate your feedback and render out the final draft of your animation for you to use.

How Long Does It Take To Create An Animation?

How Long Does It Take To Create An Animation

The answer to this question varies based on the following factors:

⏰ How long is the animation? ️

❓ What visual style is used to create your animation?

✍️ Are you providing the script/storyboard or hiring your animator to create them for you? ️️

❓ When is your deadline?

To give you a baseline, it takes 3-6 weeks to create most 2D animated videos (up to 60 seconds in length). 3D animated videos take 2-3x as much time to create. If you have a fast approaching deadline, we offer a rush delivery animation service to speed up production.

What Does It Cost To Create Animation?

What Does It Cost To Create Animation

This answer to this question also varies based on the same factors listed above for how long it takes to create an animation. Animation budgets range from $1,000-$10,000,000+ per minute of animation that’s created. In general, most 2D animated videos can be produced for $1,500-$10,000 per minute of animation. 3D animated videos cost 2-4x more to produce. Get a quote for your video or request access to our newest price sheet.

How Do I Create Animation Videos For Free?

Quality animated videos tend to require a budget in order to create them. However, there are a few ways you can create animated videos for free. Check out this companion article about creating Free Animated Videos.

5 Ways To Save Money When Creating An Animation

Create Animation 5 Ways To Save Money When Creating An Animation

Here are 5 things you can do to save over $1,000 for each minute of animation you want to create:

1). Write the script for your animated video

Instead of hiring Video Igniter or an animation studio to create your script, you can download our free script writing template to create it yourself.

2). Create the storyboard for your animation

We’re happy to help you create the storyboard for your animation – but you can also download our storyboard template and create it yourself for free. Don’t worry, you don’t need to have artistic skills to create a storyboard. All you need to do is provide good descriptions of what you want us to create and we’ll take care of the artistic components.

3). Create the recording of the voiceover for your animation

Did you know it’s possible to record professional quality voiceovers at home or your office for free? No professional equipment or expensive software needed! Check out 1:31 in this video to learn how to record your own voiceover.

4). Use free, legal music

Stock audio websites are great but it can be expensive to purchase a broadcast license to legally use the music in your animation. If your video is going to be displayed on Facebook or Instagram, we recommend checking out Facebook’s Sound Collection. You can also check out Incompetech for a library of royalty free soundtracks you can use in your animation.

5). Use Pre-Created Assets

Instead of creating your animation 100% from scratch, it may be possible to reduce part of your animation’s production cost by using pre-made or stock assets like photos, images, clip art, text and 3D models.

How To Get Started Creating Your Animation

Create Animation How To Get Started Creating Your Animation

Ready to get production started on your animation? Here are a few ways you can initiate the animation creation process:

1). Reach out to us with a description of your project and we’ll send you a quote.

2). Fill out this questionnaire so that we can learn specific details about your project.

3). Schedule a call with our production team to discuss your animation.

4). Request access to our newest price sheet.

Create Animation Production Resources

These articles are popular among people reading and researching about how to create an animation:

Still have questions about creating animations?

Do you have a question about how to create an 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.

Still have questions?

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 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 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. “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

Success Stories & Testimonials

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.

contact us

Explainer Video Production

If you want to learn about explainer video production for an upcoming video project, you’re in the right place! Video Igniter’s guide to explainer video production teaches everything you need to know including:

✅ Explaining the explainer video production process

✅ How much does explainer video production cost

✅ How long does the explainer video production process take

✅ How to save money on the explainer video production process

✅ And more!

Explainer Video Production

What are explainer videos?

Explainer videos are concise educational videos that break down big topics and make them easier to understand. Explainer videos can be made using live action filmed footage, animated videos or a combination of mixing live action footage with animated motion graphics.

Explainer Video Examples

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

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




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

 

How does the explainer video production process work?

How does the explainer video production process work

Here’s a quick overview of the explainer video production process so that you can wrap your head around what’s involved at each stage of the experience.

1. Explainer Video Production Kickoff

Explainer Video Production Kickoff

Production kicks off with a phone call and or a questionnaire. The goal here is for us to learn:

✅ What are your main talking points

✅ Who is your target audience?

✅ What visual style do you want use for your video?

✅ What do you want viewers to do when they’re done watching your explainer video?

2. Script

Explainer Video Production Script

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Now that we understand what kind of video you want to create, our team develops a script that includes your key talking points and tailors the presentation of the messaging to your target audience. You will receive the first draft of the script as soon as it’s ready to review. Send us your revision notes and we will update your script for you. You get another opportunity to review your script before approving it for production.

3. Storyboard

Explainer Video Production Storyboard

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

Next, we’ll turn your script into a storyboard. The storyboard is the blueprint for your explainer video. It tells the illustrators and animators what to create. We’ll create a simple visual mockup to illustrate what happens during each part of your script. The storyboard also includes a brief writeup to explain how the visuals move about the scene. We’ll send you the first draft of the storyboard as soon as it’s ready to review. Send us your revision notes and we will update your storyboard for you. You’ll get to review the storyboard again to see if it needs any more refinements before you approve it for production.

4. VoiceOver

VoiceOver

You will receive several voiceover auditions from our team. Select your favorite voiceover talent and then we will oversee the recording of the full voiceover. You get to review the full voiceover and request edits if you fee anything sounds off. After you approve the voiceover, we’ll acquire the usage rights to use the audio recording in your video.

5. Soundtrack

Soundtrack

Our team will select several soundtracks that we feel will enhance the presentation of your explainer video. Let us know which one you prefer and we’ll acquire the broadcast license to use it in your explainer video.

6. Illustrations

You will receive several pieces of concept art from our art director. Pick you preferred concept and collaborate with our art director to refine the concept art until you absolutely love it!

Explainer Video Production Concept Art

Then, our art team will produce all of the illustrations needed for your explainer video. You’ll receive a copy of all the art to review. Give it a detailed review and send us your feedback. Our team will revise your illustrations until you are completely happy with them.

Explainer Video Production Illustrations

7. Animation

Once the illustrations, voiceover and soundtrack are approved, our team can wrap up production on your explainer video. As soon as it’s ready, we’ll send you the first draft of your explainer video. Give it a detailed review (ideally with members of your target audience). Collect everyone’s feedback and send it to us. We’ll incorporate your edits and send you the final draft of your explainer video.

Explainer Video Production Animation

What are the benefits of explainer videos?

Businesses and organizations use explainer videos to help communicate new information because explainer videos:

✅ Make it easier for people to learn and comprehend new information.

✅ Retain the information they learned.

✅ Make it more likely for a person to click play (if the thumbnail is animated/illustrated).

✅ It’s easier to update and improve an explainer video over time to improve it’s conversion rate (very difficult and expensive do to with non-animated explainer videos).

✅ Animated explainer videos captivate and hold viewers attention longer than long form filmed content.

How to save money on the explainer video production process?

How to save money on the explainer video production process

Here are 6 things you can do to save over $1,100 off of your video’s production cost:

1). Write the script for your animated video instead of hiring us to write it for you. Download our free script writing template here.

2). Create the storyboard for your animated video instead of hiring us to create it for you. Download our free storyboard template here.

3). Record the voiceover for your video. Watch this video to learn how you can record professional quality voiceovers at home or in the office for free, without having to buy any fancy equipment or expensive software.

4). Use free, legal music in your video. Facebook’s sound collection offers a vast library of music you can use for free in videos that you produce for Instagram and Facebook. Incompetech offers royalty free music you can use in all your videos as long as you credit the artist.

5). See if you can use free stock images, stock footage, icons, clip art, text and pre-created 3D models to help lower parts of the visual production cost of your video.

6). Use a simpler visual style for your explainer video that doesn’t take as much time and money to produce. Check out our rates for different levels of production quality.

For more budget saving tips, out this article for more tips on how to create affordable animation.

Tips for creating effective explainer videos

Tips for creating effective explainer videos

Here are the top 5 tips for creating highly effective explainer videos that connect with your target audience and deliver conversions:

1). Define your target audience

Sounds like a simple one but without doing this step, it’s easy to muddle your message. Defining your target audience makes it easier for the creative team to make decisions that speak directly to the needs of your target audience.

2). Call To Action

end your video with a call to action. Whether it’s teaching people where to get more information, encouraging them to download up or make a donation, it’s important to end your video with a direct request after using the build up of your explainer video to make a case for them to take action.

