Growing up, I’ve always had a fascination with motion graphics and how they could help me express my creativity, from my humble school days doodling in my exercise books making charming flip-books featuring jovial stick figures doing various amusing gestures (and then being reprimanded by teachers who clearly lacked any form of humour). Now as an adult, I continue to find myself captivated by the fun and rich world of motion graphics – a field that never fails to bring out my inner child and what’s even better I get paid to do it now!
As technology continues to rapidly evolve (just like my waistline), so too do the trends in motion graphics. In 2023, motion graphics will be even more prominent in our everyday lives. From movies to advertisements to websites and social media, motion graphics are integral to how we consume media. As such, it is important to stay on top of the latest motion graphic trends to ensure that your work is up-to-date, engaging and on-trend (just like me).
Let’s look at some of this year’s top motion graphics trends we should anticipate.
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One size DOESN’T fit all
As people’s attention spans shrink and the noise of competing media continues to rise, audiences are demanding more engaging, honest, and personalised content. This means prioritising authenticity over perfectionism. In 2023, audiences expect motion graphics that capture a deeper meaning and evoke emotion rather than just delivering a message or giving information. Authenticity will be key in standing out from the competition and creating meaningful connections with viewers. Brands should focus on capturing stories that their audiences can relate to, rather than simply pushing products or services. This includes incorporating unique typography, original illustrations, and customised soundtracks to ensure that each animation stands out and feels genuine.
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Simplicity will reign
The concept of minimalism has been growing in popularity over the last few years and it is likely to stay that way for many years to come. This trend is driven by the idea that a minimalist design is easier to absorb and creates a sense of serenity and purity. More and more viewers are drawn towards simple lines and visuals with streamlined elements and reduced complexity. Motion graphics in particular have seen a significant decrease in the number of frames and textures used in order to create visually appealing content; creators are finding that they can communicate their message without overwhelming the viewer with too much visual information.
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Inclusive visuals
Graphic design is a powerful tool to promote inclusivity, both directly and indirectly. This can be achieved through the use of language, colour, texture, and iconography that represent all kinds of people, cultures, and lifestyles. Using visuals that represent a wide range of ethnicities, body types, gender identities, and abilities will make motion graphics more accessible and relatable for viewers from all walks of life.
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Vibrant nostalgia
This trend blends old-school elements with modern animation techniques to give the final product a refreshing yet nostalgic look. With the use of vibrant colour and timeless design, this trend is perfect for those who wish to capture a feeling of nostalgia without compromising on modern design principles. The mix of past and present in motion graphics gives us a glimpse into the future of graphic design, where old-school and modern trends can coexist harmoniously.
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It’s a floater!
One of the most exciting trends in motion graphics right now is the use of anti-gravity and floating techniques. This effect involves using 3D objects suspended in a three-dimensional space without a set pattern, creating a mesmerising zero-gravity effect. This innovative trend has been making waves in motion graphics as it offers a stunning way to capture viewers’ attention and transport them into a different world. Whether used for commercial or artistic purposes, this trend is sure to continue being popular in the motion graphics world in 2023 and beyond.
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Mixing 2D and 3D
This innovative trend involves combining different aspects of both 2D and 3D animation into a single video, resulting in an eye-catching and captivating visual experience for the viewer. This fusion of two different animation styles is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after trends in motion graphics and is sure to continue gaining popularity in the coming years.
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Kinetic typography
Kinetic typography combines animation and type-based design. It is an increasingly popular motion graphic trend that is perfect for attracting attention and engaging viewers with the power of words. Through cleverly timed movements, kinetic typography can express a wide range of emotions, from subtle to intense. It is also a great tool for reinforcing a message or idea. The text itself may be in the form of catchy slogans, memorable quotes, educational material, or even advertising messages. By combining text with the power of motion, kinetic typography offers a unique opportunity to capture and retain viewers’ attention in a creative and engaging way.
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Stop-motion
Stop-motion has traditionally been created in a studio with continuous photos of real objects, but this can be tedious, time-consuming and expensive. Now, with advances in design software, you can create almost identical results much faster and on a smaller budget. In 2023, I have little doubt that marketers will fully capitalise on this time-honoured design.
The future of motion graphics looks bright and will continue to develop with advancements in technology and changes in the design world. In 2023, we will see a strong focus on authenticity, simplicity, and inclusive visuals. Liquid motion, mixing 2D & 3D elements, minimalism, vibrant nostalgia, stop-motion and kinetic typography will all be key components.
With these trends, we are sure to see stunning motion graphics that capture the attention of viewers and help to create immersive user experiences.
