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School of Motion Podcast
The most EPIC 2024 roundup of all things Motion Design
Dec 30, 2024
Aharon Rabinowitz, a talented motion designer who joined the School of Motion in 2024, joins industry veterans Joey Korenman and EJ Hassenfratz to discuss the transformative changes in motion design over the past year. They delve into the impact of AI on the industry, the evolution of real-time tools, and the importance of community engagement. The trio also share bold predictions for 2025, emphasizing the need for adaptation and innovation. From software updates to emerging platforms, this conversation is packed with insights on the future of motion design!
06:23:54
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Quick takeaways
- The motion design industry in 2023 saw significant adaptations due to economic shifts, emphasizing flexibility and creativity in project management.
- As traditional motion design projects decreased, there was a notable rise in demand for UX/UI design and interactive content.
- The integration of tools like Unreal Engine and Rive transformed motion design workflows, enhancing efficiency and expanding creative possibilities.
- Artificial intelligence emerged as a double-edged sword in motion design, with many professionals viewing it as a tool to augment creativity rather than replace it.
- Networking through in-person events was revitalized, becoming essential for artists to foster connections and explore creative partnerships within the motion design community.
- Emotional storytelling gained traction in motion design, encouraging artists to engage audiences on deeper levels through authenticity and meaningful content creation.
Deep dives
The State of Motion Design in 2023
The motion design landscape experienced significant transformations in 2023, with many artists and studios grappling with the changing economic conditions. Despite a downturn, there were signs of resilience as the industry began to recover, with several contributors noting an improvement in workload towards the latter half of the year. Freelancers faced challenges but found opportunities within shifting demand for interactive and UX/UI-related work. As clients became increasingly budget-conscious, the need for flexibility and creativity in project management emerged as essential for motion design professionals.
Growing Opportunities in UX/UI and Interactive Design
A noticeable shift towards UX/UI design and interactive content emerged in 2023, with studios and freelancers pivoting to accommodate this trend. As traditional motion design projects gradually declined, the demand for comprehensive UX/UI solutions increased, pushing artists to explore new pathways and broaden their skill sets. Many companies began integrating motion design into their digital products, highlighting the versatility and adaptability needed within the industry. This trend is expected to continue growing, prompting motion designers to embrace interactive platforms and tools like Rive and Unreal Engine.
Unreal Engine: Bridging the Gap between Motion Design and Production
Unreal Engine solidified its position as a game-changer by seamlessly blending motion design with real-time production processes. As studios and freelancers harnessed its capabilities, they discovered a new efficiency in creating high-quality visuals for live events, commercials, and film. Epic's commitment to improving Unreal's tools and interfaces further enhanced its appeal among motion designers seeking rapid turnarounds and encompassing a broader range of creative possibilities. The application became particularly useful for in-stadium graphics, virtual production, and immersive experiences, showing the industry's evolution.
Rive's Impact on the Motion Design Landscape
Rive emerged as a revolutionary tool for motion designers in 2023, enabling artists to create engaging animations and interactions without requiring extensive technical knowledge. With built-in features like responsive layouts and runtime integrations for platforms such as Webflow and Framer, Rive expanded the scope of where motion design could be applied. As companies increasingly began adopting Rive for product marketing and branding, its role as a key player in the motion design ecosystem became evident. The course offerings and community engagement surrounding Rive further highlighted its potential to reshape the future of interactive animation in the industry.
Marketing Trends: The Importance of Community and Communication
In an age of social media saturation, motion design professionals realized the crucial role of effective communication for building connections and securing work. As established marketing strategies shifted, freelancers and studios began embracing a more personal approach to foster relationships with brands and agencies. Experimenting with various platforms and storytelling methods helped artists stand out in a crowded marketplace, emphasizing the significance of creating authentic connections. The emphasis on community, collaboration, and transparency became paramount in navigating the challenges posed by the shifting economic landscape.
The Evolution of AI in the Motion Design Space
Artificial intelligence emerged as a powerful force in the motion design industry, with tools like Rive and Adobe's AI integrations significantly altering creative workflows. While concerns about AI replacing traditional creative roles lingered, most industry professionals recognized its potential as a valuable asset to enhance their work and streamline processes. The push toward generative tools led artists to explore new ways of storytelling, ultimately amplifying their creativity rather than suppressing it. As AI-empowered solutions became more common, the focus shifted toward fostering human creativity supported by emerging technologies.
