Mograph Cross-Training

Working in the motion graphics field requires an understanding of several different areas and disciplines. While this is somewhat dependent on the exact type of work you do (or want to do), in general, you can be expected to pull technique and style from a wide array of fields that may include film production, visual effects, traditional animation and graphic design.

This is certainly not an exhaustive list, but it helps give us the sense that one is never done learning in this field. While new software titles and techniques are always good to learn, those are pretty well documented on the internet. What I would like to promote is the idea of cross-training for motion graphics artists.

Some fields are obvious tangents to the motion graphics field, such as the ones listed above. For example, it's very clear that we can learn a lot about animation fundamentals from watching old Tom & Jerry cartoons and looking at the work of classic animation greats like Tex Avery and Chuck Jones. It's also pretty obvious that big blockbuster movies, chock full of visual effects are important to watch if you are more interested in doing work for feature films.

What I'm talking about is the stuff you can learn from the not-so-obvious tangential arts. What can we learn about movement from watching the work of choreographers and dancers? What kind of lessons can you pick up about working with type by looking at food packaging? What can you learn about tempo and timing from studying orchestral conductors. What kinds of patterns might you get introduced to from looking at fashion magazines and designers?

 I firmly believe that studying or at least becoming familiar with these alternative areas of the arts can not only be very informative for growing your skills, but can also be incredibly inspiring when you hit a creative block.

If you're constantly looking at other motion graphics work for inspiration, its likely that you're just going to end up re-creating something that has already been done. But if you want to come up with an innovative solution, I believe that looking at other areas of arts are likely to be very beneficial.