3). Test Your CTAs

It isn’t enough to just end your video with a call to action. We recommend creating alternate CTAs to test so that you can see which CTA is more likely to get people to take action after watching your video. Testing CTAs can increase conversion rates by 10% or more!

Explainer Video Production Test Your CTAs

4). Unique Visual Style

The world of animation opens up infinite visual possibilities. The best way to keep people engaged with your video is to develop a unique visual style that’s fun and entertaining to watch.

5). Test Different Thumbnails

Your video’s thumbnail is the first impression for your video. consider testing different thumbnails to see which one gets more people to click play.

For a deep dive on how to A/B test variations of your explainer video to get more views, more engagement and more conversions, check out our companion article called, “How to improve your video conversion rate.”

What does explainer video production cost?

What does explainer video production cost

Most explainer videos cost $1,500-$10,000 to make for each minute of video that’s being created. Explainer videos that include 3D visualizations can cost a few thousand dollars more.

Looking for a quote for your explainer video’s production cost? Get a quote from our team!

How long does explainer video production take?

How long does explainer video production take

A 1-2 minute long explainer video takes 2-6 weeks to create. The variation in production timeline depends on how much animation is included in the explainer video and whether or not production is starting with a pre-approved script or storyboard.

Need to speed up production for your deadline? We offer rush delivery animation to help speed up explainer video projects.

Want to figure out how long production will take for your explainer video? Reach out to get a quote & production timeline or .

How To Get The Explainer Video Production Process Started?

How To Get The Explainer Video Production Process Started

Ready to start production on your explainer video? Here’s how to get the ball rolling:

1). Get in Touch With Our Team

You can send us an email, , get a quote, request access to our price sheet or fill out this questionnaire about your project.

2). Production Proposal

We’ll get back to you asap with a production budgte and a production proposal to produce your explainer video.

3). Pay The Production Deposit

We’ll send you an invoice for 50% of the estimated production budget for your video. The explainer video production process begins as soon as we receive your payment.

Explainer Video Production Resources

These articles are popular among people reading and researching about how to make an explainer video:

Still have questions about explainer video production?

Do you have a question about explainer video production 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.

Still have questions?

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 Explainer Video Production Company In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Explainer Video Production 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

 

Success Stories & Testimonials

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.

contact us

+160 Free Resources To Help You Create Animated Videos

At Video Igniter, we want everyone to be well informed and understand what is involved with hiring and working with an animation producer to create a custom animated video. Understanding the production process and how to tell a great story are just the beginning.

No matter what kind of animated video you want to create, we have +160 free resources to help you create any kind of animated video you can imagine. Our guides, FAQs and resources will help you turn that the idea in your head into the perfect video!

If you have any questions about your video project, contact us here or schedule a call with our production team.

Production Related Tips & Questions

How long does explainer video production take

1). How long does it take to animate a 1 minute video?

2). How many words in a 60 second script?

3). How does animation production work?

4). How to create an animated video?

5). How to make a video with an animated video production company?

6). What is the animation process to create a video?

7). How to outsource a 3D animation project?

8). How long does it take to make an explainer video?

9). Learn how to create an animated video.

10). Review the animation pre-production checklist before your next video starts for the smoothest production experience.

11). What are the advantages of making 2D animation?

12). How to translate your video content into other languages?

13). How to review your animated video project assets?

14). Learn about animated video production (FAQ).

15). How to turn your idea into an animated video?

16). What are the different animation styles I can use for my animated video?

Animated Video Script Writing Resources

Animated Video Script Writing Resources

17). Download Video Igniter’s free animated video script writing template.

18). How do I write an animated video script?

19). How to turbo charge your video script writing?

20). Check out these examples of successful explainer video scripts.

Animated Video Storyboard Creation Resources

Animated Video Storyboard Creation Resources

21). What is a storyboard?

22). Download Video Igniter’s free storyboard creation template.

23). How to create a storyboard for an animated video?

24). Want to see what a storyboard looks like for an explainer video?

25). Check out these explainer video storyboard examples!

26). How to build a great storyboard for an explainer video?

Animated Video Production Resources

Animated Video Production Resources

27). Comprehensive list of animated video production resources.

28). Resources and templates to help you create an explainer video.

How to make different types of animated videos

How to make different types of animated videos

29). How to make an animated video?

30). How to make a 2D animated video?

31). How to make an animated advertisement video?

32). Learn how animated explainer videos are made.

33). How to make an animated marketing video?

34). How to make an animated product video that helps you increase sales?

35). How to make a high converting explainer video for a startup?

36). Learn how to make an animated political ad

37). Learn how to make an animated trade show video that generates awareness and leads.

38). How to make highly effective animation videos for your marketing?

39). How to create a motion graphics animation?

40). How do I make an animated corporate video that explains what our company does?

41). How to make an animated sales video that actually helps you increase sales?

42). How to make an animated blockchain video that explains what our business offers?

43). How to make a custom animated video?

44). Learn how to make a high-converting b2b explainer video that will help you generate more awareness, leads and sales for your business!

45). Learn how to make animated social media posts to increase awareness, followers and leads.

46). How to make a cel animation?

47). How to make an animated lyric video?

48). Learn to make informative animated educational videos.

49). How to make a fun animated cartoon video?

50). How to make a medical explainer video?

51). Learn how to make an animated sales video that increases sales for your business!

52). How to make a highly effective animated promotional video?

53). How to make an animated company video?

54). Learn how to make an animated logo video.

55). How to make an explainer video for your app?

56). How to make animated kinetic typography videos?

57). How to make a marketing video animation + what do examples of successful marketing animations look like?

58). How to make an animated investor pitch deck?

59). Learn how to make a 30 second explainer video that’s short, concise and supports your business objectives.

60). How to make an animated infographic video (FAQ).

61). Learn how to make an animated homepage video that helps you grow your business.

62). Learn how commercial video production works.

63). How to make a whiteboard animation?

64). How to create a business animation that generates more awareness, leads and sales?

65). How to make animated commercials?

66). How do you make a 2D explainer video?

67). Learn how video explainers are made.

68). How to make an animated video (FAQ).

69). Learn how to make a medical animation.

70). How to make an animated video for your business?

71). Learn how to make a commercial animation.

72). Learn how to produce healthcare videos.

73). How to make a 3D animation?

74). How to make a short animated video?

75). How to make animated customer support videos to improve your customer support experience and decrease customer support costs?

76). How to make an animated GIF?

77). Explainer Video Productions (FAQ).

78). How to make an animated NFT?

79). How to make an animated cartoon?

80). How do you make a business explainer video?

81). How to make an explainer video?

82). How to create and use video animation for your business?

83). How to make an animated ad?

84). How to create your own animated video series?

Animated Video Production Services

Animated Video Production Services

85). What animated video production services does Video Igniter offer?

86). Learn about Video Igniter’s white label video production services for animated video projects.

87). Animation outsourcing: how to outsource an animated video project?

88). Learn about animated video production and how it works.

89). Learn about our white label animated video production service for agencies.

90). Comprehensive list of all the animation services Video Igniter offers.

91). White Label Animated Video Production Services For E-Learning Companies

Animated Video Marketing & Promotion Tips

Animated Video Marketing & Promotion Tips

92). How to leverage animated video SEO to increase website traffic.

93). How can I improve my video conversion rate?

94). How and where to syndicate your animated videos?

95). Learn about video promotion to grow your business!

96). How to make a video for business marketing?

97). Video Marketing 101: how to use animated videos to improve your sales & marketing?

98). How to use visual content marketing to grow your business?

99). Animated Video Lead Generation: how to use animated videos to generate leads?

100). What are the benefits of making and using animated videos for digital marketing?

101). 6 ways to get high viewer engagement for your animated videos.

102). Explainer Video Tips: how to get the most out of your explainer video.

103). How to interpret the stats and analytics for your animated videos?

Animation & Production Examples

104). Check out our animated video portfolio to see our latest and greatest creations!

105). Brand new 2D Animation Examples to inspire your next animated video project.

Animated Video Payments and Pricing Information

Animated Video Payments and Pricing Information

106). Video Igniter’s Price Sheet

107). Get a quote for your animated video project.