Navigating an Uncertain Market: Predictions for 2025
As the motion design industry anticipates a recovery heading into 2025, there's cautious optimism surrounding increased demand for creative services. Many studios expect a resurgence of brand awareness campaigns, utilizing motion design to connect emotionally with audiences. Additionally, the full integration of AI and interactive design tools will pave the way for innovative storytelling approaches. Freelancers and studios alike are encouraged to position themselves strategically and explore new niches, ensuring they remain competitive as the industry continues to evolve.
Future of Freelancing: Building a Sustainable Business
Freelancing in the motion design space has become increasingly competitive, requiring professionals to not only hone their skills but also develop a solid business strategy. Building meaningful relationships with clients and establishing a strong personal brand enhances an artist's marketability. Freelancers should consider diversifying their services by exploring niche areas such as interactive design and UX/UI to adapt to industry trends. As the demand for dynamic and engaging content grows, leveraging platforms like Rive can provide a sustainable edge in an ever-evolving landscape.
The Rise of In-House Creative Teams
In 2023, many studios noted a trend of brands investing in in-house creative teams to streamline their production processes. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the value of creative talent that can generate high-quality content without relying on external agencies. As in-house teams gain traction, freelancers and motion design studios must adapt to this new reality by establishing direct relationships with brands. Understanding clients' needs and demonstrating expertise across multiple disciplines will become essential for motion designers aiming to secure work in a competitive landscape.
Changing Demand: The End of Traditional Explainer Videos?
The traditional explainer video model suffered a decline throughout 2023 as brands sought more dynamic and interactive content. Motion designers were encouraged to pivot their offerings toward shorter, punchier formats that resonate better with today’s audiences. As social media continues to influence content consumption habits, the one-size-fits-all approach to explainer videos became less appealing, prompting artists to explore new styles and formats. The shift in demand for creative content emphasizes the importance of versatility and adaptability in the evolving landscape of motion design.
Emotional Storytelling: The Future of Motion Design?
As the motion design industry progresses, there's a noticeable shift toward emotional storytelling that captures human experiences and connects with audiences on deeper levels. Artists are increasingly exploring ambient and slower-paced projects that focus on conveying emotions and thought-provoking themes. This trend reflects a growing desire for authenticity and meaningful content within the design community. By embracing these principles, motion designers can forge stronger connections with viewers and elevate their work in a saturated marketplace.
The Importance of Networking in the Motion Design Community
Returning to in-person events and meetups has revitalized the motion design community, fostering connections among artists, freelancers, and studios. Building rapport and trust through face-to-face interactions enhances collaboration and opens new opportunities for creative partnerships. As the industry continues to evolve, networking will remain a vital component for establishing connections and promoting growth. Artists are encouraged to leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to maintain connections after events and transform relationships into lasting professional networks.
Blurring the Lines Between Production and Motion Design
The advent of new technologies and tools has blurred the lines between traditional motion design and production, creating exciting opportunities for creatives to be involved earlier in the process. Tools like Unreal Engine and Rive have enabled motion designers to take on roles typically reserved for visual effects professionals, resulting in a more integrated approach to storytelling. As projects demand faster turnarounds and real-time interactivity, the collaboration between motion design and production will continue to strengthen. This evolution highlights the importance of adaptability and cross-disciplinary skills for professionals in the motion design industry.
Cavalry: A Unique 2D Animation Tool
Cavalry has emerged as a unique competitor in the 2D animation tool realm, offering a node-based approach that allows creatives to create intricate animations with a focus on flexibility and control. While it may not yet compete directly with After Effects for all users, its fast playback and innovative features have garnered interest among motion designers. Cavalry's distinct approach challenges traditional animation workflows and showcases the potential for new creative possibilities. For motion designers looking to level up their skills, Cavalry presents an intriguing option worth exploring in pursuit of animated content.
AI in Motion Design: Embracing New Technologies
The integration of AI technologies into motion design tools has opened up new possibilities for artists, providing enhanced workflows and creative support. While some traditionalists resist the adoption of AI, many industry professionals recognize its utility in driving efficiency and meeting client demands. As companies grapple with the implications of AI adoption, the focus will shift towards implementing tools that enable human artists to work faster rather than replace them entirely. By embracing AI as a complement to their skills, motion designers can navigate the changing landscape and enhance their creative processes.
