Are you looking for a creative and effective way to explain your products or services to your target audience? Look no further than explainer videos and, more specifically, animated explainer videos. These short, engaging videos are becoming increasingly popular in the world of marketing and can help businesses of all sizes effectively communicate their message to potential customers. In this article, we will explore the benefits of explainer videos, the differences between live-action and animated explainer videos, and why you should consider creating an animated explainer video for your business.
What Are Explainer Videos?
An explainer video is a short video, typically between one and three minutes in length, that explains a product, service, or idea simply and engagingly. These videos can be created using various techniques, including live-action footage, animation, and motion graphics. An explainer video aims to simplify complex concepts and make them easy to understand for the target audience.
Benefits of Explainer Videos
Explainer videos have numerous benefits for businesses looking to promote their products or services. Some of the key benefits include:
- Increased engagement:Â Videos are more engaging than text-based content, making them an effective way to capture and hold the attention of your target audience.
- Improved conversion rates:Â Studies have shown that explainer videos can increase conversion rates by up to 80%.
- Increased brand awareness:Â Explainer videos can help raise awareness of your brand and products among your target audience.
- Improved SEO:Â Videos can improve your website’s search engine rankings, making it easier for potential customers to find you online.
Animated Explainer Videos vs. Live-Action Explainer Videos
When creating an explainer video, businesses have two main options: animated or live-action. While both types of videos can be effective, there are some key differences between the two.
Animated Explainer Videos
Animated explainer videos are created using animation techniques, such as 2D or 3D animation, motion graphics, or whiteboard animation. These videos can be more visually appealing and can be used to simplify complex concepts in a fun and engaging way. They are also more versatile than live-action videos, as they can be used to create characters, settings, and environments that would be difficult or impossible to film in real life.
Live-Action Explainer Videos
Live-action explainer videos are created using real people, props, and settings. These videos can be more realistic and help establish a sense of trust and credibility with the target audience. They are also ideal for demonstrating real-life situations and scenarios. However, live-action videos can be more costly and time-consuming than animated videos.
Why Choose Animated Explainer Videos?
While both animated and live-action explainer videos have their benefits, there are several reasons why you may want to consider creating an animated explainer video for your business:
- Cost-effective:Â Animated explainer videos can be more cost-effective than live-action videos, as they don’t require actors, props, or sets.
- More engaging:Â Animated explainer videos are more engaging than text-based content and can be used to tell a story or create a character that resonates with the target audience.
- Easier to update:Â Animated explainer videos can be easily updated or revised as needed without the need to reshoot footage or hire new actors.
- Versatile:Â Animated explainer videos can simplify complex concepts, demonstrate products or services, or showcase brand personality.
How to Create an Animated Explainer Video
If you’re considering creating an animated explainer video for your business, here are some tips to help you get started:
Step 1: Define Your Audience and Message
The first step in creating an animated explainer video is to define your target audience and the key message you want to communicate. Think about your audience, their pain points, and how your product or service can help solve their problems. Use this information to craft a clear and concise message that resonates with your audience.
Step 2: Write a Script
Once you clearly understand your audience and message, it’s time to write a script for your animated explainer video. Keep your script short and to the point, focusing on the key benefits of your product or service. Use clear, simple language and avoid technical jargon or industry-specific terms that may confuse your audience.
Step 3: Choose an Animation Style
There are several different animation styles to choose from when creating an animated explainer video, including 2D animation, 3D animation, motion graphics, and whiteboard animation. Consider your audience and the message you want to convey when choosing an animation style, as each style has strengths and weaknesses.
Step 4: Create a Storyboard
Once you have your script and animation style, it’s time to create a storyboard. A storyboard is a visual representation of your video, showing each scene and how it will be animated. This is an important step in the process, as it allows you to make any necessary changes before moving on to the animation phase.
Step 5: Record a Voiceover
Next, record a voiceover for your animated explainer video. This can be done in-house or outsourced to a professional voiceover artist. Make sure the voiceover is clear and easy to understand and matches the tone and style of your video.
Step 6: Create the Animation
Now it’s time to create the animation for your explainer video. This can be done using animation software like Adobe After Effects or Toon Boom Harmony. Work closely with your famous animator to ensure the animation matches your storyboard and script.
Step 7: Add Music and Sound Effects
Finally, add music and sound effects to your animated explainer video. This can enhance the overall impact of your video and make it more engaging for your audience. Choose music and sound effects that match the tone and style of your video, and make sure they don’t overpower the voiceover.
Conclusion
Animated explainer videos are a powerful tool for businesses looking to effectively communicate their message to their target audience. They are cost-effective, engaging, versatile and can help improve conversion rates and brand awareness. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a high-quality animated explainer video that effectively communicates your message and resonates with your audience.
FAQs
1. How long should an animated explainer video be? |
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Animated explainer videos should typically be between one and three minutes in length, depending on the complexity of the message. |
2. How much does it cost to create an animated explainer video? |
The cost of creating an animated explainer video can vary widely depending on factors such as animation style, length, and complexity. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. |
3. What makes an effective animated explainer video? |
An effective animated explainer video is clear, concise, and engaging. It should focus on the key benefits of your product or service, and use simple language and visuals to convey your message. |
4. Can I update or revise my animated explainer video? |
Yes, one of the benefits of animated explainer videos is that they can be easily updated or revised as needed, without the need to reshoot footage or hire new actors. |
5. How do I promote my animated explainer video? |
Promoting your animated explainer video can be done through various channels such as social media, email marketing, and embedding it on your website. You can also use paid advertising channels such as YouTube ads, Facebook ads, or Google AdWords to reach a larger audience. |
6. Can I create an animated explainer video myself? |
Yes, it is possible to create an animated explainer video yourself using animation software and other tools. However, creating a high-quality video that effectively communicates your message can be challenging, so it may be worth considering outsourcing the project to a professional. |
7. How do I measure the success of my animated explainer video? |
The success of your animated explainer video can be measured through various metrics such as view count, engagement rate, and conversion rate. Set clear goals and track your metrics to determine the effectiveness of your video and make any necessary adjustments. |
8. What industries can benefit from animated explainer videos? |
Animated explainer videos can benefit a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, and education. Any business that wants to effectively communicate their message to their target audience can benefit from an animated explainer video. |
9. Can I use my animated explainer video for different purposes? |
Yes, an animated explainer video can be repurposed for various purposes such as social media posts, email campaigns, and website content. This can help maximize the impact of your video and reach a larger audience. |