Introduction to Motion Graphics

Did you know there is a subfield in animation called motion graphics? And did you know that people can even specialize in motion graphics and become a motion graphic designer?

In this article, we’ll be introducing you to motion graphics. Quite literally, the term means text that is moving, as opposed to static text design. These movements most often come in the form of digital animation, combining graphic design, visual and sound effect, and animation to create engaging content.

Historical Background

One of the first people to use the term “motion graphics” is John Whitney, an American inventor, composer, and animator. During World War II, the young John Whitney worked in Lockheed Aircraft Factory where he became familiar with high-speed missile photography. Through his work here, he realized that the instruments and technique could potentially be used for graphics, or many other artistic endeavors once the world was at peace again. It was about a decade later, in the late 1950s to early 1960s that he would develop the actual system and equipment for “motion control“.

He eventually set up his own company called Motion Graphics, Inc. If you know the classic Hitchcock film “Vertigo”, then you have seen one of Whitney’s most famous animated title sequences.

Motion Graphics Usage

Nowadays, motion graphics can be used in a logo or title sequence before short videos, feature films, or series. News programs also use it to breakdown information in a interesting way. Advertising and content marketing also use motion graphics quite heavily. Recently, it is also common for artists to release lyric videos, where their music is playing in sync with animated presentations of the lyrics. An example of this is Taylor Swift’s widely popular “Midnights“ album.

As creative media industry continue to grow, so the demand for motion graphics will also continue to increase.