Video Igniter Animation Blog Archives

Examples Of Explainer Video Scripts & How To Write A Script

September 20, 2022/in Video Igniter Animation Blog/by Video Igniter Animation

Planning on making an animated explainer video and want to learn more about explainer video scripts? In this article, we’ll cover explainer video script writing. You’ll also get to see some explainer video script examples. We’ll even teach you about how to organize an explainer video’s structure and provide an explainer video template you can use to write your script. After writing explainer video scripts for over a decade, the team at Video Igniter has compiled and included include our tips and best practices to write a great script for your video.

Content:

1). The Importance of Good Script Writing

2). Explainer Video Script Examples

3). How to Write an Explainer Video Script

4). Animated Explainer Video Script Template

5). Explainer Video Script Writing FAQ

6). How to Maximize Your Script Writing

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

1). The Importance of Good Script Writing

Script writing is like creating the skeleton of your video. It provides the outline for the entire explainer video. It also helps you identify what visuals need to be created, in what order to tell your story.

Good storytelling will keep your viewer engaged. If the pacing and presentation of the ideas goes in a logical order, all the pieces of information you explain in your video will help the viewer get a better understanding of the big new topic you are presenting to them in the video. Without good storytelling, you have nothing. Don’t rush this step because it’s hard to go back and fix a video that started with bad storytelling.

After the script is approved, you can proceed to storyboard creation. The script and storyboard are necessary for the design and animation teams know what they are supposed to create.

Want to save on your production budget? Check out our script writing guide and storyboard template. Creating your own script and storyboard can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars off the cost of your explainer video.

Download our free script writing template.

2). Explainer Video Script Examples:

If you’re wondering “what is a good explainer video script” – we compiled some examples for you to review. We also included the videos that were created from those scripts so you can see how they looked when they were turned into custom animated videos. Most of these examples are 60 second explainer video scripts. The last example is a 30 second explainer video script.

60 Second Explainer Video Script Example:

Meet Aver – the simple, effective identity verification provider.

What if it was possible to safely identify someone from different countries? Regions? And cities, across the globe – with just a selfie!?

Aver’s DNA is built on facial recognition and artificial intelligence.

This enables you to perform instantaneous, complex identity checks which are displayed through an easy to use dashboard.

Smartwatch AML enables visual watchlist searching – which ensure people can not hide under an alias anymore.

Aver’s ease of integration enables you to catch all the bad actors without needing an army of analysts and developers.

Our mission is to change the way the world shares their identity.

We’re creating a global compliance standard for all businesses.

Aver – Identity that works. To learn more, visit www.goaver.com.

Resulting Video:

B2B Explainer Video Script Example:

Do you think you are overpaying for worker’s comp?

If you run a business with responsible, well trained employees, you deserve a break on your worker’s compensation premiums…

…and Approach Management Services is here to help!

Washington State’s Retrospective Rating Program incentivizes businesses to create safer work environments, by giving you a refund on your premium if you reduce workplace injuries and lower claim costs.

Approach helps thousands of Washington state companies reduce their worker’s comp premiums, earn refunds, and navigate the complex claims process.

With Approach, you’ll have your own dedicated claims coordinator to guide you every step of the way.

You’ll also have access to our highly acclaimed safety team who can help create safety programs and assist if L&I is ever at your workplace.

Since 1992, we have saved our clients over $565 million dollars!

If you want to improve your workplace safety and learn how much money you could be saving, fill out our interest form at www.approachms.com.

Resulting Video:

Example Script For a 30 Second Animated Explainer:

Tired of noise near the lab limiting your research?

Herzan helps researchers improve their measurements by removing environmental noise through its acoustic, vibration and EMI isolation solutions.

Herzan’s active vibration control platforms protect the world’s most advanced microscopes from low- frequency vibration noise.

Our custom enclosure delivers the quietest working environment possible, and magnetic field cancellation systems shield electron microscopes from disruptive AC/DC fields.

To learn how Herzan can support your research and achieve better measurements, contact Sales@Herzan.com.

Resulting Video:

3). How to Write an Explainer Video Script

Before you write your script, you may want to create an explainer video outline. Start by creating a list of all the talking points you want to cover within your explainer video. Then organize the points into categories. Identify the main topic and supporting topics to organize your thoughts.

If you’re writing a script for a corporate explainer video, a business or a startup, we recommend using the following outline when drafting your script. This will help you organize the presentation of your ideas in a way that will encourage the viewer to take action after they finish watching your explainer video.

1). Explain the status quo.

What problem is your target audience dealing with? Use the first 10 seconds (~22-30 words) of your script to address your target audience and the pain they experience with a common problem they encounter.

What is the status quo?

2). What is the solution?

Now, you can introduce your company’s product/service as the hero to the viewer’s problem. Don’t explain everything right now. Just use the next 10 seconds of the script to introduce the solution and mention what they do to alleviate the problem.

3). Talk about the ways your solution will help solve the viewer’s problem.

Next, we recommend illustrating the top 3 ways your product/service can help the viewer. Spend about 30 seconds providing an overview of the benefits the viewer can experience if they decide to start using the product/service.

4). Remind them to take action

Include a call to action at the end of your explainer video script.

Wrap up the script with a reminder that the viewer can experience all these amazing benefits if ________. The “_______” should be whatever is the next step the viewer needs to take in order to get your product/service. This could be creating a free online account or downloading an app. Other times it’s an email address or a phone number to get in touch with the sales team. Whatever you do, don’t forget to include this “call to action” at the end of the video. This way, no matter where someone sees your video, they will know how to buy from you.

For a more detailed explanation on how to write a script for an explainer video, check out this companion article.

4). Explainer Video Script Template

We created an explainer video script template you can use to write your own script and save money on your production budget. You can view the Google Docs version of the explainer video script template here. You can also download it as a free explainer video script PDF template.

5). Explainer Video Scriptwriting FAQ:

How long should my script be?

Typically, explainer video scripts are 30 seconds-3 minutes for corporate explainer videos. These get the point across quickly before the audience looses attention. Other non-commercial forms of education and entertainment can produce explainer videos that are 5-10 minutes or longer.

When you write the script for your explainer video, aim for about 150 words per minute. You could go up to 180 words but after that, the narration is going to sound rushed. Don’t be afraid to have a shorter script closer to 120 words per minute. This allows for time to add pauses and vary the pace of your presentation which ultimately helps keep the viewer’s attention engaged.

Aim for 125-150 when writing the script for a 60-second explainer video.

How long does it take to write a script?

Scriptwriting can be a fast process if your timeline is tight and your team is nimble. Usually the script writing process takes 1-2 weeks. After the client sends all the background information to the writing team, the writer(s) identify key talking points to include in the video. Additionally, they spend time researching and understanding your target audience to figure out how to best convey the main talking points in your explainer video script. The first draft takes 1-3 days to complete. After you do an internal review and send us your feedback, our writers typically revise scripts and send them back to you within 24-48 hours.

It takes a few weeks to make an explainer video.

What does it cost to write a script for an animated explainer video?

Animation studios typically charge a few hundred dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars to write scripts for explainer videos. Most studios don’t charge on the high end and rely on information you provide them to create the script. High end script writing services include detailed research programs to understand the target audience and test which language and messages resonate with them. You can request a copy of Video Igniter’s newest price sheet for our current script writing rates.

Want to know what goes into the cost of an explainer video?

6). How to Maximize Your Scriptwriting

Want even more tips to improve the script for your animated explainer video? Check out this companion article: “7 Tips to Supercharge Your Explainer Video Script Writing.”

7). Want To See More Explainer Video Script Writing Examples?

Would you like to see more video script examples for a type of video or industry you didn’t see here? Use this page to message us and let us know what type(s) of explainer video script examples you would like to see.

Explainer Video Resources

These popular explainer video resources are recommended for your video production journey:

How long does it take to make an animated explainer video?

What explainer video services does Video Igniter provide?

How to create a 3D explainer video?

How do I hire and collaborate with an animated explainer video company to create my video?

Hire Video Igniter To Write Your Script And Make Your Explainer Video!

We write scripts and make custom explainer videos for world-class brands like T-Mobile, Amazon Web Services and Linkedin @ prices startups can afford.

Check out our portfolio.

Interested in getting some pricing info? Get yourself a copy of our latest rate sheet.

+20 reasons companies love hiring Video Igniter to create animated videos.

Explainer Video Demo Reel

Explainer Video Success Stories & Testimonials

“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 made 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 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 found exactly what I needed: custom animated production with lots of options, fair price and fast communication. I loved working with the Video Igniter Team. Million thanks.”

Antonina Rome, MD – Bioresona

Explainer Video Success Stories & Testimonials

Get An Animated Explainer Video For Your Business!

Schedule a call to discuss script writing and your animated explainer video project.

Get a quote for your explainer video.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

Create your Video Igniter account and we’ll start writing the script for your explainer video.

What is Video Igniter Animation?

3D Animated Video FAQ + How To Make a 3D Animated Video?

September 13, 2022/in Video Igniter Animation Blog/by Video Igniter Animation

3D animated video pushes the boundary of what digital artists can create for the screen. We can look at things we could never see with the naked eye. 3D animation transports us to entirely new immersive worlds. They can even show us photorealistic renders of our own world. While they are complicated and take more time and talent to produce than other kinds of videos, this guide provides an overview of some of the most frequently asked questions about making 3D animated videos to help you figure out how to get a 3D animation produced for your own needs.

