- 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, television channel, or communications agency. Many professionals also choose to work on a freelance basis, depending on the nature of the projects and their career goals.
This profession has developed strongly in recent years and offers solid prospects for career development. The growth of promotional videos, digital content, broadcast media, and educational materials has contributed to the increasing demand for motion designers, making it a well-established and attractive career path.
Salaries vary according to experience, responsibilities, and the type of organisation. Early-career professionals generally earn toward the lower end of the pay scale, while more experienced motion designers earn closer to the median or upper end.
Salary overview
- Typical salary range: $62,000 – $114,000+ per year
- Median salary: ~$85,000 per year
With experience, a motion designer may progress to roles such as project manager, lead motion designer, or artistic director.
