Many companies have long recognized the potential of explanatory videos: They are the most interesting solution when it comes to introducing a topic or getting to the heart of complex issues in an understandable way. Video animations are entertaining and attract attention. The areas of application are becoming more and more diverse: explanatory videos can be found on company websites and video portals, in the social media area, at trade fairs, in internal communication and in training courses.
But what actually makes a successful explainer video? The answer is: clever storytelling and creative animation. A lot has happened in the last few years, particularly with regard to the latter. What’s next? Which explainer video trends can we expect in 2017? We present the most exciting animation styles of the year.
1. Isometry
One trend that we (hopefully) won’t be able to avoid this year is the isometric animation style: With it, problems and difficult content can be presented very impressively and vividly. A trend that is becoming increasingly important in turbulent times. The special thing about isometrics: 3D objects can be displayed in a 2D world. So while you get a 3D effect, the isometric style is significantly less expensive than an equivalent 3D animation. It is often used to play with perspectives and to show situations and processes from a bird’s eye view, i.e. to provide an “all-round view”. The style is therefore particularly popular in the industrial sector and in general for technical topics.
2. Shadow figures
Explainer videos get an exciting twist with the shadow look. Details are indicated with the help of shadows, which makes the animation special. At a time when explainer animations are being used more and more, it is almost a necessary trend to present characters and objects in an innovative way. The style is high quality and the shadowy representation of people makes the video look interesting and well thought out. It forms a contrast to comic-like animation videos and provides a serious, somewhat more “grown-up” look.
3. Outlines
Reducing complex topics to the essentials – that works well with outlines. They have a high recognition value and offer countless possibilities to depict situations, interactions and objects. The advantages: Clear structures and a high-quality overall picture. This animation style can be found across a wide variety of industries and application areas and will be encountered even more frequently in 2017. The variants are diverse and the effect enormous!
4. White board
Another explainer video trend is definitely whiteboard animation. It offers exciting opportunities to explain a wide variety of content and we will certainly encounter it more frequently this year. In most cases, as the name suggests, a whiteboard serves as the background. In contrast to the sliding technique, with whiteboard animation the scenes, people and objects are either drawn directly by hand or they are animated themselves. This attracts attention and has a dynamic effect. However, the whiteboard as a background is not a must. A blackboard or drawing pad can also form the basis for this animation style. Correspondingly, felt-tip pens, markers, pencils, chalk or the like can be used as writing implements. As always, there are no limits to creativity here.
5. Abstract shapes
Playing with abstract shapes is also exciting. If you want to give your explainer video a little artistic touch, this trend is just right for you. This is not necessarily about the simplest possible presentation of information, but it can also be a little playful. The advantage: The viewer is surprised and finds himself in a different world. A wide variety of topics can be presented creatively and uniquely in this way.
It turns out that 2017 will be exciting in the area of explainer videos. The current trends make you want new animation styles and creative possibilities. Which of the 5 trends speaks to you the most? We create your individual explainer video style.
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