My students always ask, “What are the most required skills needed to be successful in Motion Design?”

The Digital Tutors Blog had such a well-constructed answer, I felt compelled to design a poster from that original entry. So what are the essential skills to be an design and animating ninja? Read on, my friend…

Graphic Design
This is of the utmost importance to a motion designer. After all, motion design is essentially bringing graphic elements to life through
animation. Giving yourself that knowledge of graphic design will really help push your motion design work to a professional level.

Traditional Art
Knowledge of traditional art is extremely helpful during your design process and will help develop the best way to communicate your idea. It’s usually easier and quicker to sketch out your ideas on paper than it is to build it in the computer – only to find out it’s not working.

Animation
Bringing elements to life through animation is more than just setting a few key frames. You need a strong foundation in animation fundamentals and how things move in an appealing way. The Principles of Animation apply as much to you as they do a character animator.

3D Design
3D elements are very prevalent in motion design. You’ll find them in logos, TV show titles, commercials and more. Motion designers must have this skill to keep up with the changing industry. Expanding your knowledge of 3D will open up more opportunities for you.

Typography
Typography is often times the driving force behind a design. It may only use type to convey the product, company or service. Since type is so prominent you must have a command of typography; what elements make up a typeface and what compliments a design.

Color Theory
As a motion designer you must possess a strong understanding of color theory, and what colors convey different moods and feelings to an audience. Give your color choices a great deal of deliberate thought to determine the color scheme for your motion design.

Creativity
Not only does a motion designer bring elements to life- you must also know the best way to do this. When working with very little client information is where creativity comes into play- being able to take a simple idea and transform it into a complex, appealing piece.

Technical Skills
A great deal of motion design is done with computers, so it’s important to possess technical skills of current and emerging technology. With numerous programs a motion designer must master in order to excel in the industry, you need to be able to hit the ground running.

Communication
Great motion designs always start with communication with clients or creative directors. You must articulate your ideas and concepts clearly. Clients are typically not designers, so it’s up to you to convey your ideas to them in a way that’s understandable and clear.

Originality
It’s easy to follow trends and jump on a style or look that is being used. This can make your work resemble all the rest and you won’t stand out. Think of your style as your signature, with every project you encounter as a chance to imprint this into the minds of the audience.

Thanks, Digital Tutors! Keep up the great work!