2D Animations can come in different styles and use many different techniques. There can’t always be a ‘one size fits all’ approach to 2D animation styles as each level helps to cater to different goals.

 

In this blog we’re breaking down the difference between specifically 2D animation levels as well as the value in each level to give you a head-start on your next Animation project.

 

 

What is an Animation Level?

 

2D Animation Levels are the measure of detail, complexity and the nature of movement within an animated Video. Essentially, the higher the Animation Level, the more time it takes to create and animate. Generally speaking, the higher the 2D Animation level, the higher the price point.

 

With that said the higher the animation level and price point does not necessarily translate to the best animation style choice for you and your video project.

 

The key questions to ask yourself to determine the most suitable 2D Animation level are:

  • Who will be viewing my Animation?
  • What do I want to communicate through this Animation?
  • What is my budget?

 

You can use our handy Video Brief template to compile this information.

 

At Studio Orange we have created three variations of 2D Animation levels to help understand the options available to you as well as help cater to different style and budget requirements.

 

Basic 2D Animation

 

Our first Animation level is Basic. Basic 2D Animation is a great choice if you are wanting to achieve a minimalist style.

 

Basic 2D animation includes:

  • icon based motion graphics
  • animated typography
  • an ‘infographic’ style

 

Since a Basic 2D animation level it is more simplistic in nature, it generally takes a lot less time to produce. Basic 2D animation is a suitable choice if you’re after a quicker turnover for a project, your goal is to simplify a complex idea or if you are wanting to achieve a lower end budget.

 

Below is an example of Basic 2D animation that we created for HIF Australia.

 

 

Standard 2D Animation

 

Standard animation is our most commonly chosen 2D Animation level. It is ideal for storytelling, adding more detail where necessary and invoking certain emotions within the viewer through added visual aid.

 

Standard 2D animation includes:

  • Backgrounds
  • Characters
  • Dynamic movement
  • More details in backgrounds
  • Depth of Field
  • Textures

 

Standard 2D Animation is a perfect middle-ground if you are unsure of what animation level might suit you.  It allows a lot of flexibility when it comes to stylistic options as it include more time to be spent on the animation itself. This time can be used to add more in dynamic movement to the animations and by adding more depth/detail to the animation scenes. It helps bring more life and creativity into the animation, whilst still being able to maintain a minimalist approach.

 

Click on the image below to watch an example of Standard 2D animation that we created for Western Power.

 

 

 

 

Advanced 2D Animation

 

Advanced Animation is a Premium Animation Level choice. Advanced Animation is a good option if you are wanting to add more stylistic elements and flair to your animation; helping to build your overall brand style and impact.

 

Advanced 2D animation includes:

  • More complex Character Animation 
  • Camera Movements
  • Textures in scenes
  • Faux 3D elements
  • Dynamic movements
  • Scene Transitions
  • Depth of Field

 

Advanced animation is an awesome choice if you want an animation that will ‘pack a punch’ and leave your viewer with a lasting impression of your brand, style and overall message.

 

Click on the image below to watch an example of Advanced 2D animation that we created for Emyria.

 

 

 

A Visual Guide of Animation Levels

 

Doing what we do, we know that describing Animation levels is best done through a visual aid. That’s why we’ve put together a visual representation of the three differing style levels. Watch the video below to get a better understanding of the difference in the 2D Animation levels we offer.

 

 

Choosing a 2D Animation level is an integral part of the Pre-Production process of a Video Project as It helps to set the tone and overall mood of the video itself. This may have been the first time you’ve heard about 2D Animation styles, so we hope that this blog has given you some insight into the variations that 2D Animation can have and how you can utilise each differently.

 

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We are a Video Production company located in Perth and Melbourne, Australia. If you need help gauging what might be the best 2D Animation level for your next video project, give us a shout!