108). How much does animation cost?

109). White label pricing and affiliate payments for animated video projects.

110). How much does it cost to hire an animation studio?

111). How much does it cost to hire an animator?

112). What does 2D animation cost?

113). What are the typical explainer video rates?

114). Budget saving tips to make animation more affordable.

115). What are the animated video payment terms for my project?

116). How to make animated videos for free?

117). Animated Video Pricing: How do I figure out the right pricing option for my project?

118). What goes into the cost of an explainer video?

Miscellaneous Animated Video Questions

Miscellaneous Animated Video Questions

119). How does animation make the world a better place?

120). Learn about animated video companies.

121). What is an explainer video?

122). How to add animation to your video?

123). What is an animated video agency and how can they help my business?

124). How does Video Igniter’s unlimited revisions policy work?

125). How to select the right animated video soundtrack for your project?

126). Can I speed up production with rush delivery animation?

127). Animation For Agencies: How to agencies make and use animated videos for their clients?

128). What is the Video Igniter Animated Video Service?

129). How can I make a cheap animated explainer video?

130). Why does my company need an explainer video?

131). Why should my startup have an explainer video?

132). How can a crypto explainer video help my crypto / blockchain company?

133). How can I record my own voiceover for free?

134). How do I pick the right animated video style for my project?

135). Learn how to add animation to video?

Animated Video Production Hiring Questions

Animated Video Production Hiring Questions

136). 9 Things To Look for When You Hire An Animation Studio.

137). How to hire an animator?

138). Tips for hiring an animator.

139). How to hire and work with an animation studio?

140). How to hire and work with a 2D animator?

141). How to find & hire animation experts for your next video project?

142). Pros & cons of hiring a local animator vs outsourcing your animation.

143). How to hire and work with a cartoon videographer?

144). How to hire and work with a 2D animation studio?

145). How to find and hire the right video animation company for your project?

146). How to hire a video animator?

147). How to find the right animator to hire for your project?

148). How to choose the right animation company for your project?

149). How do you find the right 2D animator for hire?

150). Video Igniter’s comprehensive guide to hiring anexplainer video company.

151). Animation Studio For Hire: Why you need to work with a professional animation studio.

152). How to hire and work with a remote animation studio?

153). How to find, hire and work with a small animation studio?

154). Pros and Cons of hiring a Fiverr animator.

155). Should you use Fiverr to make your explainer video?

156). Hiring a Seattle animation studio.

157). Pros and cons of hiring a freelance animator.

158). How to hire a studio, freelance animator, agency or Video Igniter?

Learn about different types of animation maker services and apps

Learn about different types of animation maker services and apps

159). Learn about different types of online animation makers.

160). How to use a 3D animation maker to create custom 3D animated videos?

161). How to pick the right animated video maker for your project?

162). Learn about explainer video makers and discover the right one for your project!

163). How use an animated video presentation maker?

164). How to use a 2D animation maker online to create a 2D animation?

165). How to use an animated commercial video maker to make animated commercials for your business?

166). What are the different types of online animated video makers?

167). How to use an animated video maker app to create your video?

168). How to use an animated explainer video maker to create an explainer video?

169). How to use an animated promo video maker to create animated promo videos for your business?

170). How to use an animated educational video maker to create an animated educational video?

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 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.

“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.

contact us

How to create an animated ad to promote your business?

Do you want to create an animated ad for your business but aren’t sure how to get started? Video Igniter’s FAQ about animated ads answers everything wanted to know about how to make and use an animated ad.

Content:

1). How to make an animated ad?

2). What does it cost to make an animated ad?

3). How do I find an animator to help me create an animated ad?

4). How do I promote my business with an animated ad?

5). How do I save money on my animated advertisement production budget?

…And more!

Examples of Animated Ads You Can Get From Video Igniter

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

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






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

 

How To Make An Animated Ad:

Let’s take a quick look at the production process so that you understand what happens during each phase of production.

1). Questionnaire

animated ad questionnaire

After you’ve selected an animated video production company for your animated ad, they will send you a questionnaire to learn more about the video you want them to create. This is an opportunity to explain to your animators:

  • What information you want to convey in your ad.
  • Who your target audience is, and how to speak to them.
  • What visual style to use for the ad.
  • What call to action you want to include at the end of your advertisement.

animated ad cta

2. Script

Now that you’ve had a chance to describe the video you want to create, your animation team can write the script for your animated ad. For a ballpark estimate, if you’re creating a 30 second animated ad, your script will be about 75 words long.

When the first draft is ready, give it a detailed review focusing on the ideas being presented and the story that connects them together. Ensure the presentation is delivered in a way that speaks to your target audience.

animated ad script

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Collect your feedback, send it to your production team and they’ll incorporate your edits. You’ll get an opportunity to review the updated script and approve it for production or you can send them another round of edits.

3. Storyboard

After your script is approved, it’s time to create your storyboard. The storyboard is the blueprint for your animated ad. It tells the illustrators and animators what to create.

Your production team will develop the first draft of the storyboard and send it to you to review. Each page includes a sentence from your script, a rough mockup of the scene, directions for the animators and a list of the assets that are needed to create the scene.

animated ad storyboard

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

When you review the storyboard, focus on the visual ideas that are going to be used to bring your script to life. Do the visuals enhance or detract from the presentation of the key messages in your ad? If you want to make revisions, let the production team know. Otherwise, mark the storyboard as approved so that production can proceed.

4. VoiceOver

voiceover

Your video animator will help you procure voiceover auditions for your animated ad. Typically, they will order up 1-3 voiceover auditions for each character/narrator in your video. You get a chance to review the auditions and select your favorite(s). Then, the production team will oversee the production of the full voiceover recording to guide the VO artist through the pacing, tone and energy they should use. You get an opportunity to review the full voiceover and request revisions before approving it for production.

5. Soundtrack

The animation studio you are working with will also help select some soundtracks that will enhance the presentation of your animated ad.

soundtrack

Give the soundtracks a listen and let your production team know which one you like best so they can purchase the license to use the music in your ad. Can’t decide which soundtrack you like best? Let them know and they will help you preview your favorite options when the first draft of your animated ad is ready to review.

6. Illustration

Creating illustrations for an animated ad happens in two phases:

  1. Creation of the concept art
  2. Creation of the rest of the art

animated ad illustrations

Illustration begins with the creation of concept art. This way, the production team can develop and refine a unique visual style specifically for your animated ad. Once the concept art is fully developed and approved by your team, our animation studio will create all of the rest of the art for your video to match the style of the concept art.

You get an opportunity to review all the illustrations and request revisions before approving the art for animation.

7. Animation

animated ad animation

Now that everything is approved, it’s time to animate your ad! 2D animation takes about 1 week for content under 60 seconds in length. When the first draft is ready, give it a detailed review with your team and members of your target audience. Then, collect everyone’s feedback and share it with your animation team so they can incorporate your edits and render out the final draft.

What does it cost to make an animated ad?

animated ad cost

Ballpark budget range for a 30-second 2D animated ad: $1,000-$5,000+.

Ballpark budget range for a 30-second 3D animated ad: $3,000-$25,000+.

Check out this article for a more in depth look at animated video pricing.

How do I find an animator to help me make an animated ad?

Picking the right animated video production company to make your animated ad is a key decision in the animated video production process.

hire animated ad video producer

Here are some resources to help you find the right animated video production company to produce your animation’s ideal visual style, on time and within your budget:

How do I promote my business with an animated ad?

Let’s take a look at the tried and true methods you can use to promote your animated ad to your target audience.

1). SEO

animated ad video seo

The best way to leverage your animated ad is to get your video to appear at the top of Google and YouTube’s search results.

To learn more about Video SEO and how to optimize your videos to appear in search engines, check out our Video SEO guide!

2). Facebook/Instagram

Facebook and Instagram make it easy to create targeted video advertising campaigns to get your animated ad in front of your target audience. Their built in platform tools make it easy to guide viewers to your site or your social pages if they’re interested in learning more about your company and staying connected with your brand while they determine if they want to become a customer of yours.

3). TikTok & SnapChat

TikTok & SnapChat also offer self-service ad platforms like Facebook and Instagram. If you have developed your video to play in vertical mode and you want to reach a B2C audience, consider using TikTok or SnapChat to promote your ad.

animated ad social media platforms

4). YouTube Ads

Wanna reach almost any kind of person on the planet with your video message? YouTube is used around the world and offers self-service ad tools that let you promote your animated ad to specific members of your target audience.