Collaborative Tools: Building Connections
In an increasingly interconnected world, the importance of collaborative tools in motion design becomes ever more apparent. Artists and studios looking to stay competitive must invest in software that facilitates teamwork and streamlines project management. As technology continues to evolve, platforms that integrate smoothly with current workflows will gain a competitive edge. The shift toward collaboration highlights the need for effective communication and adaptability among creative teams, ultimately enhancing the quality of work produced in the motion design industry.
Embracing the Magic of Motion Design
The essence of motion design lies in its ability to create magic that captivates and engages audiences. As technology and techniques continue to evolve, motion designers are encouraged to embrace creativity and take risks in their work. The future of motion design is bright, with the potential to explore new mediums, engage with interactive platforms, and harness powerful tools like AI to push boundaries further. By nurturing a spirit of experimentation and innovation, the motion design community can continue inspiring and delivering extraordinary experiences for audiences worldwide.
2024 was a transformative year for motion design - from AI disruption to the evolution of real-time tools, emerging platforms, and a changing economic landscape. In this comprehensive year-end roundup, Joey Korenman, EJ Hassenfratz, and Aharon Rabinowitz break down everything that shaped our industry and peer into what 2025 might bring. We also asked some industry luminaries to weigh in, so you’ll hear from the likes of Buck, Scholar, Motion Hatch, Colosseum, Curious Refuge and more!
Get ready for candid insights on the state of motion design, software updates that changed the game, the impact of AI, and how artists are adapting to an ever-shifting landscape. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, this conversation covers the trends, tools, and opportunities that matter.
Plus, hear our panel's bold predictions for 2025 - from the future of real-time rendering to emerging platforms and where the next big opportunities lie for motion designers.
🔥 IN THIS EPISODE: Best motion design work of 2024 The state of the industry and economy Major software updates (After Effects, Cinema 4D, Blender, Unreal) New tools and tech to watch out for The rise of AI and its impact on motion design The return of in-person events and meetups Predictions and trends for 2025
Head over to our blog post for links to everything we talk about: https://www.schoolofmotion.com/blog/2024-review
Chapters
00:00:00 Intro 00:01:21 In the Beginning... 00:01:50 Defining Motion Design 00:02:51 Evolution of Motion Design 00:08:51 School of Motion Updates 00:12:34 Favorite Works of 2024 00:28:49 Shoutouts to Studios and Artists 00:37:40 Innovative Marketing Strategies 00:39:15 The Rise of Niche Studios 00:45:14 Advancements in After Effects and 3D Tools 01:17:37 Exploring Maxon Studio and Its Strategy 01:21:03 Grayscale Gorilla's Big Release 01:25:30 Adobe's Substance Integration 01:28:16 The Future of Generative AI in Textures 01:35:58 Blender's Growing Influence 01:52:42 Will Blender Take Over? 01:55:48 Cinema 4D vs Blender: Industry Adoption 01:59:37 The Rise of After Effects in Motion Design 02:04:47 Unreal Engine's Impact on Motion Design 02:25:59 Unreal Marketplace Missteps 02:31:03 Rive: The Future of Interactive Animation 02:40:54 The Return of 2Advanced 02:47:32 The Future of Lottie? 02:50:45 Exploring Womp: A New 3D Modeling Tool 02:55:49 Cavalry: The Houdini of 2D Animation 03:07:30 Other Motion Design News 03:16:50 Meetups Are Back: Highlights and Events 03:20:55 Tech Updates: Apple Vision Pro and Meta's Orion 03:23:19 Adobe vs. Procreate: The AI Debate 03:34:56 The Mo Economy: Trends and Predictions 04:05:55 The Rise of Rive in Animation 04:09:55 Future Trends in Motion Design 04:16:11 The Importance of Editing Skills 04:21:09 Effective Marketing Strategies for Freelancers 04:39:22 The Impact of AI on the Industry 04:54:08 AI's Impact on Creative Work 04:55:59 AI as a Tool for Artists 04:57:48 Historical Context and Future Predictions 05:01:51 The AI Plateau and Future Tools 05:22:11 2025 Predictions 05:34:49 The Future of AI Aesthetics 05:47:22 Economic Outlook for Motion Design 05:51:22 Niche Markets and Specialization 06:02:41 AI's Impact on the Artist Community
SCHOOL OF MOTION COURSES All Courses - https://som.bz/3SUg5Yb Guided Courses - https://som.bz/3LYmJef Instant Access Courses - https://som.bz/3AWv63C After Effects Courses - https://som.bz/42sBon6 2D Animation - https://som.bz/3VCBtme 3D Courses - https://som.bz/3ArdpZu Design Courses - https://som.bz/3NGyJC
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