3D Animation And Design

If you have a question about 3D animated videos that isn’t answered in this article, you can use our contact form to ask your question or click the image below to with a member of our production team:

When To Create a 2D vs 3D Animation?

3D animated videos are able to show extra details that can’t be shown in 2D animated videos. It’s like the difference between looking at a picture of something vs having a model of that thing (or the real thing itself) to understand it. Sure, the picture shows you what something looks like, but a 3D animation shows you how something is. You can look inside it, you can go around it. It can be manipulated and changed to show how it evolves under certain conditions. These details can be abstractly represented in 2D animation with different techniques but it’s far from seeing what’s actually going on.

Industries That Use 3D Animation

3D Animation For Manufacturing & Architecture

When it really matters – when you need to see the details of what is going on, 3D animation is the best way to visualize what you want to show or communicate to people. This is particularly useful for mechanical and technical companies that want to show off how their physical creations function.

Marketers Stand Out with 3D Animations

The Internet is becoming an ocean of videos – and very few of those videos are 3D. If you want your message to stand out, investing a little more time and money in a 3D animated video can help your message rise above the noise.

3D Animation For Science & Medical Procedures

Want to demonstrate how a medical procedure works? How about demonstrating how brain neurons fire? Even if you were to get up close with a video camera, you wouldn’t be able to see all the fine details that are going on. By using 3D animation, it’s possible to visually show what’s happening at a microscopic level.

3D Entertainment

The best kind of 3D animation is the good ol’ Pixar Animated video! These animations used to require budgets in the 10’s or 100’s of millions of dollars. Now, thanks to modern animation software and virtual animation teams, the cost to produce 3D animated videos for entertainment purposes is coming down. More organizations can now afford to create entertaining 3D animated videos to extend their brand.

Examples of 3D Animated Videos

3D Animated TV Ad Example

3D Product Render Video Example

Photorealistic 3D Animated Video Example

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.

Animated 3D Online Promo Video Example

How To Make a 3D Animated Video

1). Pick Your Animator

3D animated videos are complicated to produce. Unless you’re feeling particularly inspired to learn how to create them yourself, we recommend hiring an animation studio, freelancer, or us, Video Igniter Animation to create your animated video. Here are 9 things to look for when hiring an animator for your 3D video project.

2). Script

First, create a script for your video. This will become the skeleton for your entire animated video. When you create the first draft of your script, include notes about what visuals should correspond with each part of the script. The more detailed you can be with your visual notes, the easier it will be for the animators to figure out what you want them to show in each scene.

Deep Dive: Writing a script for a 3d animated explainer video? Check out our explainer video script writing guide.

3). Storyboard

Next, you’ll want to turn your script into a storyboard. A storyboard is like a blueprint for the design and animation teams so that they know: 1). what to create and 2). how things should move in each scene. You create the storyboard yourself or hire Video Igniter (or some other freelancer/studio) to turn your script into a storyboard for you.

Each page of the storyboard contains
1). A sentence from your script.

2). A rough mockup of the visuals you want to show in that scene.

3). A list of instructions for the animation team so they know how to animate the scene in sync with the voiceover.

4). A list of all the assets needed for that scene (background design, characters, items, sound effects, etc).

Want to save money on your production budget by creating your own storyboard? Download our storyboard creation creation guide and template.

4). VoiceOver

Now that your storyboard is approved, it’s time to hire some voiceover talent to record the narration or character’s voices for your animated video. You can hire voiceover talent from websites like Voicebunny, Fiverr and Voices123. We recommend hiring them to record a few sentences from your voiceover first to see if you like they way they bring energy to your specific script. If you love it, you can proceed to hire them for the full recording.

You can also record your own professional sounding voiceover for free at home or in your office without having to buy any expensive equipment.

5). 3D Concept Art

If you hire an animation studio to create your storyboard, the concept art may be created during the storyboard phase of production. Typically concept art starts as black and white sketches. Once the design is refined, color is added and polished until the client is happy with the 2D visualization of the art style.

From there, 3D artists will develop a grayscale 3D model of the assets needed for the animation. Here are some examples of 3D models for animated videos:

Image by PIRO from Pixabay

Image by Peggy and Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay

After the 3D model is approved, the artist will add color, textures and background scenery to complete the visual. The visual style gets refined through back and forth conversations between the animation studio and the client. Not all scenes get created during this phase of production – just enough to prove the concept and establish the visual (and sometimes the movement style) of a few key parts of the 3D video.

6). Animatic

The animatic is an advanced version of the storyboard. The animatic maps out the timing and framing of each shot of the video. This provides the animators a detailed reference to work from when designing and animating the video.

The example below shows how the original animatic for an episode of SpongeBob SquarePants evolved into the final animation.

7). Creating 3D Models and Adding Color

Next, it’s time to create all the 3D models for your 3D animation. First, the models get created without color like the concept art shown above. The animation studio will give you an opportunity to refine the models for all the characters, objects and scenes used in your video.

After that, the artists will apply color and texture layers to the 3D models. You will get another opportunity to review the models and request revisions to finalize their designs for production.

8). Animation

Finally, it’s time for animation! Your voiceovers have been recorded. All the 3D art has been created and colored. Now, the animators bring everything to life. Animation will take several weeks (or months) depending how long your 3D animated video is. When the first draft is finished rendering, you will get a chance to review the animation and request final revisions for your 3D animation.

9). SFX + Music

Don’t forget to add a soundtrack to your 3D animated video.

Sound FX and music may get added after you approve the final draft of the animation. This is done to avoid expensive rework. If you see your animation and want to make changes to the timing, it’s better to wait to add the music and sound effects once the timing of the animation has been locked in.

What does it cost to create a 3D explainer video?

Usually north of $10,000/60 seconds of animation. The visual style and level of detail you want for your animation determines your production budget. so they can generate a quote for your 3D animation. You can also write to us about your project to generate a custom quote for your 3D animated video.

How long does it take to make a 3D explainer video?

Depends on the complexity. Anticipate at least 8+ weeks for a 1-2 minute animation. We can produce your animation faster with a rush delivery upgrade.

3D Animated Video Production Resources

These popular articles are recommended for people interested in creating 3D animated videos:

How to create a 3D explainer video?

How to hire and work with a 3D animation studio?

What does 3D animation cost?

How to make 3D animation?

How to use Video Igniter’s 3D animation maker to create a 3D animation?

Hire Video Igniter To Make Your Video!

We produce custom animated videos for world-class brands like T-Mobile, Amazon Web Services and Snoop Dogg @ prices startups can afford. Check out our portfolio here.

Interested hearing about pricing? Get yourself a copy of our latest rate sheet.

Our team has made all kinds of 3D animations and we have the talent to create anything you can imagine. TV ads, educational tutorials, custom visuals for concerts and more!

+20 reasons companies love hiring Video Igniter to create animated videos.

Our team can create any 2D or 3D animated video you can imagine.

Get In Touch With Our Production Team

Want to create a 3D animated video? Use the following resources to get in touch with our production team:

Schedule a call with our production team.

Get a Quote.

Access our price sheet.

Fill out a questionnaire about your video to help us understand what you want to create.

What is Video Igniter Animation?

Instead of hiring an expensive brick and mortar 2D animation studio, Video Igniter Animation can help you produce original custom animated videos quickly!

…and for quite a bit less than what an old school animation studio would charge you!

Tips and FAQ for Hiring an Animator

May 9, 2022/in Video Igniter Animation Blog/by Video Igniter Animation

Whether you’re looking to hire an animator or an animation studio, there’s a laundry list of things you should look for when selecting a producer for your animation. Take a look at our checklist of recommendations to help your animated video project get off to a strong start.

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

Hire Video Igniter’s Animators to Create Videos Like These

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.

Top Platforms to Hire an Animator

When you’re ready to hire an animator, knowing where to look can make all the difference. There are several popular platforms where clients can find freelance animators or animation studios, each with its own strengths and considerations.

Video Igniter – For businesses seeking high-quality, custom animated videos with a streamlined production process, Video Igniter is a top choice. Our platform connects you directly with professional animators and manages the full animation workflow—from script to screen—so you don’t have to vet freelancers or juggle production details. If you want to hire an animator and get studio-quality results without the hassle, Video Igniter makes the process simple and effective.
Upwork – This popular freelance platform allows you to browse animator profiles, view portfolios, and post your job for animators to apply. It’s great for hiring freelance animators with flexible pricing, but finding a quality match can take time.
Fiverr – Ideal for small budgets, Fiverr lets you hire animators offering fixed-price services. However, while there are many talented animators, the quality can vary significantly, so it’s essential to vet portfolios carefully.
Behance – A portfolio site where many professional animators showcase their work. While you can’t hire directly through Behance, it’s a great place to find animators whose style matches your vision and then reach out directly.
Reddit (e.g., r/animationcareer) – Niche communities on Reddit can be helpful for finding emerging talent or getting honest feedback on where to hire an animator. Just be mindful that these forums are informal and require more manual vetting.

Each platform has its own strengths, but if you’re looking for an all-in-one solution to hire an animator without spending hours on research and project management, Video Igniter is one of the most efficient and reliable options available.