5). LinkedIn

If you want to promote a B2B company, Linkedin is the best platform to reach your audience. CPMs and CPCs are higher on Linkedin compared to most platforms but it is one of the few places online that you can reach a business-specific audience with your animated ad at scale.

6). Traditional PR

animated ad traditional pr

If your animated ad can be used to explain and illustrate something that is new and topical, consider including it with your PR outreach. It’s a tall order to expect publications to promote your advertisement for free. However, if your video presents a novel idea or makes it possible for people to understand a new complicated idea, it will be easier for the publication to justify including your animated ad when they write an article about your company.

7). Honorable Mention: Hulu

Hulu also has a self-service ad platform that you can use to develop large scale TV advertising programs.

Why use animation to create an ad?

Why do people use animation to create animated promotional ads instead of using live action filmed content for their ad?

Get more awareness

Why use animation to create an ad

Animated ads help marketers gain awareness better than live action videos. Animated ads use colorful thumbnails and eye candy visuals that make the viewer more likely to click play and give the video a few seconds of attention to see if they want to keep watching.

Makes it easy to understand new information

Animated ads visuals that focus the viewer’s attention and a voiceover to explain your key message(s). You could show a photorealistic 3D animated model of brain neurons firing, or you could break the process down into a simple 2D animated diagram that walks the viewer step by step through what is happening when neurons fire. In either case, the animated visuals make it easier to understand what is happening compared to trying to learn that information from a paper book.

animated ad memorable

Holds attention, boosts memory recall. 

Animated ads introduce new colorful movements every few seconds. This appears to be enough to dramatically increase viewer retention rates throughout the course of the video. As a consequence of paying attention to the ‘user friendly’ visuals that make the information easy to understand, the viewer’s ability to retain information goes up.

Makes it easy to share important messages

share animated ad

There are many ways to promote your message to the world. Sharing a video via a link happens to be one of the most useful and scaleable ways to get a mass media message to large audiences or to a specific target market.

What are some good examples of animated ads?

Youtube video

Youtube video

Youtube video

Youtube video

Youtube video

How long does it take to make an animated ad?

animated ad production schedule

It takes 3-5 weeks to produce most 2D animated video ads. 3D animation takes about twice as long to produce. If you need to speed up production, check out our rush delivery animation option.

To learn more about the animated video production process and how long each stage of the production process takes, check out this companion article:

Understanding The Animation Production Workflow How To Turn Your Idea Into A Custom Animated Video Igniter Animation

How long should my animated ad be?

That depends on what your goal is for your animated ad…

If your goal is to get awareness

Aim for a length of 5-60 seconds. Most awareness videos are in the 5-30 second range. The purpose isn’t to tell people your whole story. The goal is to get them intrigued enough to  want to learn more and share your story. In many cases, the shorter the better.

If your goal is to educate your leads and prospective clients

For leads and prospects that have already heard about you and want to learn more, your videos should be about 1-2 minutes long.

animated ad educate leads

Long videos are usually reserved for customer education and retention. Longer videos can be used to give an in depth look at your product/service to show how it works. You can also make longer, feature-length content (30-90+ minutes) that would be of interest to your target market. Consequently, this feature-length content could be repurposed to gain awareness among new potential customers as well as delighting your existing clients.

Want to promote your animated ad? Schedule a call with our production team or use this form to get in touch.

 

How do I maximize the business outcomes of my animated ad?

animated ad business outcomes

If you want to maximize the effectiveness of your animated ad, check out the following resources:

Emerging Trends in Animated Ads

Emerging Trends in Animated Ads

Animated ads are constantly evolving to match new technologies and consumer preferences. Staying up to date on the latest trends can help your brand stand out and resonate with your audience. Here are some of the most promising trends to consider:

Personalized animated ads
Dynamic personalization, powered by AI, enables brands to tailor animated ads to each viewer’s location, preferences, or recent behavior. Personalized animated ads can dramatically improve engagement rates and conversions by making viewers feel seen and understood.

Interactive animated ads
Interactivity is a major growth area. These ads invite viewers to engage with clickable hotspots, sliders, or quizzes inside the animation itself. Interactive elements increase the time viewers spend with your content and make them more likely to take action afterward.

Hybrid animation and live-action
Brands are experimenting with combining animated elements over live-action footage, creating a fresh and memorable look. This hybrid approach blends realism with the imaginative power of animation, offering the best of both worlds.

AR & VR animated ads
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are introducing new ways to deliver immersive animated ads. For example, an AR-enabled ad could let someone scan a QR code and see an animated character pop up in their environment, making the ad more playful and shareable.

Social platform–driven styles
Short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels are inspiring new visual styles in animated ads — including vertical formats, snappy edits, and stylized transitions. These social-first styles help your ad fit seamlessly into a user’s feed while still delivering a brand message.

By incorporating these trends, you’ll be able to keep your animated ad campaigns fresh, competitive, and highly relevant.

Optimizing Animated Ads for Conversion

Optimizing Animated Ads for Conversion

Making a beautifully animated ad is only half the job — you also need it to drive results. Here are some best practices to optimize your animated ad for higher conversions:

Clear call to action (CTA)
Your CTA should be visible, memorable, and aligned with your campaign objective. Whether you want viewers to click a link, download an app, or sign up for a newsletter, make the CTA appear on screen clearly, both visually and through narration.

Keep your message focused
Avoid trying to say too much. Animated ads work best when they focus on one or two clear takeaways. Simplify your messaging so viewers instantly understand what you offer and what to do next.

Leverage emotional storytelling
Animation is an amazing storytelling medium. Use it to spark emotions — laughter, hope, curiosity — which will improve retention and make your message stick. Emotionally resonant ads also get shared more.

Test variations
Don’t settle on one version. A/B testing different scripts, visual styles, CTAs, or even voiceover tones can reveal what resonates best with your audience and drive higher conversion rates over time.

Optimize for silent playback
Many people watch ads on social platforms with the sound off. Ensure your animated ad still works visually without a voiceover by adding animated text captions and visual storytelling cues.

Measuring Animated Ad Performance

Measuring Animated Ad Performance

Once your animated ad is live, you’ll want to measure its performance. Here’s how to track success:

View-through rate (VTR)
This metric tells you what percentage of viewers watched your ad to completion. Higher VTRs suggest your animation is engaging and relevant.

Click-through rate (CTR)
If your ad includes a link, CTR will reveal how well it motivates people to take action.

Engagement rate
On platforms like TikTok or Instagram, this includes likes, comments, shares, and saves. High engagement is a strong signal of a compelling animated ad.

Conversion rate
Ultimately, you want to know how many viewers completed your desired action — for example, purchasing a product or signing up for a service.

Cost per acquisition (CPA)
Tracking CPA can help you understand how efficiently your animated ad is bringing in customers compared to other forms of advertising.

Heatmaps and viewer drop-off
If you’re running the ad on your website or through YouTube, consider heatmaps or retention graphs to see exactly where viewers drop off. That information can guide future improvements.

Advanced Animation Techniques to Consider

Advanced Techniques to Consider

If you want your animated ad to stand out even more, you can explore these advanced techniques:

Parallax animation
This gives a subtle 3D depth to 2D scenes, creating a more immersive visual experience.

Frame-by-frame character animation
Rather than relying on software shortcuts, animators can handcraft each frame for more fluid and expressive characters, adding personality and charm.

Kinetic typography
Text can be animated in dynamic ways to become part of the storytelling. Kinetic typography is especially useful when you want to keep messages clear in silent playback environments.

Data-driven animation
For B2B brands, consider animations that visualize complex data in a compelling, understandable way. Animated data visualizations help you turn dry stats into stories that captivate audiences.

Procedural animation
This technique uses algorithms to generate motion dynamically, saving production time while creating mesmerizing patterns, transitions, or effects.

Legal Considerations for Animated Ads

Animation Contract

It’s easy to forget that animated ads have legal requirements just like live-action spots. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Music licensing: Make sure you have commercial rights for your soundtrack.

  • Voiceover contracts: Confirm usage rights for the voiceover artist, including any international territories if you plan to distribute globally.

