Considering the “house rules” of motion graphics design, it’s clear that the purpose of the artwork you’ll be creating won’t be entertainment-focused (and this will help us make an important distinction between terms in a bit!). Instead, your motion design projects will be efficient in conveying information in the blink of an eye, be able to explain complex projects in an easily digestible format, and help sell products/services/ideas with your creativity being the most costly production resource of the entire process.
What Is Motion Design?
Motion graphics are pieces of animation or digital footage which create the illusion of motion or rotation, and are usually combined with audio for use in multimedia projects. Motion graphics are usually displayed via electronic media technology, but may also be displayed via manual-powered technology.
“Motion design” is in fact a shortened form of the term “motion graphic design.” Keeping in mind this important tidbit, you should find it easier to discern between all the various labels that are used interchangeably to describe the field of graphic design in motion. To be concise, motion design represents the practice of putting in motion any graphic design element, following the principles of graphic design: balance, alignment, hierarchy, contrast, rhythm, proximity, and color and space.