- Training Graphic Design
This is one of the graphic design professions that have emerged in recent years. Motion design has become an essential part of many creative processes, whether it be for web advertising, TV show trailers, certain series, department stores' screens or the cinema, for example. Motion Designers wear two hats: creative and technical, capable of working on the entire production chain for an animation or interface.
The profession of motion designer has become an essential part of many creative processes, whether for web advertising, TV show trailers, certain series, department stores’ screens or the cinema, for example.
The tasks of a motion designer
Clearly, motion design is about animating graphics and designing animated, audiovisual and interactive content. Motion designers use movement as their main graphic and artistic tool. They are involved at various stages in the creative process.
Generally, starting with a meeting with the client, they propose several different stagings to enable the client to make a choice. They then draw up a storyboard. These preliminary stages enable the motion designer and his team to define a guideline for the project.
They then tackle the actual production phase: rendering the images, editing, colour grading and encoding. They manage the creative process, adapting to technical cutaways, designing movements and installing effects.
Their skills and knowledge
Given the scope of their remit, it’s clear that Motion Designers need to have a keen sense of image throughout the creative process.
The Motion Designer is generally part of a team(art director, project manager, web developers, Flash specialists, 3D animators, illustrators, video graphic artists, sound designers), which implies a great ability to listen, to stand back and to question themselves if necessary in the light of feedback. All in all, they need to fit in well with the teamwork.
Their curiosity and ability to keep abreast of the latest developments and to keep abreast of their professional environment are also major assets in the exercise of their profession, in which the use of English is invaluable.
In addition, Motion Designers need to master a wide range of software: Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, Premiere Pro, 3DS, Cine 4D, etc.
ESMA is one of the major art schools offering specialised courses in this field. The school offers training for the Motion Designer profession in Montpellier and Toulouse through the Motion Graphics Design course, a Bac 4 qualification based on a pragmatic approach to this emerging profession.
Careers, salaries and job opportunities
A motion designer works in an agency, or as an employee in a design studio, production company, TV channel or communications agency. They may also work on a freelance basis.
This profession has developed strongly in recent years and offers excellent prospects for career development.
The recent development of promotional mini-videos, broadcast media and other teaching aids has benefited this relatively well-paid profession.
Salaries obviously vary according to experience. The average annual salary is between €35,000 and €42,000 gross.
With experience, a motion designer may consider a position as project manager or artistic director.