  • Intellectual property: Avoid using characters or assets that resemble copyrighted material.

  • Disclaimers: If your ad makes health or financial claims, check with your legal advisor to add disclaimers where required.

Accessibility in Animated Ads

Accessibility

Finally, remember accessibility. Making your animated ad inclusive helps you reach a broader audience:

  • Provide closed captions for voiceovers.

  • Use high-contrast color palettes to assist visually impaired viewers.

  • Avoid flashing animations that might trigger seizures.

  • Include clear on-screen CTAs instead of only audio-based instructions.

By designing your animated ad with accessibility in mind, you not only follow best practices but also strengthen your brand’s reputation for inclusivity.

How do I save money on my animated advertisement production budget?

For more tips on affordable animation and how to keep your production budget as low as possible, check out this companion article:

Affordable Animation

Still have questions about animated ads?

Do you have a question about making or using an animated ad that wasn’t answered in this FAQ? Use this form to contact us with your question. We will follow up with an answer and then we’ll post the question and answer to this page.

questions

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 animation or 3D video you can imagine. Check out our animated video portfolio!

Watch our explainer video to learn more about how we can help you create an animated ad for your business:

Youtube video

Looking For An Animated Ad Production Company In The U.S.A.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Animated Ad 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

“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

“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

testimonials

Get in touch about creating your animated ad

Schedule a call to discuss your animated ad project with our production team.

Get a quote for us to create your animated advertisement.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

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

contact us

Animator for Hire: How to Find the Right Animator for Your Project

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!
Animator For Hire

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

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

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

Hiring An Animator 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

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

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

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

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:

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

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

Hiring An Animator 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?

Hiring An Animator 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?

Hiring 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.

Tips for Working with an Animator Remotely

Hiring An Animator 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?

Hiring An Animator Why Hire Video Igniter

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.
Still have questions?

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
Success Stories And Testimonials

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.

contact us

What Does 2D Animation Cost?

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.

2D Animation Cost

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.

2D animation cost character design

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?

2D animation cost length

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?

Calculate 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.

Other costs associated with 2D animation

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.

2D animation script cost

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.

2D animation storyboard creation cost

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.

soundtrack

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.

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

2D animation cost saving tips

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?

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

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

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

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:

Animation Type Average Cost per 60 Seconds Notes
Explainer Video $2,000–$7,000 Most popular format; cost depends on illustration detail and motion graphics.
Educational or Training Video $2,500–$10,000 May include character animation, text overlays, and scene transitions.
Commercial or Ad Spot $5,000–$20,000 Higher visual polish for brand storytelling and broadcast use.
Social Media Animation $1,000–$4,000 Shorter videos; can use simpler styles and templates.
Animated Music Video $8,000–$25,000 Complex character animation, synchronized with music.
Product Demo Animation $2,000–$6,000 Clear visuals and motion design showing product use.

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

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?

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.

Final Thoughts on 2D Animation Cost

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.

questions

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

Testimonials

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.

Contact us

2D Animation Examples

Are you looking for 2D animation examples to inspire your next animated video project? Or maybe you’re looking for fresh design inspiration? In either case, here’s a collection of 18 modern 2D animation examples for a variety of industries and use cases.

2D Video Animation Examples

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

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

2D Animation Examples For Businesses


Partner with this company to reduce your business’s monthly utility costs.

T-Mobile uses animation to explain a company initiative designed to help improve the environment.

2D Animation Examples For Startups


2D animations for startups help them get more awareness, leads and sales.

This novel agri-tech startup helps farmers manage their business more efficiently.

Securely identify any person from anywhere in the world.


Online marketplace uses animation to introduce customers to the wordpress themes they sell.

 

2D Animation Examples For Marketing


2D animation marketing example used to promote a new product that keeps garbage out of the ocean.

Online gaming site uses 2D animated video to remind people to opt in to continue to receive email messages from them.

Tradeshow marketing video helps draw visitors in while educating them about the product.

2D Animation Examples For Education


Running your exams online saves you time and money + your tests can automatically grade themselves!

Learn how to quickly pay for your parking ticket so that you don’t get late fees too!

2D Animation Examples For Healthcare Companies



2D animation makes it easy to share the benefits of your medical device with hospitals and healthcare providers.

Never lose your medical records again when you back them up on the blockchain!

2D Animation Examples For Blockchain Companies


2D animation makes it easier to understand how complicated blockchain services work.

Streamline your banana purchases with this banana-focused cryptocurrency.

If you want to buy cryptocurrency, you’ll need to use an exchange to buy cryptocurrencies off the blockchain.

Learn what a stable coin is and how it is different from other cryptocurrencies.

Looking for a different kind of 2D animation example?

Are you looking for an example of a different style of 2D 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.

Still have questions about 2D animation examples?

Are you looking for a 2D animation example using a visual style that wasn’t shown here? We have hundreds of 2D animated video examples in our offline portfolio. Use this form to get in touch. Let us know what kind of visual style you’re interested in and we’ll dig up some 2d animated video examples from our archive.

Still have questions?

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!

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

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Check out our demo reel below:

 

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

“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

testimonials

Get in touch!

Now that you’ve checked out our 2D animation examples, get in touch with our production team to discuss your 2D animated video project.

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.

Fill out a creative brief for your video, we’ll generate a quote for the project and begin production as soon as we receive your production deposit.

contact us

100 Ways Animation Can Improve The World

To celebrate Video Igniter’s 100th blog post, we brainstormed a list of 100 ways animation can improve the world. Here, you’ll find creative new ways animation can be used to improve education, entertain people, make life a little easier, more delightful and even a few ways to help save the environment. Other ideas presented in here are tried and true use cases for companies to create and use custom animated videos to grow their businesses.  After seeing all these examples of animations being used in our every day lives, it makes us think we’re only scratching the surface of what’s possible with animation.

100 Ways Animation Can Improve The World

1). Illustrate and animate an inside joke between your friends to share and remember the memory.

2). Animated video wedding invitations are more memorable, less expensive to produce and ship, and it’s environmentally friendly.

3). Animated instructions could show how to assemble IKEA furniture. It would make it easier for people to visually see and understand how the pieces are assembled, it would reduce support calls and it would eliminate the need to cut down trees to print paper booklets of instructions in multiple languages.

4). Animated street signs can communicate directions to all people including people who are illiterate people and who don’t speak the local language.

5). A shooting range with animated targets to shoot at would save the range from having to buy and replace physical moving targets that get destroyed after use.

6). An animated overview of your day or week ahead can show you your schedule of activities so that you know what to anticipate in your life. Animated visual reminders aid in recall and establishing a memory for the upcoming events of the day/week.

7). Instead of receiving a paper bill in the mail, you can receive a custom animated video that shows and explains all the costs associated with your bill. Animated infographics help visualize how your monthly usage changes over time and could even include tips to help save on utilities.

8). Animation is the fastest and easiest way to learn, understand and remember new information. Seems like the top search result for many questions on Google could eventually be various animated videos.

9). Instead of using static image posts, animated concert, tour, event and festival posters are becoming the norm because their subtle eye-catching animations are a new extension of the event’s personality, energy and excitement.

10). Animated screensavers for TVs, desktop computers and projectors have extended the usable life of the devices by helping to avoid burning pixels in the display. Of course, the best option is to just the devices off when you’re not using them.

11). During the peak of COVID, many people wanted to understand exactly what the virus did inside the body to make it so dangerous and contagious. People also wanted to understand how the new vaccines worked to protect people. If you were to have a scientist speak directly to people on camera and explain what was happening, most people would be lost. You can’t film what’s going on because it’s too small to see with a normal camera. But animation can be used to show exactly what’s happening in the body while the scientist narrates what is happening in simple, user-friendly science terms.

Youtube video

12). Instead of answering the same customer support questions again and again, create animated videos that explain the answers to your most commonly asked questions to help reduce your customer support costs. This video we helped produce for Bridjit helps customers understand how to set the product up at home.

Youtube video

13). Children’s ebooks designed for colorful tablets can make use of the powerful screen to add subtle motion design to the illustrations on each page to enhance the viewer’s perception of the world they’re reading about.

14). If you run a medical practice, creating animated videos that explain procedures and your clinic’s policies will help your patients be better informed about what their procedure entails. Your team will also have their time freed up from having to explain things like payment details again and again.