What to look for when hiring an animator?

Animation Style References

The most important thing you can do when looking to hire an animator is to check out examples of previous videos they’ve created. Does their work demonstrate their ability to make good design decisions? Are they able to produce an animation similar to the style you want for your video?

Project Availability

Check to see how many projects they take on at once and how your project will be prioritized relative to other projects. Will they have enough time to complete your video before your deadline?

Responsiveness

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

Storytelling Ability

When hiring an animator, you’ll want to make sure they’re a competent storyteller. There are a lot of amazing visual artists out there that haven’t connected the dots between the art of storytelling and the art of visual design. Make sure your animator of choice is able to make images that are appropriate for your story and enhances their presentation for the viewer.

Revisions Policy

Check to see what kind of revision policy your animator offers. If you aren’t paying your animator by the hour, make sure you check to see how many revisions are included in the flat rate you were quoted for the project.

Audio

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

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

https://videoigniter.com/9-things-to-look-for-when-hiring-an-animation-studio/

Essential Questions to Ask Before You Hire an Animator

Before you hire an animator, asking the right questions can save you time, money, and headaches. Whether you’re speaking to a freelancer or a studio, here are the key questions you should always ask:

Can I see your animation portfolio?
Reviewing past work helps ensure the animator’s style matches your vision and quality expectations.
Have you worked on similar projects before?
Industry-specific experience (e.g., explainer videos, educational animations, app demos) ensures they understand your needs.
What is your revision policy?
Clarify how many rounds of revisions are included and whether additional changes cost extra.
How do you handle the script and voiceover?
Some animators only work with a finished script. If you need help with scripting or voice talent, confirm it’s part of the service.
What is your timeline and availability?
Always ask when they can start, how long the animation will take, and whether they can meet your deadline.
How do you communicate during the project?
Clear communication is critical. Ask how often you’ll receive updates and which tools they’ll use (email, Slack, Trello, etc.).
Who owns the final animation?
Confirm you’ll receive full rights to the finished video once payment is complete.

Asking these questions upfront helps ensure a smoother production experience and improves your chances of hiring the right animator for your project.

How to choose a producer for your custom animated video?

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

– Pros and Cons of Different Animation Styles

– What’s the difference between hiring an animation studio, vs a freelance animator vs Video Igniter?

– Considering making the animated video yourself? Learn about DIY options.

– What is Video Igniter Animation?

Difference between hiring a freelance animator vs an animation studio?

Cost

Freelance animators are often (but not always) cheaper to work with than a full animation studio. It all depends on the style and length of the animation you’re hiring them to create. That, and the timeline…

Speed

… speaking of timelines, how quickly do you need your animated video? If you’re looking for something relatively simple, a freelancer can create what you’re looking for in a few hours, days or weeks. Studios are typically reserved for longer projects that require multiple people illustrating and designing so that the project can be completed in a reasonable amount of time.

Customer Service

Animation studios have more staff to handle client reviews and address questions so their animators and designers can continue working with minimal interruption. Freelancers make money when they’re animating so they’re more likely to request you send your revision notes in text form so they can easily digest them and make fixes in your animation. Some freelancers are willing to get on calls with clients to have more in depth discussions about how to create specific parts of your animation.

Artistic and technical ability

Freelance animators typically specialize in a few styles of animation and get really good at those. Animation studios are staffed with art directors that can develop new unique visual styles and coordinate a team around them to help execute on that unique artistic vision.

How long does it take a freelance animator to make an animation?

Custom animated videos take a lot of time and attention to produce. It takes about 2-4 weeks for a freelance animator to produce a 60 second animated video. To learn more about the animated video production process and how long each stage of production takes, check out this companion article:

https://videoigniter.com/understanding-the-animation-production-workflow-how-to-turn-your-idea-into-an-animated-video/

What does an animator cost per hour?

Animators earn between $10-$150+/hr depending on their experience and technical skillsets. For your average corporate/business/startup animated promo video, expect to spend $25-$50/hr for a quality 2D animator.

How much does a 2D animator cost per hour?

Usually $20-$60/hour.

How much is a 3D animator per hour?

$25-$75+/hour. 3D animators can get substantially more expensive. Highly technical, complicated and detailed animations can easily cost over $100/hour to produce.

How to pay an animator?

Payment Methods

Animators love receiving prompt payment for their hard work. But fast payments usually means they need to sacrifice 2.9%-5%+ of their earnings to cover transaction costs when they receive payment. Some animators may ask you to cover this expense. Others may be open to receiving payment via check, bank transfer or crypto to avoid losing their earnings to cover transaction costs.

Payment Terms

Most animators and animation studios use the same set of animated video payment terms: send an invoice for 50% of the estimated production cost to start production and the remainder of the project budget is due when the final draft is approved. The unwatermarked version of your animated video will be delivered after final payment is completed.

If you are hiring an animator for ongoing projects, have the animator log their hours and report them every two weeks for payment.

Flat rate vs Hourly

For shorter animated projects, it’s common in the animation world for freelancers and studios to quote a flat rate for a project and instead of charging by the hour. Animations longer than a few minutes will more than likely be billed by the hour because it’s too difficult to generate an accurate estimate for the number of labor hours required to create the video.

Extra Revisions

How many revisions does the animator allow for each phase of production? Most animators will cut you off at 1-2 revisions but some will be generous and allow a 3rd round of revisions for free. Whatever the situation is, make sure you two are in agreement about the production terms before you get started so that you don’t end up with unexpected costs at the end of production.

How much does it cost to hire an animator to make an animated video?

If you’re creating a 2D animated video, expect to spend between $1,000-$4,000 to cover the cost of animating a 60 second video. Illustration can add another $750-$2,000+ per minute of animation. 3D animated videos easily cost 2-3x as much because additional people are needed to create 3D models for characters, scenes and objects and make them look lifelike.

Tips to keep your animated video production budget low

Consider the following budget-saving tips to keep your animated video production cost down.

Create your script

You can save hundreds or thousands of dollars off your production budget by writing the script for your animated video. Freelance animators and animation studios are capable of helping you craft your script. However, as the originator of the idea for a video, the heart of the story is in your mind. You have the best chance of creating a first draft that will articulate the story you want to present. Don’t worry about making your script perfect. If you can provide the first draft of your script, your animation team can help you make it production-ready and you can still save some money on your production budget.

Here are a few resources to help you create a script for your animated video:

How To Write An Animated Video Script

7 Tips to Supercharge Your Video Script Writing

Examples Of Explainer Video Scripts + How To Write A Script

Get our free script writing template here.

Download our free template to help you write the script for your custom animated video.

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Download our free template to help you write the script for your animated video.

Create your storyboard

A storyboard is like a blueprint for an animated video. It tells the animators and illustrators what to create. By creating the storyboard for your custom animated video, you can save hundreds or thousands of dollars off your production budget. You don’t need any artistic ability to create a storyboard. Your job is to brainstorm visuals to correspond with each line of your script and then write simple instructions for the illustrators and animators so they understand what you want to show in each scene.

Examples of simple storyboards you can create for your animated video.

Free Download: Get our free storyboard creation template.

Deep Dive: Building a great storyboard for an animated explainer video.

Record the voiceover

You can try sourcing low cost voiceover talent from sites like Fiverr or VoiceBunny. English-speaking voiceover artists tend to charge $10-$199 for 1-2 minutes of recorded audio.

You can also record the voiceover yourself for free! Check out Episode 3 of The Video Igniter Show (at 1:31) to see how you can record the voiceover for your animated video for free without having to buy any expensive equipment or software.

Use stock assets

Using pre-created assets can help you keep your budget down because they usually cost less to buy or license than it would to create something comparable. Free (or low cost) icons, clip art, stock images, fonts, graphs and video clips are available on sites like Mixkit, TheNounProject, Google Font Library and Envato Elements.

Use free music

Soundtracks typically cost $10-$299 each. If you plan to promote your animation using paid media (TV and or Online), you may need to pay even more for the broadcast rights to use the soundtrack in paid promotional campaigns. Looking for free, legal music? Check out Incompetech and Facebook’s Sound Collection.

Why Businesses Choose to Hire an Animator

Whether you’re a startup, small business, educator, or enterprise marketing team, the decision to hire an animator can elevate your content and create a lasting impression on your audience. From explainer videos and app tutorials to brand intros and product demonstrations, animation offers a visually compelling way to simplify complex messages.

Many businesses choose to hire an animator because animated content is more engaging, memorable, and versatile compared to live-action videos. It’s also scalable: you can reuse and repurpose animated assets across social media, email marketing, websites, presentations, and more.

Hiring an animator ensures your video stands out from competitors and delivers a polished, professional finish that builds brand trust.

How to Hire an Animator for Your Specific Needs

When you’re ready to hire an animator, it’s essential to consider the type of animation that aligns with your goals. Some projects benefit from traditional 2D animation, while others require the depth and realism of 3D animation. Whiteboard animation, motion graphics, and character animation are also popular formats.

Before hiring an animator, identify your project’s goals:

Are you trying to explain a product or service?
Do you want to create branded entertainment or an educational series?
Are you looking for an attention-grabbing ad for social media?

Different types of animation require different skill sets. Make sure to hire an animator who specializes in the kind of animation you need. You can mention your vision, brand tone, audience, and goals when reaching out to animators or filling out creative briefs.

