How to Become a Motion Graphics Designer

If you have a desire to bring graphic design to life using visual effects and animation, then you probably dream of becoming a Motion Graphics Designer. In this position, you’ll be able to add depth and dynamics to digital media and connect with audiences on a variety of different platforms. Venturing into this career means having some specific skills, and knowing what you need is the first step toward obtaining the career of your dreams.

What is a Motion Graphics Designer?

A Motion Graphics Designer creates animations, graphics and videos that are visually alluring. Your job is often to communicate complex ideas and concepts to audiences in a way that is engaging, entertaining and educational.

When it comes to getting a job as a Motion Graphics Designer, there are certain skills that need to be acquired. It’s important to have an understanding of design principles, including color theory, layout and typography, in addition to the principles of animation and motion graphics.

There are a variety of programs and software that a motion graphic designer might use to create graphics in two- or three-dimension formats, including Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign and After Effects, among others. It can also be beneficial to have traditional art skills to brainstorm initial ideas on paper before transferring them into a digital environment, as well as knowing how to select typography, audio, visuals and other design elements.

Motion graphic designers typically work with a creative team, but they can also be self-employed. No matter what job environment you work in, having good communication skills is essential. Not only do you need to be able to speak with members of your office team, but you may also need to communicate with clients and stakeholders to ensure the final product meets expectations. 

What Tools Do I Need To Get Started?

Once you have made the decision to become a Motion Graphics Designer, the next thing you’ll need to do is understand what tools you’ll need to get started—and to continue your career. There are a variety of different software options to choose from, but some of the most common include the following:

Photoshop

This is probably the most elementary tool that you will use as a motion graphic designer. This software is not free, but you can start with a free seven-day trial to get a feeling for how to use this program before investing in it to further your career.

Adobe After Effects

Adobe After Effects is the industry-standard software that is used to create motion graphics. Whether you’re creating simple animations or complex, multi-layered composition, After Effects will help you achieve your goals. This software is ideal for creating 2D animations and text animation. It comes with an amazing set of tools to correct color and help with composition.

This software is only available as part of a Creative Cloud membership, so it’s not free (although, there is a free seven-day trial). However, there are various payment options to choose from, so you’re sure to find a plan that fits into your budget.

Cinema 4D

If you’re planning on creating a lot of 3D motion graphics, then you’ll want to check out Cinema 4D; it’s ideal for designing 3D environments and characters. Cinema 4D is easy to use and has an intuitive interface. It also integrates with AFter Effects, so you are able to import 3D models into any motion graphics project quickly and easily.

This software comes with a 14-day trial, and then you will have to choose one of the payment options to continue to use this tool. There are a variety of payment plans to choose from, including pricing for individuals and students, so there should be a plan that works for you.

Blender

Blender is a free, open-source animation software that you can use to create visual effects and motion graphics, as well as video games. This tool offers a variety of features that can be used by both beginners and professionals to create eye-catching motion graphics that get noticed.

Maya 

If you’re planning on doing motion graphics for TV, film or video games, then you’ll probably want to use Maya. This software is a popular choice for creating motion graphics that are complex, and it comes equipped with advanced animation tools.

Maya comes with a 30-day free trial, and then you have several different pricing plans to choose from. If you go with the monthly plan, you will pay $235 per month. You can also choose to pay for one year ($1,875) or 3 years ($5,625). There is also a Flex plan that allows you to buy tokens to use this software.

Steps to Become a Motion Graphics Designer

There are a lot of benefits to becoming a Motion Graphics Designer, and if you're thinking about pursuing this line of work, it can be incredibly lucrative. However, there are some steps that need to be followed to ensure you are as successful in this career as possible.

1. Get Educated

The first step to becoming a Motion Graphics Designer is to get some type of education. Depending on who you want to work for, you may be required to get a bachelor’s degree. However, you don’t necessarily need one, but getting some type of education, including taking online courses, can ensure your success.

2. Learn How to Use the Tools of the Trade

There are several different types of software used for this job, and knowing how to use them is essential to a lucrative career. It may be possible to achieve two goals in one and obtain a certification in using tools of the graphic design trade while also obtaining your education in this field.

3. Create a Portfolio

One of the best ways to get noticed by potential employers or clients is to create a portfolio. They want to be able to see examples of the type of work you do. There are several different ways to put this together, including using assignments you did while obtaining your education, volunteering your skills for local nonprofits or other businesses or even getting an internship.

You might also consider putting together fictional projects to highlight your skills and abilities. Showcase these on a personal blog, and make sure to include the link on your resume when you send it to potential employers or clients.

Motion Graphics Designer Career Path

There are a couple of different paths you can take to become a Motion Graphics Designer. You can go to school and earn a bachelor’s degree in motion graphics design, or you can take online training or certification courses. Deciding which option is right for you will boil down to how much time you want to invest in this career. Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need a degree, as experience can help you hone your skills. 

After you get a degree or certification, you’ll then need to put together a portfolio to send to potential employers or clients. At this point, it doesn’t matter if you want to work for a company or be a freelancer, you need something to show to others that you have skills and know how to create motion graphics.

When it comes to your career, deciding to work for someone else or for yourself will be a personal decision. There are pros and cons to each. Either option could be the right choice to ensure that you have a lucrative and fulfilling career.

Whether you choose to work for a company or as a freelancer, to get the most out of your career, you’ll need to make sure you engage in continuous learning. The field of motion graphics is constantly changing, and staying up to date on the latest trends and software updates ensures you stay relevant.

Why Become A Motion Graphics Designer?

As you consider all of the different career options that exist in technology, you may be asking yourself why you should become a Motion Graphics Designer. While there is no one answer to this question, there are some things to consider that may help you make up your mind.

You Can Work for a Variety of Different Companies

As a Motion Graphics Designer, you aren’t limited to what industry you can work in. In fact, practically any industry can use a Motion Graphics Designer, so if you enjoy challenges and the chance to work for a wide variety of companies, then this might be the field for you.

You Can Express Your Creativity

Your job is to take ideas from clients and turn them into motion graphics that audiences can connect with and learn from, and it takes creativity to make something that grabs attention and is memorable. You get to use your imagination and storytelling abilities, along with your technical skills, to develop a final product that a client and their audience will love.

You Can Earn a Decent Salary

Thus far into 2024, the average Motion Graphics Designer salary is $37 an hour, or $76,634 a year. The outlook for this position, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, from 2022-2032 is 8% growth. This is faster than average growth compared to other industries, so there is a need for Motion Graphics Designers.

You Can Be Your Own Boss

Should you decide to become a freelance Motion Graphics Designer, you’ll get to be your own boss. That means creating a schedule and taking on clients that work best for you.

Learn the Skills to Become a Motion Graphics Designer at Noble Desktop

When it comes to obtaining the skills that are necessary to become a Motion Graphics Designer, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Noble Desktop. There are a wide range of courses that will help you hone your software skills and technique. You have the option of taking these classes online or in-person.

You don’t need to spend a ton of time gaining motion graphic design skills. If you enroll in a bootcamp or certificate program, you can learn the necessary skills in as little as a few weeks to a few months. The best part of these classes? You’ll be able to put together a portfolio to show to potential employers or clients.