15). Animation can show the history of countries and cultures around the world.

Youtube video

16). Animation can be used to tell visual stories during DJ sets.

17). Watching animated visuals can help you pace your breathing and induce a state of relaxation.

Youtube video

18). Create a short animated intro for your video podcast or YouTube series to heighten the production value of your content.

19). Concert sized animated holograms. By displaying animations on massive transparent screens, you create the effect of a larger than life hologram.

Youtube video

20). Looping animations can give users of your app something to watch while they are forced to be patient for content to load or for a process to complete. This helps placate users and keeps more of them in your app while the process completes instead of losing their attention to another app on their phone.

21). Projecting animations onto buildings can make the buildings look like they are moving and changing form.

Youtube video

22). Animated diagrams can be posted as animated GIFs or videos to help people understand processes. Anticipate seeing more of these in educational textbooks within the coming years.

23). Animated e-learning courses teach content fast and efficiently while making it easier for people to remember the content (compared to watching a lecturer drone on).

Youtube video

24). Use animation to run interactive scenarios. Animated scenarios in VR enable people to have a more immersive experience when getting exposure to new or dangerous experiences.

25). Modern robots use a digital screen to display fake eyes that can animate and express emotion and information. What’s more, the full screen can be overtaken to display full screen animations to help the user understand information like recipes or what the weather is going to be.

Animated Robot Eyes

26). Animations of 3D models can be used to show the inner workings of a product in a way that a camera couldn’t possibly film.

Youtube video

27). 3D animation enables real estate developers and investors to see the building designs they’re developing. This makes it easier feel and explore what the places would be like so that changes can be made before the project begins. It also gives them the ability to visualize what kind of impact those changes will have before committing them to the official design.

28). Instead of hiring extra sales people to travel and pitch your business, develop an animated sales video to act as a virtual demo presenter. Send your video to eligible prospects, follow up with all of them and use your experienced sales people to close the deal.

29). Animation can be used to show users of your website or app what to do next. Animation guides their attention to the next step and shows them what to do.

30). Projecting animations on your dinner creates a fun, memorable interactive experience.

Youtube video

31). Motion graphics animations are used to bring attention to details you want to highlight while keeping your video content engaging.

32). Animation costs used to be out of reach for most companies. Now, it’s possible to afford to produce your own animated video series for your brand.

33). Animated light up shirts that react to music.

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34). Augmented reality enables you to see something through your phone or tablet’s screen that doesn’t exist in reality. Some new tech-forward fashion companies are creating clever ways to integrate augmented reality features into your clothing.

Youtube video

35). Spinning LED fans can give the appearance of 3D animated objects floating in the air.

Youtube video

36). While you are standing in an elevator, an animated screen can display upcoming events in the building, nearby and what the weather and traffic are like for the day.

37). Animated diagrams display health tracking stats on phones, tablets and smart watches to show you how your health stats change over time.

38). Lightform animated murals.

Youtube video

39). When AR hits the masses, we’ll have animated navigation instructions projected in front of us.

Youtube video

40). Thousands of drones flying together can produce 3D animated visuals in the sky.

Youtube video

41). Animated maps in malls and subways can help visually direct people in the right direction and show when trains are entering and leaving the station in real time.

Youtube video

42). Comic books for ebook readers can now include animated panels!

43). The jury is still out on this one but we think we’ll still some interesting things happen in the world of animated NFTs.

44). Museums use animated videos to enhance museum displays by helping to explain the historic, artistic or scientific contribution each piece delivered to the world.

45). Meow Wolf.

46). Short animated motion graphics can be used to explain the pros and cons of each side of an argument on a voting ballot. A lot of people don’t take the time to read and understand both sides of the things they vote for. Using animated visuals to quickly explain the change that would happen on either side of the voting initiative would increase the number of well informed voters.

Youtube video

47). Animated infographics can help people understand data, information and trends because visualizing that content helps people become able appreciate something they couldn’t fathom without some sort of visual context.

48). Animated marketing videos can help drive awareness for your business. Using proper video marketing and video promotion techniques, you can get millions of people to visit your website in a short amount of time. Better still, when you work with a team like Video Igniter, we have the technical skills to see which videos and audiences are driving the most sales so you can optimize your promotion budget to rapidly grow your sales. Get in touch if you’re interested in video promotion for your company.

49). Animated cartoon mascots are now easier to develop and include across your various media assets. Bring a consistent personality to your content and make your brand instantly recognizable when people see your character.

50). Animated sheet music can automatically progress so that the right notes are always displayed directly in front of the musician. No more need for your eyes to keep track of the music across different lines or pages. Best part is: no more turning pages in the middle of playing a song.

51). Creating an animated corporate video is a cost-effective, high impact to explain what your business does, what your values are and how you can help your customers.

52). Animated product videos can help you show off what your product looks like and how it functions. Adding one to your sales page helps to educate customers and ultimately leads to more sales.

53). Creating an app explainer video helps people quickly evaluate if your app is right for them – or at least if worth downloading it and giving it a try.

54). This glass keyboard displays interactive animations beneath the keys that can respond your touch when you type.

Youtube video

55). Animated lyric videos enable people to understand the words of their favorite songs. It’s an artistic animated sing along.

56). Improve the conversion rate of your landing pages and sales page with an animated video. Here’s how.

Improve your conversion rate with animated videos

57). Animated lights on runways enable pilots to see where they’re supposed to land – even when visibility is poor.

Youtube video

58). Animation is great for adding eye catching content to your sizzle reel to quickly attract people’s interest and motivate them to want to learn more about your agency, video production company, event production company, etc.

59). The Metaverse is 100% powered by animation. Fully immersive VR interactive worlds are created entirely through animation!

60). Services like Bitable enable to create video resumes with eye-catching animated infographics and statistics about he individual to help them stand out.

61). In the ocean of live action social media content filmed on smartphone camera, animated content stands out from the rest. Eye-candy thumbnails encourage more people to tap on your video to see what it’s all about.

62). Created an animated Christmas or holiday card to show what your family has been up to over the last year.

63). Animated trail maps can show different hiking routes and dynamically display images of plants, animals and scenic lookouts to anticipate on each route.

64). Instead of bugging your clients by sending them marketing emails once a week, contact them less often and send them higher quality content when you do reach out. Consider sending a short educational animated video to your clients once a month or once each quarter to share value with them and provide a soft reminder that your company exists.

65). It’s possible to help speed up long lines at T.S.A. security checkpoints, voting booths, theme parks, baseball stadiums etc, by displaying messages to people on animated screens by informing people to have their tickets and ID ready for scanning. Displaying a list of prohibited items can also help speed up lines and save security teams from having to explain policies to each individual that comes through the line.

66). New Years Eve countdowns around the world are powered by custom animated videos projected on large buildings or displayed on gigantic screens.

Youtube video

67). What if the graphic design on your shirt could move? Maybe it’s an angel with wings that flap. Or a cyborg whose eye blinks at you. But how does it work? A specially designed shirt contains a special pocket to hold your phone. Your phone’s screen animates through a hole in the front of the shirt making it look like the shirt’s printed design is actually animated and moving!

Youtube video

68). LaserCubes can animate designs and patterns on buildings far away.
Youtube video

69). Pixel sticks are LED bars that produce animations when you move them. Beautiful for live performances and time lapse photography.

70). Specially designed mechanical lightbulbs can make it look like snowflakes are animating down the face of your home during the holiday season.

71). Projectors can be used to project animated shadow puppet shows.

72). Send a personalized animated video to your clients to thank them for all the business they did with you over the previous year. It’s possible to create an animated video template and provide custom data to render out an individual video for each person so that it includes their name in the presentation of the video. Here are some examples:

73). Decorative water fountains and pulsed light can be animated together to display animated images falling through the air.

Youtube video

74). Your bank could send you an animated infographic instead of a paper statement. The animated infographic could show trends in your spending habits to help you understand where your money is going, where you can save money, and how much your money could earn if you invested $X/month.

75). Projectors can beam animated guidance in real time onto a pool table to help you see how you should line up your shot.

Youtube video

76). Dental clinics could send animated stop motion videos of their patient’s mouth X-rays to show how they’ve changed over time.