How to Hire an Animator Without Risk

Hiring an animator online can involve risks if you’re not careful. To minimize potential issues, follow these steps:

Review Their Portfolio
Always start by looking at the animator’s past work. Do they have experience creating the kind of video you want? Are their visuals polished and professionally produced?
Start with a Small Project or Test Sample
If you’re unsure, consider starting with a short 10-15 second animation. This gives you a preview of their communication, turnaround time, and quality.
Get Clear Terms in Writing
Before you hire an animator, define deliverables, deadlines, revision policies, and payment terms. Use contracts or detailed service agreements to avoid miscommunication.
Use a Secure Payment System
Whether you hire a freelance animator or an agency, use a platform that holds funds in escrow until milestones are delivered, such as Upwork or Fiverr.
Request Regular Updates
Ask for progress updates at key stages (e.g., script, storyboard, rough animation) so you can give feedback and keep the project on track.

Why You Should Hire an Animator Instead of DIY

There are many DIY animation tools available online, but hiring a professional animator delivers better results in most cases. Here’s why:

Custom Design: Animators can create unique visuals tailored to your brand instead of relying on templates.
Technical Expertise: Animation software has a learning curve. Professional animators know how to produce smooth, appealing motion and integrate audio correctly.
Time Savings: Animation is time-consuming. Hiring an animator lets you focus on your business while a pro handles the creative work.
Script & Storytelling Support: Many animators (especially through platforms like Video Igniter) can help you craft a compelling narrative that drives results.

If your goal is to create a video that builds trust, converts viewers, and looks polished across all devices, it’s smarter to hire an animator than try to do it all yourself.

How to Hire an Animator for a Long-Term Relationship

Many businesses benefit from developing an ongoing relationship with a trusted animator. When you find someone who understands your brand and communication style, they can quickly produce high-quality content for future campaigns.

To build a long-term working relationship when hiring an animator:

Provide clear feedback and appreciation for good work.
Be prompt with payments and responses.
Discuss retainer agreements or ongoing projects.
Introduce them to your broader marketing or creative team if you anticipate future projects.

Hiring an animator doesn’t have to be a one-time deal—it can be a strategic move that enhances your brand’s visual identity across all channels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring an Animator

Many businesses run into preventable issues when they hire an animator. Here are some of the most common mistakes—and how to avoid them:

1. Skipping the Portfolio Review
Never hire an animator without thoroughly reviewing their portfolio. Make sure their animation style aligns with your brand and your project goals.

2. Providing a Vague Project Brief
Unclear direction leads to more revisions and misalignment. Always provide a detailed brief including your script (if available), visual preferences, goals, and target audience.

3. Ignoring the Revision Policy
Not all animators include unlimited revisions. Understand how many changes are allowed, what constitutes a revision, and whether changes after final delivery are permitted.

4. Hiring Based Solely on Price
While budget matters, choosing the cheapest option often results in lower quality. Look for value, not just price, when hiring an animator.

5. Overlooking Communication Skills
Great animation requires collaboration. If your animator is slow to respond or unclear in their communication, your project could suffer.

6. Rushing the Timeline
Animation is a craft that takes time. While rush delivery animation is possible, unrealistic deadlines can lead to rushed work or missed milestones. Plan ahead and allow for reasonable production time.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you hire an animator who delivers professional, impactful results—whether you’re producing a 2D explainer, product demo, or animated series.

How to get the most out of your animated video?

Animated videos aren’t cheap to produce. If you’re hiring someone to make one, here are some resources to help ensure your project goes as smooth as possible. Is your animated video being created to help serve a business objective or initiative? These resources will also help you improve the marketing impact of your animation.

– 7 Tips to help you write a great script for your animated video.

– Pick the right visual style for your animated video.

– 6 Tips To Increase Viewer Engagement for your animated video.

– Review the Do’s and Don’ts of Promotional Explainer Videos.

– 7 Tips For Using and Improving Your Businesses’s Video.

– Learn how to interpret your video’s viewer stats to see if it needs improvement.

– A/B Test variations of your animated video to improve its conversion rate.

Final Thoughts: Why Hiring an Animator Is a Smart Investment

The decision to hire an animator isn’t just about creating a cool video—it’s about creating a communication asset that drives engagement, builds authority, and tells your story in a memorable way.

With so many platforms and pricing tiers available, it’s easier than ever to hire an animator who fits your style, budget, and timeline. Whether you choose Video Igniter, a freelance platform, or a boutique animation studio, taking time to find the right animator will pay off in the form of better video performance and stronger brand impact.

Ready to hire an animator? Contact Video Igniter today to get started with your next animation project.

Hire Video Igniter to create your animation

World class design talent at prices small businesses can afford.

We can make any kind of 2D or 3D animated video you can imagine.

+20 reasons companies love hiring us to create animated videos.

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.

Animation Video Reel

Animator Success Stories & Testimonials

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

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

Get in touch to hire an animator

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video.

Get a quote for your animated video.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

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

Create your Video Igniter account, fill out a creative brief, and then we’ll make an animated video for you.

What is Video Igniter Animation?

Resources For Hiring An Animator

We recommend these popular articles if you’re still looking for information about hiring animators:

Learn about animated video production.

+160 Free Resources To Help You Create Animated Videos

Learn The Animation Production Workflow To Make Animated Videos

January 28, 2022/in Video Igniter Animation Blog/by Video Igniter Animation

So, you want to make an animated video, but you have no clue what the animation production workflow is like. This article will give you a breakdown of what the process of making an animated video is like so that you have an idea of what all the animation phases are and how they relate to each other. This animation step by step guide to getting your idea turned into a custom animated video covers everything from Pre-Production to Production and all the way through Post-Production.

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

Steps for the 2D animation production workflow:

Pre-Production:

1). What do you want to make?

2). Identifying an animator or studio

3). Agree on price & production terms

4). Start Production With a Production Brief

Production:

5). Script

6). Storyboard

7). Voiceover

8). Music

9). Design

10). Animation + Polish / SFX

Post-Production:

11). Follow through / using your video / AB Testing

3D Animation:

12). Animatic (for 3D animation + VO may happen after)

Animation Pre-Production Workflow:

1). What do you want to make?

The first stage in animation is to figure out what kind of animated video you want to make. Is this going to be a short piece? Or a full on animated movie? What do you want people to feel, experience and do after they watch your video? These are the kinds of things you want to think about first so that you know what kind of animation freelancer or studio would be best suited to produce your animated video.

Estimated time: hours, days or weeks

2). Identifying an animator or studio

After you’ve thought about what it is you’re actually looking for, take some time to shop around for animation freelancers or animation studios that have experience producing the kind of animation you are looking for. Reach out to them to schedule a call to discuss their creative process, animation production workflow, pricing, and request portfolio samples to ensure they can produce content similar to what you are looking for.

Deep Dive: How to hire a 2D animation company.

Estimated time: Days to weeks

3). Agree on price & production terms

Quality animated videos cost $1000-$25,000+ per minute for 2D animated videos and $5,000-$50,000+ for 3D animated videos. Before you move forward with any animation steps, make sure you and your animators are on the same page in terms of what the total estimated budget will be and whether or not it will cost extra if you request more than a round or two of edits. Most animators and studios require 25-50% of the budget to be paid up front. Check with them to see if there are any other production terms you should be aware of – including their policy on the # of revisions you get.

Estimated time: Hours or days.

Animation Production Workflow:

4). Start Production With A Production Brief

The next step of the animation production process is to document all your thoughts and ideas to share with the animation team so that they have as much information as possible when they create your script, storyboard and the custom art for your video. Include notes about your ideas for the script, the visuals and what kinds of people will be watching your video.

Estimated time: Hours or days

5). Script

The script is the foundation for the rest of the animated video production workflow. It determines the overall length (and cost) of your video and what visuals will need to be created and animated in sync with the voiceover acting or narration. For reference, a 150 word script equals about one minute of video.

Estimated time: Days to weeks

Writing the script for an animated video.

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

6). Storyboard

The storyboard provides blueprints for the design and animation team so that they know what to create during the animation process. Each slide of the storyboard should have a sentence from your script, a rough sketch or mockup of what you want to show in the scene, a list of the assets (audio and visual) that need to be created for this scene, and some bullet points to describe the order of operations of the animation/motion that happens on screen.

Estimated time: Days to weeks

7). VoiceOver

To get a great voiceover for your video, include notes with your script that tell the voiceover artist what kind of energy you want them to use, how to pronounce difficult words and what sort of pacing they should use. Send your script to multiple voiceover artists and have them record a few sentences so that you can hear and feel how impactful their delivery will be. Once you’ve narrowed it down to your favorite voiceover artist, have them record the full voiceover and review it to see if it needs any slight tweaks. Before you approve the final draft of your voiceover, make sure you are paying for the proper commercial rights (if applicable) to use your voiceover.

Estimated time: Several days to a week.

8). Music

One of the steps in creating an animation that you don’t want to outlook is carefully selecting the right soundtrack. Music influences the perception of every scene in your video. It sets the mood and enhances viewer perception of your content. Take some time to listen to many different options before making your decision. Sometimes you’ll need to wait until the first draft of your video is ready to get a sense of how the music actually enhances or detracts from your animated video. Other times, studios may select a handful of tracks for you to choose from and let you pick your favorite option. Either way, make sure that the music you use is properly licensed for the places you plan to show your video. Oftentimes, music requires a commercial license if you plan to use the music in a video for paid ads or on your website.

