Glossary · Updated
What is motion graphics?
Short answer
Motion graphics are animated graphic elements such as titles, shapes, charts and icons, designed to explain or decorate video. In talking-head videos they highlight key words, show numbers and mark sections. They can be made manually in tools such as After Effects or generated by an editing skill.
How is motion graphics used in editing?
Examples include a big word appearing behind the speaker, a chart building as a number is said or a card summarising a list. See motion graphics for talking-head videos.
What mistakes do people make?
- Too much on screen
- Slow animations
- Text too small
Which skill builds them?
Layers builds a word behind your head, plates, charts, cards and 3D page fly-throughs.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need After Effects?
Not with a skill. A skill such as Layers builds animated graphics for you, so After Effects is only needed for fully custom work.
Are motion graphics the same as animation?
They are graphic-led animation.
How long should graphics last?
Long enough to read.
Can I make them in a browser?
Some online editors offer templates for motion graphics, though the results are more limited than a dedicated animation tool.
Skills mentioned on this page
Layers
A full motion-graphics edit from one plain clip: words behind your head, plates, charts and cards.
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Keep reading
Use cases
Motion graphics for talking-head videos, without After Effects
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