77). Animated 3D models enable people to zoom around and explore the universe from the comfort of their local planetarium.

Youtube video

78). Gyms and quick serve restaurants have monitors that display animated motion graphics to educate, entertain and inform people during their idle moments in the venue.

79). The Pepper’s Ghost Illusion is an old but very clever way to create animated holograms that look like a ghost.

Youtube video

80). Animation is what enables us to play 2D, 3D, AR and VR games!

81). 3D Zoetropes are some of the coolest moving objects you can ever look at. It’s like a physical 3D animated flip book:

Youtube video

82). Programmable animated LED shirt lets you type out and sketch images on your phone that are shown on an animated marquee display built into the shirt.
Youtube video

83). Animated flipbooks are fun to play with and mesmerizing to watch. A company called Flipboku designed some cool new animated flip books that you can color in yourself and another kind of flipbook that can display up to 6 different animations, depending how you flip through the book.

Youtube video

84). Animation is even used in magic tricks! Japanese magician Katsuda Masuda has developed several amazing animated magic tricks that need to be seen to believe. Check out this one where he punctures a hole into a picture and makes it animate and move across the picture:
Youtube video

85). Indoor galaxy lights can simulate the effect of projecting an animated galaxy light and star pattern across your ceiling.
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86). Your credit card company could send an animated infographic each month to explain your statement and show you how much money you can save by paying off your credit card debt quicker.

87). Animated lights projected on the ground inform airplane passengers when it’s their turn to line up to get on the plane.

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88). Pseudo 3D animated billboards. More of this, please.

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89). Interactive animated flooring.

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90). Creating an explainer video for your startup can help your leads and prospects quickly understand what your company does and how it can benefit them if they use it. If you want to help attract new users and customers for your startup, contact us about creating a startup explainer video.

91). Old appliances used to use liquid crystal displays to produce digital images of the time and settings on a device. Now a days, seamless digital animations are part of the aesthetic of modern appliances:

Youtube video

92). Animations aren’t just digital projections. Physical objects can also animate. Check out these artistic animations:

Youtube video

93). Creating an animated logo for your brand is a creative way to articulate your brand’s personality with visual motion design.

94). Animated language learning programs can make language learning fun. Animated visuals can help the viewer enhance their memory recall and retention to speed up the learning process.

95). The internet technology “CSS” and the “SVG” file format are used to create crisp animations that can be displayed on websites to delight visitors. There’s one at the top of almost all the blog posts on our site.

96). Abstract psychedelic animated visuals are becoming their own form of hypnotic art:

Youtube video

97). Animated traffic lights countdown to show drivers when the signal is going to change. This design isn’t legal in the US but countries around the world are experimenting to see what impact this design can offer.

Youtube video

98). Audi’s ‘Swarm’ lighting concept reimagines what the light system on the back of passenger vehicles would look like if they were replaced with a solid screen. Animated visuals not only show when the turn signal is on or when the driver is breaking, they also inform drivers behind the Audi how hard the driver is hitting the brakes by showing a dramatic increase in the amount of red animated lines on the back of the vehicle.

Youtube video

99). BMW’s color changing concept car uses e-ink displays on the exterior to display 32 different colors. The newest prototype can even display multiple colors at a time which animate across the surface of the car.

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100). Project LFX – animated projection mapping for games, movies, and checking apps like email, the weather and your calendar. Unfortunately, the company shut down but hopefully this project gets revived some day.

Youtube video

 

100 Ways Animation Can Improve The World Summary

If you’ve made it this far, you can now see that animation is everywhere! From games to education and beyond, animation’s presence in our world isn’t just limited to movies on our screens. Animation is becoming an integrated and interactive part of the physical world around us. Something tells us this is just the beginning…

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 animation or 3D animated video you can imagine. Check out our video portfolio!

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

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

 

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

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Success Stories & Testimonials

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

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

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

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

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

Anonymous Customer Feedback

Success Stories & Testimonials

Looking to make an animated video? Get in touch with our team!

Thanks for reading our list of 100 Ways Animation Can Improve The World. We’d love to help you create your own custom animated video.

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.

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What Is The Animation Process Like For Creating A Video?

Do you want to learn about the animation process that’s used for creating custom animated videos? Video Igniter’s FAQ about the animated video production process answers all the most popular questions people have about how to create 2D animated videos and 3D animations.

animation process

In this article, we cover:

  • The animation process for creating a custom animated video.
  • Why it’s important to follow a process when creating an animated video.
  • How long does animation take?
  • Tips to save money during the animation process.
  • …and more!

animated video production process

Do you have a question about the animation process that isn’t answered in this article? Use this form to get in touch with us to ask your question or click the image below to schedule a call with a member of our production team.

 

Examples of Videos You Can Get From Video Igniter’s Animation Production Process

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

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

 

What is the animation process like for creating a custom animated video?

1). Get clear about what you want to create

Before you begin the animation process or think about about who is going to animate your video, you need to get clear about what you want to create in the first place! What visual style is your animation going to use? 2D animation or 3D animation? How long is your video going to be? Do you need help promoting your video? Who is going to create the script – you or them? What about the storyboard?

Once you’re clear about what you want to make, it’ll be easier for you to find the right kind of video animator for your project.

animation process questions

2). Hire an animated video production company

Now that you have a clear idea of what you want to create, the next step of the animation process is to find an animated video production company that can help you produce your style of video, on time and within your budget.

animation process hire production company

Linkedin, Fiverr, Craigslist, Google and Video Igniter are all great places to find talented animators for your project. Below are some video production resources that will help you figure out if the animators you found will be a good fit for your project:

3). Collect your assets

Before production begins, take some time to organize the assets your production team may need during production. Here’s a list of things to dig up for your production team:

  • Logo
  • Fonts
  • Icons
  • Mascot
  • Brand Guidelines
  • Style References
  • Optional: Script and Storyboard

4). Questionnaire

animation process questionnaire

After you’ve paid the production team to produce your video, the animation process officially begins with a questionnaire or a phone call to learn more details about your project. This is your opportunity to explain in detail to the animation team:

  • What key talking points you want to include in your video.
  • What visual style you want to use.
  • Any ideas you have for the visuals that you want to show during different parts of your video/script.

5). Script

animation process script

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Now that the production team has an in-depth understanding of what you want to create, the next step of the animation process is to create your script. Your script provides structure for the whole project. Whether you write the script or hire the animation team to create it for you, ensure that the script clearly articulates your key talking points. Make sure the wording used speaks to your target audience in the way they’re used to communicating about the topic.

6). Storyboard

animation process storyboard

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

After the script is approved, the next step of the animation process is creating the storyboard. The storyboard is the blueprint for your animated video. It tells the illustrators and animators what to create. Without this document, you’d be leaving too much up to interpretation during the animation process and expensive rework may be needed to redo parts of your animation that don’t turn out the way you want to. You can avoid this by providing simple, clear instructions for the illustrators and animators in the storyboard.

You can create the storyboard using our template or hire the animation team to produce it for you. If they produce the storyboard for you, you will get an opportunity to review your storyboard and request revisions before approving it for production.

7). VoiceOver

voiceover

Once the storyboard is locked in, your production team will help you get voiceover(s) recorded for your animation. The process for getting voiceovers typically starts with recording auditions from multiple qualified VO talents. Then, you get a chance to review them and select your favorite option(s). Your production team will then oversee the recording of the full voiceover to ensure it uses the correct pacing, pronunciation, and energy. You will be given an opportunity to review the voiceover and request revisions before moving on to the next step of the animation process.

8). Soundtrack

soundtrack

While your animation team is getting the voiceover recorded, they will also help you select a soundtrack to enhance your animated video. This is an important step of the animation process because picking the right video soundtrack will set the emotional tone of your animation’s presentation; selecting the wrong track (or not using any music) will make your video feel flat and lifeless – or worse, the music could be off putting and make people stop watching. The right soundtrack will feel right. You’ll know it when you hear it and see the two playing together.

9). Illustration

The next step of the animation process is creating the art for your animated video. Illustrations begin as concept art. The art director will take a key scene from your storyboard, review your style references/brand guidelines, and design 1 or more pieces of custom concept art.

animation process concept art

Review the concept(s) and let the art director know which one you prefer. You can also tell them that you want to refine the selected visual style first before approving the concept for production.