Estimated time: Days

9). Design

Reviewing art is one of the most exciting phases of the animated video production process. Typically, the animation and design team you work with will create multiple pieces of concept art for you to review. You should pick out your favorites and let the designers know what you like best about them – and what details you may want to refine further. After the designer has perfected one scene in the style of your choosing, they will create the rest of the art for your video and then give you an opportunity to review the art and ask for edits. Ensure you are happy with the style of your art before you move forward with the next animation step in order to avoid extra production costs.

Estimated time: 1-2 weeks for a 1-2 minute long 2D animated video

10). Animation + Polish / Sound Effects

Now that all the prep work is done, the animators are finally at the part of the animation production workflow where they start applying motion to the custom designed art and sync it to the voiceover and music. Typically, animation studios will allow you to review the first draft and request 1-2 rounds of simple edits while they add sound effects and additional visual touch ups.

Estimated time: 1-2 weeks for 1 minute of 2D animation, 2-4 weeks for frame-by-frame animation, and 2-4+ weeks for 3D animation.

Animation Post-Production Workflow:

11). Follow Through & Using Your Video

Now that you’ve made it through all the steps of creating an animated video, it’s time to start showing it to people. If you are using your video for commercial or marketing purposes, we recommend creating alternate intros and ending CTAs (call to action) so that you can A/B test different variations improve the overall conversion rate of your animated video.

Estimated time: weeks to months

Bonus Stage For 3D Animation:

12). Animatic (for 3D animation)

The 3D animation production workflow usually has an extra step called an animatic – it’s like an ultra rough draft of your animated video composed of static images that are played in sync with the existing voiceover. The purpose of this is to ensure the animation will have the right timing before animators spend time animating. This is particularly useful to gauge the speed for comedic timing and emotional draw.

Estimated Time: days to weeks

Tips for Successful Collaboration

Animation production is a collaborative process that requires input from multiple stakeholders, including you (the client), creative directors, animators, voice talent, and more. To ensure your project stays on track and meets expectations, here are a few tips for a successful collaboration:

Clear Communication: Set the foundation for a smooth workflow by ensuring everyone understands the project’s vision and objectives from the start. Create a shared project brief that outlines the goals, tone, style, and key deliverables to align all parties involved.
Feedback Loops: During the review stages, provide constructive feedback and be as specific as possible. This will help avoid misunderstandings or unnecessary revisions later in the process. Also, make sure feedback comes from the right stakeholders to prevent conflicting directions.
Realistic Timelines: Establish timelines early in the process and agree on deadlines for each phase of production. Consider the time needed for revisions and approvals. Proactive planning ensures that everyone’s expectations around time and scope are clear.

Common Pitfalls in Animation Production

While animation production is an exciting and creative process, there are several common challenges that can arise. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for and how to avoid them:

Scope Creep: As the project evolves, it’s easy for the scope to expand, whether due to new ideas, additional features, or changes in direction. To prevent this, make sure to clearly define the scope at the beginning and agree on the parameters for revisions. If changes need to be made, discuss how they may impact timeframes and budgets.
Miscommunication: Misunderstanding between the team and the client about project goals or expectations can derail progress. To avoid this, keep communication open and regular. It’s helpful to summarize meetings with action points or next steps in writing, so nothing gets lost in translation.
Unrealistic Timelines: Underestimating how long a project will take can lead to stress and subpar results. Ensure that timelines account for each stage of the process, from ideation and scripting to animation and final revisions. Be realistic about how much time will be required to deliver a polished, high-quality product.

Animation Production Cost Breakdown

Animation production costs can vary based on several factors. Here’s a general breakdown of what might influence pricing:

Style of Animation: 2D animation is generally more affordable than 3D animation. However, 2D animation can be complex depending on the level of detail, so it’s important to define your needs early on. Motion graphics tend to be more cost-effective compared to full character animation.
Video Length: Longer videos require more time for both animation and revisions, so they tend to cost more. Short, punchy videos (30-60 seconds) are more affordable, but for complex storytelling, longer formats may be necessary.
Level of Detail: Highly detailed visuals, intricate motion designs, or 3D elements will increase production time and cost. If you need a high-end, hyper-realistic design, be prepared for a higher budget.
Number of Revisions: The more rounds of revisions, the higher the cost. Try to consolidate feedback to minimize revisions and streamline the process. Some animators charge a flat rate for a set number of revisions, while others may charge hourly rates for extra work. You can read about Video Igniter’s unlimited revisions policy here.

Post-Production Tips

Once your animation is complete, it’s time for the finishing touches. Here are a few key post-production tips to elevate your animation:

Editing: Review the animation for pacing and flow. The timing of keyframes, transitions, and effects needs to align with the video’s message. Consider tightening any unnecessary moments for maximum impact.
Sound Design: Audio plays a critical role in animation. Music, sound effects, and voiceovers should complement the visuals and help communicate the tone of the piece. Use royalty-free music or hire a composer to ensure you have the rights to the music.
Color Grading: Enhance the animation’s visual appeal with color grading. This process can make the colors more vibrant or subtle, depending on the tone you’re aiming for. It also ensures that your animation looks polished across different viewing devices.
Exporting for Platforms: If the animation is being shared on different platforms (social media, website, etc.), be sure to export the video in various formats and sizes to ensure it plays smoothly. For instance, a square version of the video might work best for Instagram, while a landscape format is ideal for YouTube.

Animation Production Workflow Resources

Now that you understand what the animation production workflow is like, here are some additional resources to help you get your idea turned into a custom animation:

What are the animated video payment terms for my project?
How to make video animations
How long does it take to animate a 1 minute video?
How much does animation cost?

What is Video Igniter Animation?

If you have any questions about making an animated video or the animation production workflow, with a member of Video Igniter’s production team. Check out our animated video portfolio to see our latest and greatest creations.

Interested in learning about pricing for your explainer video project? Request access to our pricing page here.

Animated Video Demo Reel

What is a storyboard? And why do you need one?

January 7, 2022/in Video Igniter Animation Blog/by Video Igniter Animation

What is a storyboard? If you want to make an animated video, creating a storyboard is the second step of the animated video production process – right after creating your script. Without a storyboard, your whole project might fall apart.

What is a storyboard?

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

What is a story board?

So… what is a storyboard? According to dictionary.com, it’s:

“…a panel or panels on which a sequence of sketches depict the significant changes of action and scene in a planned film, as for a movie, television show, or advertisement.”

To put it another way, a storyboard is a blueprint that includes written instructions and visual mockups that explain what is going to happen for each scene of an animated or live action video. It helps keep the production information organized so that the production team knows what they are creating. You can create this document yourself using an application like PowerPoint or Keynote – or, if you don’t want to create the storyboard yourself, animation studios and freelancers are usually willing to help you create a storyboard for your animated video before they move forward with production.

Creating a storyboard for an animated video.

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

The purpose of a storyboard is…

It is important to create a storyboard that documents in simple terms: what art do you want the designers to create and how do you want the animators to apply motion to the art?

A storyboard is a working document that explains what to create, how to sync the voice over to the animation, and what animated sequences need to be created. By having all of this information organized together, animators and designers have a clear understanding of what they need to design and how they need to create it so that it works within the animation, without having to constantly ask the producer, “what do we create here?”

If there is ambiguity in your storyboard, illustrators or animators may create the wrong thing. Or, it could delay production while the project manager gets clarification from the client about what they intend to show in a particular scene. It’s best to over explain what you want to show using simple language. If needed, include reference images within your storyboard to help the illustrators and animators better understand the intended vision.

Storyboard Format

So, what does a storyboard include? Each slide of a storyboard is comprised of four parts:

1). Script

Each slide of the storyboard contains one sentence or a part of a sentence that will be heard by the viewer while the current visuals are displayed on screen.

Want to improve your script? Check out this article for tips to help you improve your video script writing.

2). Visual Mockup

This is a rough sketch or a mockup of whatever you want to show during this part of the script. You can create the visual mockup for your storyboard by sketching it on paper, taking a photo with your smartphone and inserting it into your storyboard. You can also use free images and icons you find online to mock up all the scenes for your animated video.

3). Directions

A bullet point list of instructions that explain what motions happen on screen in what order. Simple, clear instructions are best and should be documented in chronological order so that the animator reads it like, “first I do this, then this happens, then this.”

4). Asset List

A list of all the audio and visual assets that need to be created for this scene (i.e. red Android phone, dial tone sound effects, etc).

Deep Dive: Check out this article for additional tips to help you build a great storyboard for an explainer video.

Storyboard Diagram

The diagram below shows examples of what kinds of information should be included on each slide of your storyboard.

Animated Video Storyboard Diagram

Next Steps: Want to learn what happens after you make your storyboard? Check out this article to learn how we use your storyboard to create an animated video.

How to build a storyboard

Check out this article for detailed instructions on how to create your own storyboard.

