The Power of 2D Animation in B2B Explainer Videos
Two-dimensional (2D) animation is a process by which two-dimensional images are manipulated to create the illusion of motion. The technique has been used in traditional hand-drawn and computer animation for many years, and is also becoming increasingly popular as a way of creating engaging videos for digital media. 2D animation requires skillful manipulation of individual layers of artwork within a scene in order to simulate movement.
This type of animation can be created using both hand-drawn work and computer software, depending on the project needs. Each frame is designed in its own way, ensuring that each element moves with precision to create an aesthetically pleasing result. 2D animation examples include cartoons and video games, as well as commercials, music videos, and feature-length films.
When used in B2B explainer videos, watch out. This type of animation can be used to illustrate a complex concept or present a product demo in an easy-to-follow manner that is eye-catching and entertaining. With 2D animation, businesses can develop compelling stories that evoke emotion and deliver brand messages with clarity and impact.
How to Create a Compelling Story with 2D Animation
Creating a compelling story includes using the right story structure, visuals, and characters. Stories can be told in a way that resonates with viewers. Here are 5 tips to help you get started in your animation project:
1. Develop Your Story
Before starting your project, it’s important to develop your story and know who your main characters will be. Brainstorm ideas and put together an outline of how you want the story to unfold so you have a clear goal for animation production. Include writers that are strong at storytelling.
2. Choose the Right Animators
Look for animators with experience in 2D animation who understand narrative storytelling and have a strong portfolio of work that showcases their skillset. Experienced animators can help bring your project to life and ensure it is engaging for viewers. When hiring an animator, it is important to review a portfolio of work before you sign any contracts.
3. Invest in Quality Art
2D animation relies heavily on high-quality art, so be sure to invest in a talented illustrator or digital artist who has experience creating visuals for animation projects. This will ensure that the final product looks professional and visually stunning.
4. Storyboard Your Animation
Before getting into production, create a storyboard of your animation project, which will serve as a blueprint for how the narrative will unfold. It’s also a great place to test out ideas before committing them to production, so you can make changes if necessary. Be sure to check out our article on Storyboarding.
5. Utilize Audio & Music
Audio and music play an important role in telling a story and bringing it to life, so be sure to incorporate both sound effects and a soundtrack into your 2D animation. This will make the project more immersive for viewers and help carry the narrative along.
What are the benefits to a B2B company?
Cost Effective
2D animation is a great solution for those looking to create an explainer video without breaking the bank. The cost of production associated with 2D animation is significantly lower than live action film, which requires hiring actors and securing locations, as well as investing in high-quality equipment.
Companies that opt for 2D animation can still produce high-quality videos that effectively convey their message and engage viewers without having to allocate large amounts of financial resources. Thanks to its affordability and potential for creativity, 2D animation has become a popular choice for businesses when creating explainer videos. By taking advantage of such cost savings, companies can leverage this form of media to further promote their brand and services without spending beyond their means.
Versatility
The versatility of 2D animation makes it a great choice for B2B explainer videos. Companies can customize many elements to create an engaging and unique video that effectively communicates their message. Not only does this allow companies to design characters and sets that fit perfectly into the world they are creating, but it also opens up new possibilities in terms of storytelling that simply wouldn't be possible with live action videos. This gives them the freedom to really bring their story to life in a way that resonates with viewers.
Engagement
2D animations used in B2B explainer videos can be a great way to increase engagement and help you stand out from the competition. By using animation, businesses can create unique visuals that reflect their brand or specific style. Furthermore, animations provide more flexibility when it comes to crafting stories; they can tell complex stories that may not be possible with live action video due to time or budget constraints.
Scalability
Also known as motion graphics, 2D animation offers a range of benefits including scalability. This type of video production can easily be adapted to any device, making it the perfect choice.
Shareability
Videos are highly shareable across all types of social channels due to their visual appeal and entertaining nature. Animation allows companies to engage with viewers on multiple platforms, creating a larger and more engaged audience base for their product or service.