Motion Designer

Motion designer: the overview

Similar titles: motion graphic designer, multimedia content creator.

Level of education: bachelor's degree (3-5 years).

Employability: good.

Starting salary: €2,200 gross/month.

Experienced salary: €4,000 gross/month.

What is a motion designer?

A multi-talented digital artist, the motion designer combines skills in graphic design, animation, and sound to bring visual content to life. They create videos, animated illustrations, and visual effects. Their role is to translate the client brief into a web video or commercial spot. To achieve this, the motion designer produces the moodboard (board defining graphic directions) and selects the necessary software. They then create the storyboard and execute the imagery themselves.

What training is required to become a motion designer?

In addition to animation and graphic design, the role of multimedia content creator requires proficiency in audio and storytelling. After high school, preferably with an artistic or IT focus, advanced training in applied arts, motion design, and graphic design is essential.

• Bachelor in Motion Design (3 years post-high school);
• Master's in Artistic Direction/Motion 3D (5 years post-high school).

What are the duties of a motion designer?

The primary task of a motion designer is to translate a conceptual brief into images and textures. Once this is done, the professional creates a storyboard. They then use dedicated software for production. While they can work independently, they may also guide other image professionals.

Production of moodboards and storyboards

To perform their motion design work effectively, the multimedia content creator must grasp the client's intentions. After studying the brief, they create the moodboard. This is a preliminary sketch of the upcoming video universe and its sources of inspiration. Once this board is approved, the motion designer can create the storyboard that will guide the creation process.

Creating videos, animations, and digital visual elements

The core of a motion designer's job is creating impactful visual effects and videos. To do this, the professional adheres to the storyboard they developed. They translate the client's concepts into graphic productions, combining skills in 2D and 3D animation, typography, special effects (VFX), and sound effects.

Artistic project management and collaboration with technical teams

A motion designer is capable of working independently on a project. However, they may also be part of a creative team. In this case, the motion designer collaborates with graphic designers, illustrators, as well as web developers or 3D animators. As the storyboard creator, they lead the project in agreement with the art director.

What qualities are needed to become a motion designer?

The multimedia content creator is, naturally, an artist at heart. Passionate about drawing, they excel in animation and digital creation. The motion designer is meticulous and possesses strong communication skills.

Creativity, attention to detail, and excellent artistic knowledge

As a professional in visual creation, the motion designer uses their imagination to produce attractive content. They draw from their artistic knowledge but always stay attuned to new trends in motion design. Reflecting the client's project, they ensure their work is impeccable both technically and artistically.

Proficiency in graphic and motion design software

The role of a motion designer requires in-depth knowledge of numerous digital creation software and tools:

• Motion design software: Adobe After Effects, Adobe Animate, Blender, etc.;
• Digital painting and graphic design tools: Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop.

Rigor, interpersonal skills, and excellent communication abilities

When working alone, the motion graphic designer must communicate with the client. They need to understand the concepts presented to them. If working as part of a team, the professional must effectively convey their ideas. In all cases, meeting deadlines is crucial.

What is the salary of a motion designer?

For an entry-level position, a motion designer’s salary easily reaches €2,200 gross per month. A senior profile can earn up to €4,000 gross per month, or even more if highly reputed. As a freelancer, a motion designer can earn up to €6,000 gross per month depending on their specializations. After a few years, motion designers may progress to project manager or art director positions.

Where can a motion designer work?

Motion designers are usually employed by creative studios or communication agencies. There are also many job opportunities in the audiovisual production sector. Finally, they can join a web agency or work as a freelancer. In the latter case, it is advisable to have an excellent portfolio.

Training to become a motion designer at LISAA

After high school, you can pursue motion design training at L'institut Supérieur des Arts Appliqués. Available in Paris and Rennes, the Bachelor in Motion Design at LISAA trains you for the profession in three years. You can then enhance your professional skills with our Master's in Artistic Direction/Motion 3D. Note that all our courses are accessible outside of Parcoursup!

The LISAA Bachelor in Motion Design allows you to obtain a level 6 diploma from the RNCP (National Directory of Professional Certifications). You will learn to decipher and understand the details of a brief. You will also discover how to create a graphic project from A to Z. Finally, this training will help you master motion design software. You will complete an internship in a professional environment and undertake a personal project. This Motion Design course has a professional integration rate of 86% within 6 months.