Download Our Free Storyboard Template

When you hire Video Igniter to make video animations, you can save hundreds or thousands of dollars off your animated video production budget if you create the storyboard yourself. You don’t need any artistic ability to create one. All you need to be able to do is brainstorm ideas for the visuals to correspond with each part of your script and then create simple instructions for the illustrators and animators so they understand what you want them to create. Download our free storyboard PDF template here.

What does a storyboard look like for an animated video?

Below are some examples to show you what you scene mockups may look like for your video project. Your sketches/mockups don’t need to look professional, they are just there to provide simple visual context in the instructions. The art team is responsible for taking in all your information and turning it into professional looking custom art for your animated video.

Hand Drawn Example:

Example of what a rough sketched storyboard looks like.

Example of what a hand drawn storyboard looks like.

Clip Art / Icon-Based Example:

Example of what an animated video storyboard looks like when created using clip art and stock images to mock up the scene.

Example of what an animated video storyboard looks like when you use clip art and stock images to mock up the scenes.

Either format is acceptable

Use free clip art, stock assets, icons and sketches to mock up the visuals for your animated video.

What does the final art look like?

Don’t worry about making your storyboard mockups look professional. It’s our job to turn your mockups into professional looking art. Just focus on providing clear instructions so the illustrators and animators understand what you want them to create.

Your mockup turned into professional animated art.

Example of what a storyboard looks like and the animation that was created from it

Click here to download a PDF example of a full storyboard. Below, you can see the animated video that was created from the storyboard. We recommend skimming through both to get an understanding of how much detail you need to include in your storyboard so that the designers and animators know what to create.

Storyboard Animation Example

What Are Some Other Storyboard Formats?

The storyboard format described above is the ideal format because it keeps the information organized and provides information in a written and visual format. This facilitates a more streamlined design and animation process because the designers and animators have a better idea of what they are supposed to create. That being said, there are other, easier ways to create a document similar to a storyboard that can still do a decent job of explaining your ideas to the production team.

Example 1: Written Storyboard

A written storyboard includes no visuals and relies entirely on visual description. Start by writing a sentence of the script. Then put the next line in [brackets like this] when you describe what is supposed to be happening visually on screen during this part of the script.

Example Of A Written Storyboard For An Animated Explainer Video

Example 2: Written Storyboard V2

Sometimes people will organize their written storyboard into a table to look like this:

Example of a written storyboard formatted into a table

Example 3: Sketched Storyboard

Sometimes people create storyboards by simply sketching out a scene, connecting it with the corresponding part of the script and including a little blurb about the motion design for that scene. In this case, the design and animation teams are heavily relying on detailed sketches that clearly show the details of the scene and how the visuals change from scene to scene. This type of storyboard is only recommended if the artist sketching out the scenes is capable of making sketches that are high quality.

What does a hand sketched storyboard look like?

Example of a hand drawn storyboard for an explainer video.

Benefits Of Using Storyboards

Written storyboards can be used to speed up the production process and lower production costs for simple animations. For more complex projects, they’re a requirement because they will simplify production and lower production costs in the long run once we’ve documented all of the visual details that need to be produced by the animators.

Here are the top 3 benefits of creating storyboards for your animated video project:

1). Efficient Planning: Storyboards enable teams to play around and experiment with changes in the storyline before moving the video into production. They also enable production teams to plan camera angles and figure out how scenes will transition from one scene to the next.

2). Visualize The Narrative: Storyboards are a visual representation of the key scenes in your video’s storyline. By documenting each individual scene, we can ensure each scene is will be designed to properly fit into the story.

3). Enhanced Collaboration: Creating a storyboard makes it easier for our team to communicate with your team about what will be shown every scene. It’s the easiest way to ensure we share the same vision for the video and have group consensus locked in before the illustrators and animators get to work. Ultimately, this helps you avoid paying extra for scenes that weren’t designed properly the first time.

Tools To Help You Create A Storyboard

These digital tools come in handy to speed up the creation of your storyboard:

Slides/Keynote/Powerpoint: These popular presentation applications are a fantastic free option you can use to create your storyboard. Download our storyboard template and paste it into your favorite presentation application.

Boords: This paid service makes it easy for you to create and organize your storyboard. Upload images to the service and then type in the script and your notes for the motion design in each scene. Boords also makes it easy for your team to add comments on each slide so we can keep track of revision requests and changes to the storyboard.

AI: If you aren’t sure what kind of visual should go along with part of your script, use AI to suggest ideas.

Taking things a step further, if you don’t have the ability to draw rough sketches for each scene, you can also use AI to generate sketches or mockups of each scene to help visualize what each scene should look like.

Canva: Canva has their own library of storyboard templates you can use to plan and design the storyboard for your next animated video project.

Deep Dive: Check out this companion article for more tips to help you create a storyboard: How To Create a Storyboard For an Animated Video.

Common Storyboarding Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Creating an effective storyboard is a crucial step in producing a successful animated video. However, even experienced artists and animators can fall into common pitfalls that can lead to confusion, inefficiencies, or a lackluster final product. Below, we’ll explore some of the most frequent storyboarding mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Overcomplicating the Frames

One of the biggest mistakes in storyboarding is adding excessive detail to each frame. While it’s tempting to create highly intricate sketches, the primary purpose of a storyboard is to communicate the flow of the video, not to showcase fully rendered illustrations. Overly detailed frames can clutter the visual message and slow down the production process.

How to Avoid It: Keep your sketches simple and focused on key elements, such as character placement, primary actions, and scene composition. Stick to clear, readable compositions that help the team understand the shot without unnecessary distractions.

2. Lack of Continuity

Inconsistent character positioning, improper framing, and disjointed transitions can disrupt the flow of a storyboard. When continuity mistakes go unnoticed, they can lead to confusion during animation and require costly revisions later in production.

How to Avoid It: Review each frame carefully to ensure consistency in character positioning, proportions, and background elements. Use reference guides for character placement and maintain a logical flow between scenes. Consider flipping back and forth between frames to check for continuity errors.

3. Ignoring Camera Movement

Storyboards should clearly communicate how the camera moves throughout a scene. Even though animated videos are made without camera’s, it’s still important to think through every way the viewer will see things moving through each scene. Failing to indicate pans, zooms, tilts, or tracking shots can lead to misinterpretations, resulting in static or awkwardly framed animations.

How to Avoid It: Use arrows and notes to indicate camera movements like zooming in, panning across a scene, or shifting focus. If necessary, create an animatic—a rough animated version of the storyboard—to visualize how the camera movements will enhance the storytelling.

4. Skipping the Planning Phase

Jumping straight into storyboarding without a well-thought-out concept can lead to disorganized scenes, unclear storytelling, and wasted effort. Without proper planning, you may find yourself revising large portions of the storyboard later, delaying the entire project.

How to Avoid It: Before sketching, outline the key beats of your story, define character actions, and establish the overall tone. Having a script or shot list in place can help guide the storyboarding process and reduce unnecessary revisions.

5. Not Considering the Audience

A storyboard is more than just a visual plan—it’s a tool for communicating a story effectively to a specific audience. If the visual style, pacing, or framing doesn’t align with the target viewers’ expectations, the final animation may miss the mark.

How to Avoid It: Keep your audience in mind when designing your storyboard. Consider factors like age group, cultural background, and viewing preferences. For example, if the video is meant for young children, use bright, clear visuals with exaggerated expressions and actions to maintain engagement.

What is Video Igniter?

Video Igniter provides animated video production services online. We’ve modernized the experience of creating an animated video to help you create custom content fast. Our production process also helps you save money on your production costs. We do 99% of the work for you. All you need to do is:

1). Tell us what you want us to create

2). Review the assets we create for your video (script, storyboard, voiceover, soundtrack, art and animation).

If you’re looking for a website to create an animated video online, Video Igniter’s custom animated video production service enables you to work with our animation team to create any kind of animated video you can imagine!

Our talented staff collaborates behind the scenes to create custom 2D and 3D animated videos so you don’t have to figure out if you have the right video animator for the job. We handle all the technical and creative aspects of production – including helping you develop your script and storyboard (if you haven’t already created them yourself!)

Interested in learning more about the production process? Check out our walkthrough guide: “How To Make A Video Animation.”

Outsource Your Storyboard Creation & Animation to Video Igniter

– +20 reasons companies love outsourcing their animation projects to Video Igniter.

– You can use Video Igniter to outsource the production of any kind of 2D or 3D animated video you can imagine.

– Check out our portfolio!

– World class design talent at prices small businesses can afford.

Animation Demo Reel

Success Stories & Testimonials

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

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

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

Get in touch

Schedule a call to discuss creating a storyboard and an animated video for your company.

Get a quote for your animated video.

Check out our animated video portfolio.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

Create your Video Igniter account, fill out a creative brief, and then we’ll make your animated video for you.

How To Create A Storyboard For An Animated Video?

January 7, 2022/in Video Igniter Animation Blog/by Video Igniter Animation

If you hire a video animator or an animation studio to create an explainer video, they will need to have a storyboard with your script in order to know what details to produce in your animation. Often times, animators and studios can help you take your idea or your script and turn it into a storyboard – but if you want to take on that part of creating an animated video, this article will explain how to create a storyboard for an animated video, even if you have no artistic abilities.

Learn how to create a storyboard.

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

What is a storyboard?

But first, what is a storyboard? A storyboard is a document that includes text and visuals to explain two things:

1). What art do the designers need to create?

