Specialist agencies like Explain Visually offer a wealth of talent, cutting-edge technology and industry knowledge to transform your vision into compelling animated content. From concept development to final delivery, our professional 2D animation services can take your project to new heights and help you stand out in a crowded digital space. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the entire world of expert 2D animation agency services (using our own work as an example), providing you with valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate this exciting field.
What is 2D animation?
2D animation is the art of creating movement in a two-dimensional space, involving characters, objects, and backgrounds. It originated in the late 19th century with pioneers like Émile Reynaud and J. Stuart Blackton experimenting with sequential images.
In 1892, Charles-Émile Reynaud showed the first animated film, Pauvre Pierrot.
The process typically involves creating 24 frames per second, though animators often work “on 2s,” producing 12 unique drawings per second to save time and costs. 2D animation has evolved from hand-drawn techniques to digital methods, using software like Toon Boom Harmony and Adobe After Effects. This versatile medium is used in various applications, including:
- cartoons,
- advertisements,
- animated movies,
- games,
- educational content.
2D animation differs from 3D animation in its flat, stylized appearance and focus on the X and Y axes, while 3D adds depth with the Z axis. Despite the rise of 3D animation, 2D remains popular and is experiencing a resurgence in various media formats.
Interesting fact from our specialist at Explain Visually!
Modern 2D animation software can now simulate traditional hand-drawn techniques, allowing artists to create animations that retain the charm and aesthetic of classic hand-drawn cartoons while benefiting from the efficiency of digital tools. This blend of old and new techniques is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in 2D animation, surprising viewers with a fresh take on a classic art form.
Benefits of 2D animation
We have created a list of benefits that your company can benefit from when implementing 2D animation, for example in marketing or internal information projects. No beating around the bush, just facts😉!
- Cost-effective – generally less expensive to produce than 3D animation or live-action videos (in this regard we refer you to our comprehensive guide on the prices of professional services: Price of an explainer video – how much does it cost and why?).
- Time-efficient – faster to create and complete projects compared to 3D animation.
- Artistic freedom – allows for greater creative expression and diversity in design.
- Simplicity – easier to produce and modify, making it accessible for various projects.
- Versatility – can be used for a wide range of applications, from entertainment to education and marketing.
- Brand reinforcement – helps businesses create memorable characters and visual branding elements.
- Effective communication – simplifies complex information and makes it more engaging.
- Emotional connection – can evoke emotions and create stronger connections with audiences.
- Easy error correction – mistakes can be quickly fixed by redrawing affected frames.
- Seamless integration – easily incorporated into various marketing channels and platforms.
Choosing the right animation style
Choosing the right animation style is crucial for effectively conveying your message and engaging your target audience. The selected style should align with your brand identity, reflecting your company’s personality and values.
Consider your project’s subject matter, audience demographics, and budget constraints when making your decision. Different animation styles, such as digital whiteboard and vector animations, stop motion, explainer videos or motion graphics, each have their own strengths and are suited for various purposes.
Example (final product) – whiteboard animation for Time4Tea
Also, the tone of your story and the emotional states of your characters should influence your choice of animation style. It’s important to balance creativity with budget limitations, finding innovative ways to express your brand’s message economically.
Remember!
There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and the right animation style will depend on your specific project requirements and goals.
Unsure which type of animation will meet your company’s needs and fulfil all expectations? Don’t worry! You don’t need to come with a ready-made project. Your idea and vision are enough, and our professionals will transform them into animations. Let’s talk!
Finding the right animation studio
When searching for a 2D animation studio, be aware that price and quality can vary greatly between studios, leading to overpaying or receiving a video that doesn’t meet expectations. To avoid these pitfalls, look for a company with a proven track record and ensure the price is great value for money and realistic.
If you have found our website, then the fact is that you have just found the right agency to work with👏. At Explain Visually, we’ve created high-quality 2D animations for top brands and aim to provide the best prices.
Explain Visually SHOWREEL 2023
What to expect from an animation agency?
An animation agency typically offers a wide range of services, from concept development to final delivery of animated content. They employ a creative team of skilled professionals, including animators, illustrators, writers, and project managers, to bring your vision to life.
A reputable agency, like Explain Visually, will provide clear lines of communication and regular updates throughout the project timeline. They should be able to adapt to a variety of animation styles and techniques to suit your brand and project requirements.
Explain Visually Portfolio – Projects for companies from dozens of industries.
Additionally, a professional animation agency will have a portfolio, case study and customers opinions showcasing their previous work and client references. The turnaround time for an animation project can vary depending on its complexity, but is typically between 4 and 8 weeks for a standard explainer video.
The future of 2D animation
The future of 2D animation is brimming with exciting possibilities and innovative advancements. As technology continues to evolve, we’re seeing a fascinating blend of traditional artistry and cutting-edge digital tools.
Virtual and augmented reality are opening up new dimensions for 2D animation, creating immersive experiences that were once unimaginable. The integration of 2D elements in mixed reality environments is pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling and educational content. Moreover, the growing demand for content across various platforms, from social media to streaming services, is creating unprecedented opportunities for 2D animators and studios.
Our animation team is always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible with 2D animation. We’re excited to see what the future holds for 2D animation and how we can continue to innovate and create engaging content for our clients. Have fun with us!