How Do I Become a Motion Graphics Designer?

Motion graphics designers are people who produce moving animations and special effects for entertainment and marketing purposes. These individuals need to be creative and detail-oriented as well as be able to work under pressure. If you seek to become a motion graphics designer, you can complete four years of college, during which you will take several design courses. You also must develop a portfolio showcasing your work in addition to acquiring on-the-job experience, which will make you stand out to hiring managers in this industry.

A person who would like to become a motion graphics designer should complete a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, which typically takes four years. Enrollment in this type of training program requires submission of a completed enrollment form along with a high school diploma or the equivalent certification. You need to send in your high school transcript and your standardized exam results as part of the admissions process as well.

Several computer-based courses will prepare you to successfully enter this field. For example, you should study how to create videos and graphics using computer-aided design software. You need to master effective ways to use interactive media, develop websites, and edit photos along with video and audio. Other important classes include those on lighting and camera applications as well as the use of various colors and typographies when producing graphics. If you want to become a motion graphics designer, you have to master these skills because you will be responsible for coming up with and designing creative concepts on a regular basis.

Laboratory classes are an important part of a training program in this industry. Although completing classroom instruction requirements helps you to earn your degree and become a motion graphics designer, you also must develop a reel or portfolio of your work to display to potential employers when you begin interviewing for jobs. You should have examples of storyboards that you have created along with two-dimensional and three-dimensional animations that you produced during your training program.

Field experience also is extremely critical to thrive in this career area. Schools often require students to complete internships before they are able to graduate. While working as an intern to become a motion graphics designer, you have the chance to practice combining video footage with special effects animations and meeting project deadlines. You need to master a wide range of graphics software to make yourself employable in this industry. Practical experience opportunities are available at sites such as marketing agencies, broadcasting stations, and even manufacturers of programmable display systems or electronic scoreboards.