2). How should the animators make the custom designed art move around?

How do you create a storyboard for an animated video?

Each page of a storyboard has four parts and you should include all of them when you make the storyboard for your animated video:

1). Script

2). Sketch/Mockup

3). Direction

4). Asset List

Diagram Explaining How To Create A Storyboard For An Animated Video

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

1). Script

When you first start making the storyboard for your animation, begin by taking each sentence from your script and put one sentence on each page of your storyboard. It’s possible that when you create your storyboard, you may find that it makes sense to break up a sentence over multiple slides because there’s a lot of motion and design information to explain to the animators. Alternatively if a sentence needs multiple slides to explain all the motion design, have the full sentence on each page and highlight the active part of the sentence by making that part of the sentence bold.

How To Split A Sentence Into Multiple Slides For Your Animated Explainer Video's Storyboard

If a scene has a lot of detail, split the sentence into multiple slides.

2). Sketch/Mockup

Each slide of your storyboard should contain a mockup of the scene that is going to be designed for each sentence of the script. Your sketch or mockup doesn’t have to look professional – it just has to be adequate enough to communicate your idea. It’s our job to take your ideas and turn it into something real. Stick figure sketches are perfectly fine – a simple sketch on paper goes a long way – just take a photo of it and include it on the appropriate page of your storyboard.

Too timid to try sketching out your ideas? Use freely available images and icons online to create a rough mockup of the scene you want us to design.

Examples Of Storyboards For Animated Videos That Were Created Using Sketches Or Icons And Clipart.

3). Direction

This is the most important part of creating a storyboard – use simple language to clearly explain what sort of motion design you want to happen during this part of the script. The more you can break down your ideas, the easier it will be for the animators to understand what they are going to animate. Simple language with bullet points is the best way to sequentially document the order of operations that needs to happen in a scene.

If you want an action to happen at a specific moment during the voiceover, it helps to say something like, “when the voiceover says, ‘____,’ do this _______.”

Storyboard Instructions For An Animated Video

Use the upper right corner of the storyboard to explain to the animator what motion happens in the scene.

4). Asset list

In the bottom right corner of the storyboard, include a list of all the assets that are needed for that scene. Below are examples of some of the kinds of assets you should include in your list:

Scene Examples: blue bedroom, snowy mountain scene, busy shopping mall.

Characters Examples: old fireman in uniform with a white beard, a zebra with white and blue stripes.

Object Examples: digital alarm clock, an orange android phone.

Stock Footage Examples: video of a bumblebee, picture of the inside of a plant cell.

Audio Examples: cash register noise, glass shatter SFX.

5). Extra notes (Screenshots & Examples)

While you create your storyboard, you may find that it’s helpful to include additional information to explain the ideas in your storyboard. Feel free to insert additional slides that include extra descriptive or visual information for the animators and designers to reference when creating your video.

For example – maybe there are a few different styles of desks that you would like to see in a scene. You could include one in the mockup in a slide for your storyboard, and then on the slide after that, include 3 photos of other styles of desks the designers could use as a visual reference for the scene. Or, perhaps you want a character to walk a specific way in a scene and you found a YouTube video of a guy that perfectly demonstrates the type of motion you want to see conveyed in your animation – including a link to the video for the animators to watch will be very helpful for them.

Deep Dive: Want to learn more about the animated video production process? Check out this companion article to learn “How To Create An Animated Video.”

Download Our Free Storyboard Template

We have a storyboard template that you can use to create your storyboard in PowerPoint, Pages, or Slides. Click here to download our free storyboard templates and get our quick storyboard DIY guide too.

Animated Video Storyboard Examples

Interested in checking out some storyboards that were created for real animated video projects? Take a look at our explainer video storyboard examples.

Want Help Creating Your Storyboard?

Creating a storyboard is a fun creative process that turns your words into a visual story. That being said, we know it can be a challenging creative exercise and it’s not for everyone. If you want someone to create the storyboard for your animated video, just let us know and we’ll take care of it for you!

Tools To Help You Create Your Storyboard

We love an old fashioned hand-drawn storyboard – but there’s a growing number of digital tools out there that speed up the storyboard creation process. Let’s explore a few options to help you speed up and streamline the storyboard creation process.

Digital Storyboard Apps

Boords is one of our favorite apps we use to create and share storyboards with our clients. After you upload your storyboard images to Boords, the app provides spaces for you to type in the script and the direction for the motion design which keeps your storyboard organized and nicely formatted.

Boords also makes it easy for clients to add their comments directly on each slide of the storyboard so we know what parts to update and revise.

Digital Sketching Devices

The old way of making a storyboard was to hand draw each scene, take a photo of it, transfer it to your computer and then format the image to fit within your storyboard. Now a days, it’s becoming more common to use an iPad or a Remarkable tablet to sketch each scene and then digitally add the image into your storyboard. This saves on time and makes it easier to update the sketches based on client feedback.

how to make a storyboard remarkable-tablet

Source: Remarkable.com

AI Generated Storyboard Scenes

We’re just starting to see AI’s that are created for the specific purpose of creating storyboards. They tend to fall into two categories:

1). AI’s that suggest content for your storyboard

These AIs can read a script and take in information about your target audience and then suggest ideas for what to show for each part of your script. This is a great way to get ideas for scenes that are difficult to visualize.

2). AI’s that create sketches for your storyboard

Other AIs are capable of taking your script and generating sketches for each scene in your storyboard. Customization abilities are limited but you can ask the AI to keep regenerating new suggestions until it comes up with something that’s close enough.

What Is An Animatic?

Some animated video projects require the creation of an animatic in addition to the storyboard. An animatic is halfway between a storyboard and the final animation. Storyboard sketches are synced up with the timing of your voiceover to create a very rough version of your video. Often times, additional images are sketched for inclusion in the animatic.

The purpose of the animatic is to create a rough timing of the animation so that everyone involved with the project can see how the timing / pacing of the visuals lines up with the pace of the voiceover. It’s helpful for identifying ‘dead’ portions of the video where very little motion is happening. It’s also useful for planning and choreographing detailed and nuanced parts of your animation to ensure the timing is right. If your animation is very detailed, it’s useful to create an animatic first to ensure your video is created properly the first time. Animatics are also useful for testing the comedic timing of jokes.

Animatics are frequently created for 3D animation projects and hand drawn animations. Standard 2D computer animation projects usually don’t require the creation of an animatic.

Here’s an example of an animatic. Below that is the video that was created from the animatic.

Still have questions about how to create a storyboard for an animated video?

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

What is Video Igniter Animation?

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

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

Want to know more about the production process? Learn how to make a video animation.

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 Animation Studio 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 to help you make video animations, 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

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

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

Need help creating your storyboard? 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.

How To Write An Animated Video Script For An Explainer Video

October 20, 2021/in Video Igniter Animation Blog/by Video Igniter Animation

This explainer video guide will teach you how to write an animated video script that will help you increase sales and grow your business.

When you start making an animated explainer video, it is important to take the time to write a strong script for your video because it is the framework from which your animated video will be created. Everything from the voiceover to the visual style will be informed by the decisions that are made during the script writing process. This explainer video guide will teach you Video Igniter’s tips, tricks and best practices for writing a script that will help deliver results for your sales and marketing.

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

Before you start writing your animated video script…

Before you even begin formulating the concept for your video script, here are a few points we ask our clients to think through (and preferably write down!):

1). What is the goal for this video?
2). Who is this video for?
3). What is the core message you want to convey? Or what is the process to get to success?
4). Why should people care?

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

1). What is the goal for this video?

Start by being concrete about what action you want people to take when they’ve finished watching your video. Do you want them to sign up for a free account? Should they contact you for more information? Or download your app? Whatever that thing is you want your audience to do to move one step down the funnel towards a relationship with your company, be concrete about what that goal is and then use the whole video to illustrate why it’s in the best interest of your target audience to do that thing.

2). Who is this video for?

Being specific about who your target audience is very helpful because it informs what you say and how you should say it. If everyone is your target audience, you’re going to have a more challenging time creating a compelling message that applies to everyone. On the other hand, the more you can connect with the way your target audience talks, the more effective your video will be.

We’ve created hundreds of animated explainer videos for tech companies and we always want to know whether or not we’re creating a video for a ‘technical’ audience. If it is a technical audience, we’ll spend more time illustrating the process and the details for how a new system works. If the audience for that tech product/service is going to be purchased by someone who is less technologically savvy, then we’ll ease off the technical mumbo-jumbo and focus more on the value and benefits the service will bring about if it gets implemented.

Knowing who your specific audience is enables you to make informed decisions during the writing process because you’re able to speak directly to what resonates with them. If your company sells in multiple industries, you should consider creating different versions of your explainer video that specifically illustrate the ways you serve the problems of each industry.

3). What is the core message that should be conveyed in your animated video’s script?

It sounds obvious that you should know what you want to say in your video – after all, it is about your company/product/service. But if you don’t take the time to consider what’s really important to say in your video, there’s going to be a temptation to want to cram in as many details as possible – and that is going to clutter and distract from the parts of your message that are important.

Before you start writing your script, be specific about what key talking points need to be conveyed in the video so that you can prioritize those messages when drafting your script. In fact, we recommend you actually write them down and not keep them in your head so that you can see what key details you actually committed to before you started writing your video script.