After the concept art is approved, the art team will follow your storyboard and design all of the custom art for your video based off of the approved concept art.

animation process illustrations

You get an opportunity to review all the illustrations and request revisions before moving on to the next stage of the animation process.

10). Animation

We’re getting close to the end of the animation process because it’s time to actually animate! After all the assets have been created and approved, it’s time to animate. It takes about 1 week to create a 60-second custom animation. 3D animations take 2-3x as much time.

animation process animator

When the first draft is ready, give it a detailed review with your team and members of your target audience. Collect everyone’s feedback and share it with your production team so they can incorporate the edits and render out the final draft.

11). Wrapping Up The Animation Production Process: Post Production & Special Edits

After the final draft is approved, it’s time to handle any special edits or requests from the client including:

  • Translating the video into another language
  • Editing down a shorter version of the video
  • Cropping the video for different aspect ratios (for social media)

Why is it important to follow a process when creating an animation?

video promotion post production

The animated video production process is structured so that a production company can understand your vision for the video and then create a set of instructions for the illustrators and animators so that they know what to create. If you try and skip creating a storyboard for your video, the whole animation process gets thrown off. It would leave too much up for interpretation with your production team. Ultimately, this would lead to budget increases and more time in order to fix the animation to make it look more like what you were imagining.

How Long Does Animation Take?

The length of the animation process varies depending on the length of the video being created and the visual style of the video. Here is a typical production schedule for a 1-2 minute 2D animated video:

  • Script Creation + Revisions: ~1 week
  • Storyboard Creation + Revisions: ~1 week
  • Concept Art, VoiceOver Auditions & Soundtrack Selection: 2 days – 1 week
  • Illustration: 1 – 2 weeks
  • Animation: 1 – 2 weeks

If you want to create a 3D animated video, expect production to take ~2-3x as much time.

 

animation process timeline

How much does the animation production process cost?

The answer to this question also depends on the length and style of the video being created. Here are some data points to provide context:

  • A custom 2D animated video that’s 1 minute long usually costs $1,000-$10,000 to produce.
  • Fancier frame by frame 2D animation costs at least 2X as much.
  • 3D animation costs +2-4x more than 2D animation to produce.
  • A full Pixar movie costs $30,000,000-$150,000,000 to produce.

animation process cost

How to save money during the animation process?

animation process budget saving tips

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

Affordable Animation

Different Types of Animation Processes Explained

The animation process isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your video goals, audience, timeline, and budget, you may want to pursue a specific type of animation production workflow. Here are some common animation styles and how their processes differ:

2D Animation Process

The 2D animation process is commonly used for explainer videos, commercials, and educational content. It typically involves:

  • Flat illustrations created in vector-based software like Adobe Illustrator.
  • Rigged characters using tools like Adobe After Effects, Moho, or Toon Boom.
  • Limited animation techniques to save time and budget while still producing high-quality visuals.

This process is ideal for fast turnarounds and clear communication, especially when working with abstract concepts or digital products.

Different Types of Animation Processes Explained

3D Animation Process

The 3D animation process is more complex and time-intensive. It includes:

  • Modeling: Building three-dimensional characters and environments.
  • Texturing: Applying surface details like skin, fabric, or metallic finishes.
  • Rigging & Skinning: Creating a digital skeleton so characters can be animated.
  • Lighting & Rendering: Setting up scene lighting and exporting high-quality visuals frame by frame.

Because of its realism and versatility, 3D animation is popular in architecture, gaming, product demos, and entertainment.

Motion Graphics Process

Motion graphics focus on animated text, shapes, and icons to convey messages quickly. The motion graphics animation process skips character rigging and focuses on timing, transitions, and visual storytelling. It’s often used for data visualization, logo reveals, and short-form social content.

Stop Motion Animation Process

Although less common in digital production pipelines, stop motion uses real-world models and physical props. The animation process involves taking thousands of photos, moving characters incrementally between each shot. This analog method requires intense planning, set design, and post-production editing, making it a labor of love with a unique aesthetic.

Pre-Production: The Most Crucial Stage in the Animation Process

Pre-Production The Most Crucial Stage in the Animation Process

Pre-production is the foundation of a successful animated video. While many clients are eager to dive into illustration and animation, this early stage is where most creative problems are solved before they cost time and money.

During pre-production, you should:

  • Finalize your script to avoid last-minute rewrites that derail production.
  • Align on a visual style to ensure consistent art direction.
  • Confirm your core message and call to action.
  • Approve a production schedule to manage timelines and stakeholder reviews.

The more effort you put into planning the animation process upfront, the smoother the rest of the journey will be.

Check out Video Igniter’s Pre-Production Checklist.

Animation Review Cycles and Feedback Best Practices

Animation Review Cycles and Feedback Best Practices

Revisions are a natural part of the animation process—but if not managed carefully, they can create delays and unnecessary costs. Here are a few tips for giving effective feedback during your animation project:

  • Be specific: Instead of saying “make it pop,” explain what you want changed (e.g., “increase the contrast” or “use a bolder color for the call-to-action button”).
  • Consolidate feedback: Gather all notes from your team before submitting them to the animation studio.
  • Stick to the plan: Avoid making major changes to the script or visual direction once you’ve approved earlier stages like the storyboard or illustrations.

Staying organized during the review stages helps ensure a streamlined animation process from first draft to final delivery.

How to Make the Most of Your Animated Video After Production

How to Make the Most of Your Animated Video After Production

The animation process doesn’t end when the video is delivered. To maximize ROI, you need a strong distribution strategy. Here are ways to get more value out of your animated video:

  • Upload to YouTube and optimize your title, description, and tags for search.
  • Embed the video on landing pages to increase conversion rates.
  • Share it on social media with captions and hashtags to expand reach.
  • Include it in email campaigns to improve open rates and click-throughs.
  • Repurpose it into blog posts, GIFs, short social clips, or infographics.

Each additional use of your video adds value and helps reinforce your brand message across multiple touchpoints.

Animation Process for Businesses vs. Animation for Entertainment

Animation Process for Businesses vs. Animation for Entertainment

It’s worth noting that the animation process differs depending on whether you’re producing content for marketing vs. entertainment:

  • Business animation (e.g., explainer videos, product demos) is usually short-form, goal-driven, and designed to convert or inform. The process is streamlined with tight timelines and budgets.
  • Entertainment animation (e.g., cartoons, web series) often involves episodic content, deeper character development, and extended timelines. The production pipeline may also include writing rooms, sound design teams, and more complex asset libraries.

Understanding your content’s purpose will help you choose the right animation process and team.

Tips for First-Time Clients Going Through the Animation Process

Tips for First-Time Clients Going Through the Animation Process

If this is your first time commissioning an animated video, here are a few things that will help you navigate the animation process more smoothly:

  • Ask about the number of revision rounds included in the quote.
  • Request a detailed timeline with production milestones.
  • Clarify who is responsible for writing the script, sourcing music, and managing voiceover talent.
  • Discuss licensing and ownership rights for final deliverables and raw assets.

Being proactive about communication and expectations will lead to a better experience for both you and your animation team.

Conclusion: Mastering the Animation Process Leads to Better Videos

Mastering the Animation Process Leads to Better Videos

The animation process is a structured, step-by-step journey that transforms a rough idea into a polished, professional video. Whether you’re creating a quick explainer or a full-blown 3D production, following the proper animation workflow ensures your project stays on budget, on time, and on brand.

By understanding each stage—from script and storyboard to animation and post-production—you can make smarter decisions, give better feedback, and ultimately get a video that delivers real results for your business or brand.

Need help getting started with your animation process? Contact Video Igniter today to speak with a production specialist, get a free quote, or access our downloadable templates to plan your next video like a pro.

Still have questions about the animation process?

Do you have a question about the animation process that wasn’t included in this FAQ?  Use this form to contact us with your question. We will follow up with an answer and then we’ll post the question and answer to this page.

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What is Video Igniter Animation?

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

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

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

Watch our explainer video to learn more about how we can help you create an animated video for your business.

Animation Success Stories & 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.”

Anonymous Customer Feedback

“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

testimonials

Get In Touch!

Schedule a call with our production team to discuss your video project.

Get a quote for us to create your animated video project.

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Check out our animated video portfolio to see our latest and greatest creations.

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

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