How many words are in a 60 second script? The target is 150 words for a video that’s 1 minute long (meaning every word counts!) Focus the story of your script around these main points (2-3 are good for a 1 minute video). Anything that doesn’t support the narrative around these main talking points should be cut out so that you don’t detract from the main purpose of the video.

Aim for 125-150 when writing the script for your 60-second video.

Aim for 125-150 when writing the script for a 60-second video.

4). Why should people care?

So far, it’s all been about me in this creative exercise: how do I benefit. As you go through the script writing process, everything must be written from the perspective of your target audience – speak directly to what matters to them. You can make a good video that talks about how awesome you are, but your video will be more effective if you focus on your audience’s problems and how you can solve them to make their lives better.

Animated Video Script Structure

Now that you’ve documented the key details, here is how you should structure and organize your explainer video outline:

1). What is the problem
2). What is the solution
3). How does it help / what is the process to get success?
4). What should interested people do next?

Script Writing Time

When you’re ready to write your explainer video script, don’t worry about getting it right the first time. Just follow this video script template, get your ideas on paper and come back later to refine them and make them more cohesive.

1). Introduce the problem

What is a real problem or pain point that your target audience experiences and how can you creatively illustrate that idea in a way that uniquely resonates with them? A lot of explainer video scripts start with the words, “Meet Bob…” and then go on to talk about how Bob works in <insert corporate department here> within a big company and he has this problem. This explainer video structure works because it’s simple and straightforward, but you have a bigger opportunity to connect with your target audience if you can create a unique visual scenario to illustrate their problem.

What problem does your target audience experience?

While you are writing the script for the introduction, think about how you can tell a visual story or create a visual metaphor that illustrates the nature of the problem your audience experiences, rather than just saying, “Bob hates importing contacts into his CRM.”

For a 60 second explainer video, introducing the problem typically takes about 10 seconds or roughly 25 words.

Recommended Number of Words and Seconds To Use In Your Animated Explainer Video’s Introduction
	~# of Seconds	Approximate Word Count
30 Second Video	5	13
60 Second Video	10	25
90 Second Video	15	37

2). Introduce the solution (your product or service)

Here’s the moment where your company/product/service gets to shine – but don’t come on too strong like you’re an advertisement. Your product or service gets introduced to the scenario from the introduction and is presented as a solution to improve the status quo. When your product/service gets introduced, magic happens and your target audience gets the first clue that the big pain in their life or their job can be remedied.

Introduce the solution in the beginning of your video.

Introduce the solution in your animated video script.

For a 60 second explainer video, the introduction of the solution typically lasts 10 seconds or about 25 words.

Recommended Number of Words and Seconds To Use When Introducing The Solution In Your Animated Explainer Video’s Script
	~# of Seconds	Approximate Word Count
30 Second Video	5	13
60 Second Video	10	25
90 Second Video	15	37

3). How does it help / what is the process to get to success?

Remember when I said to be clear about what your main talking points are? Well this is the area to bring those details into your explainer video script. It’s now your job to paint a picture of how your solution improves the scenario through it’s unique value and benefits. Many companies say their product/service can “Save you time and money” – instead, you should use animation as a unique way to show a visual story about the way your product/service enables someone to save time and money.

Your animated video script should show how you are going to help save time and money for your clients.

Time-pending, we recommend you use this part of the video script to talk about your top 3 talking points. Don’t just tell people, show them 3 ways you make their life better. You get about 10 seconds for each talking point. In some cases, particularly for videos about tech products with a tech-savvy target audience, it makes more sense to spend this part of the video explaining the exact process that helps the target audience accomplish something new – how do they get from where they were to where they could be.

For a 60 second explainer video, the main section of your video typically lasts 30 seconds or about 75 words.

Recommended Number of Words and Seconds To Use When Illustrating The Benefits Your Solution Provides
	~# of Seconds	Approximate Word Count
30 Second Video	10	25
60 Second Video	30	75
90 Second Video	45	112

4). What should interested people do next?

Examples of popular CTAs for your explainer video.

Here’s where you take it all home. Summarize how life can be better for your target audience and how they take the first step to making that part of their life. Typical CTAs include signing up for a free account, contacting a sales rep, and downloading an app.

For a 60 second explainer video, the CTA section typically lasts 10 seconds or about 25 words.

Recommended Number Of Words & Seconds To Use To Summarize The Benefits & Tell Viewers How To Get Your Solution
	~# of Seconds	Approximate Word Count
30 second video	10	25
60 second video	10	25
90 second video	15	37

This is a tried and true animated video script template for crafting a narrative that gets people interested in learning more about your product/service/organization. For more tips and tricks to revise and improve your script, check out our article called: Supercharge Your Animated Video Script Writing.

Animated Video Script Examples

Want to see examples of animated video scripts and the videos they were turned into? Check out this guide to learn all about animated explainer video scripts and how to write explainer video scripts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing an Animated Video Script

Even with a strong structure, many businesses make common mistakes that weaken their animated video script. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your video is clear, engaging, and results-driven:

Being Too Vague: A compelling animated video script should focus on specific benefits, not just general statements. Instead of saying, “Our software makes work easier,” explain exactly how it saves time or streamlines processes.

Overloading with Information: Your audience doesn’t need every detail—stick to 2-3 key points in your animated video script to keep it focused.

Ignoring Storytelling: A successful animated video script should tell a story, not just list features. Weave a relatable problem, solution, and transformation into your video.

Lack of a Clear Call to Action: Your animated video script should end with a strong CTA, guiding viewers on what to do next—whether it’s signing up, requesting a demo, or visiting your website.

How to Make Your Animated Video Script More Engaging

An effective animated video script captures attention and keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. Here’s how to make yours stand out:

Use Conversational Language: Your animated video script should feel like a natural conversation with your audience—avoid jargon and overly complex language.

Incorporate Humor or Emotion: People remember videos that make them feel something. Adding humor or a heartfelt story to your animated video script can make it more memorable.

Add a Hook in the First 5 Seconds: The first few seconds of your animated video script are crucial. Start with a question, an interesting fact, or a relatable problem to keep viewers watching.

Use a Unique Perspective: Your animated video script should differentiate your message from competitors. A fresh angle—such as a creative character-driven story—can make your video more compelling.

Deep Dive: For more tips to make your animated videos script more engaging, read our companion article about “How To Improve Your Animated Video Script Writing.”

Choosing the Right Voiceover Style for Your Animated Video Script

The voiceover brings your animated video script to life. Choosing the right voice ensures your message resonates with your target audience. Consider these factors:

Casual vs. Formal Tone: A casual tone in your animated video script may work well for startups or lifestyle brands, while a formal tone is better suited for finance or legal industries.

Energetic vs. Calm Delivery: The tone of your animated video script should match your product and audience. An upbeat, high-energy voice may be great for tech startups, while a calm, reassuring tone works for healthcare or insurance videos.

Male vs. Female Voiceover: Both can be effective, but it’s worth A/B testing different voiceovers to see what resonates best with your audience. Choose a voice that complements your animated video script and brand identity.

Visual Storytelling: How to Align Animation with Your Animated Video Script

Your animated video script should seamlessly translate into visuals. Here’s a few tips to ensure your script is animation-friendly:

Write with Visuals in Mind: As you draft your animated video script, consider how each scene will be visually represented. Animation allows for creative storytelling, so leverage it!

Use Metaphors and Analogies: An animated video script can simplify complex concepts using visual metaphors. For example, showing a rocket launch to symbolize business growth.

Ensure Pacing Matches the Script: Each line of your animated video script should align with smooth transitions and animations. A well-paced video ensures that viewers absorb the key message without feeling rushed.

How to Optimize Your Animated Video Script for Different Video Lengths

The length of your animated video script depends on your marketing goals. Here’s how to structure your script for maximum impact:

30-Second Videos: Best for quick, high-impact brand awareness. Your animated video script should focus on a single message or value proposition.

60-Second Videos: The sweet spot for most animated video scripts. This length allows enough time to introduce a problem, present your solution, and include a CTA.

90+ Second Videos: If your product or service requires a detailed explanation, a longer animated video script may be needed. However, keep it engaging and ensure the pacing keeps viewers interested. If you have multiple key messages to convey, consider breaking up your video into multiple videos.

Wrap Up

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about writing your script or if you want to speak with us about having one of our writers develop your script for you.

This video provides additional tips about how to write your script and shows how to get production started on your video once your script is ready.

To connect with us about improving your script or having our writers help you create your explainer video script, write to: Start@VideoIgniter.com.

Hire Video Igniter to Write Your Script & Create Your Animated Video

Video Igniter provides world class animation services at prices startups can afford.

Check out our animated video portfolio! We can make any kind of 2D or 3D animated video content you can imagine.

+20 reasons companies love hiring Video Igniter to create animated videos.

Demo Reel:

Animated Video Success Stories & Testimonials

Video Igniter’s animated video service is used by companies large and small to create custom animated video content. Here’s what they have to say about their experience working with us:

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

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

“My whole family and everyone on Facebook thinks you are amazing. My whole office is freaking out.”

Patricia Shields – Real Estate Agent

Anonymous Customer Feedback

Get in touch about making an animated video + script

Schedule a call to discuss your video project.

Get a quote for your animated video.

Check out our animated video portfolio.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

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