How to become a sought-after motion graphics designer in Malaysia

Motion graphics have become incredibly popular in recent years due to its visually appealing nature.

From social media feeds to the silver screen, these captivating creations have become a content marketer's secret weapon, effortlessly grabbing attention and leaving viewers craving for more.

Amidst this rising popularity, the demand for skilled motion graphic designers has never been greater. With their ability to bring ideas to life and create immersive visual experiences, these talented artists are at the forefront of this exciting industry.

Whether you're an aspiring designer seeking to unleash your creativity or a seasoned professional looking to stay ahead of the curve, mastering the art of motion graphics opens a world of endless possibilities.

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital media, honing your motion graphic skills can be a game-changer. By combining technical expertise with an artistic eye, you can craft compelling narratives, deliver impactful messages, and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

But before we get into this further, let’s take a breather… Not entirely sure what motion graphic content is? Check out our past article that gives a complete rundown on motion graphics.

(On another note, and for further inspiration, check out some of Brandripe’s recent motion graphics work for our client which would surely give you a better idea.)

But what do motion graphics designers actually do?

 
Find out all you need to know about becoming a motion graphics designer. Image: Tubik

Now that you have a solid understanding of what motion graphics entails, it's time to dive deeper into the world of professional motion graphics design.

Before you embark on this exciting career path, it's crucial to grasp the broader scope of the job and gain a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities involved. By familiarising yourself with the intricacies of the profession, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions and chart a successful trajectory.

In this section, we'll provide you with valuable insights into the job description of a professional motion graphics designer, shedding light on the skills, qualifications and creative expertise required to excel in this dynamic field.

So, let's take a closer look and ensure you're well-prepared for the exhilarating journey ahead as a motion graphics designer:

Typically, as a motion graphics designer, you will be responsible for the entire process of creating graphics and animations, both in two-dimensional and three-dimensional formats, from the initial concept to the final output.

It isn’t just about turning an idea into a content output, though. Expect to lead other duties as well, such as:

• Meeting with clients to address their needs
• Selecting audio, visuals, typography, and other design elements

What skills does a motion graphics designer need to have?

A motion graphics designer needs a combination of technical and general skills to excel in their field. Here are some specific skills that are important for a motion graphics designer:

• Graphics design: Motion graphics is a form of graphics design in general, and you will need to at least have a foundation in graphics design in order to dabble in the more complex art of motion graphics design.
• Visual storytelling: Being a graphics designer isn’t just about churning out beautiful illustrations and artwork at the end. To get there, you need to have an innate skill in understanding the main narrative and how to use animation and graphics to communicate those ideas and emotions.
• Motion and timing: Related to the above, understanding motion and timing is crucial in motion graphics. Designers should have a good sense of movement, pacing, and rhythm to create animations that flow smoothly and convey the desired message effectively.
• Knowledge of video editing: Motion graphics often involve integrating animations with video footage. Familiarity with video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro is advantageous for seamlessly blending motion graphics with video content.
• 3D Skills: While not always necessary, having knowledge of 3D software can be advantageous for creating three-dimensional elements, adding depth to animations, or incorporating 3D effects.

Becoming a motion graphics designer

Being versatile is the key to building a solid portfolio as a graphics designer, and that comes with the need to be able to produce trending content formats that speak to your target audiences. Here are our top tips on how you can become a sought-after motion graphics designer in the competitive Malaysian creative landscape.

1. First things first, get the right education

 Certifications that will qualify you as a motion graphics designer will be incredibly helpful. Image: CTSNYC

While real-life experiences really sharpen your skills, it’s important to have the right fundamentals. There are courses and certifications available online, with some being free tools. However, if you are starting out, consider investing in getting a degree in the field and building your expertise.

Malaysia’s on a strong growth trajectory in the fields of creative and communications expertise, given the strong demands from the market.

Check out industry-leading universities catering to creative design such as Multimedia University (MMU) which offers more than 10 different programmes under its Faculty of Creative Multimedia, or programmes offered by The One Academy – one of Malaysia’s renowned art and design institutions.

2. Build your portfolio

 
A portfolio of your best works should be at hand. Image: Freepik

There’s always a bit of chicken-and-egg rhetoric when it comes to getting experience and building experience in the first place. Don’t let starting out or your inexperience become an obstacle – there are plenty of online marketplaces and platforms such as Freelancer.com on which you can offer basic creative work services as a freelancer to start off.

This will help you hone your skills in practice and build a credible portfolio and client base at the same time.

3. Get proficient in key software

 
A list of the key software related to motion graphic design. Image: Dreamstime

The main tool of the trade for a graphics designer is always the design software. Practice and develop proficiency in software such as Adobe After Effects, which is the bread and butter to your career as a motion graphics designer.

Ready to unlock your creative destiny? Join the Brandripe team!

 
Join the dynamic force of creatives at Brandripe today! Image: Brandripe

Are you looking to build a career as a motion graphics designer? Come be part of our team!

As a valued member of our team, you'll have the incredible opportunity to collaborate with renowned brands in Southeast Asia – pushing the boundaries of creativity and unleashing your true talent.

Our dynamic environment provides the perfect canvas for you to showcase your skills and make a lasting impact, and as a company that embraces innovation, there is no doubt that we will always encourage you to bring the latest creative design trends to life in every project you undertake.

At Brandripe, our core values of excellence, collaboration and passion drive everything we do. We believe in fostering a supportive and inspiring workplace where you can thrive and constantly evolve as a motion graphics professional, so come on, join our team and become part of our creative family!

Find out more about the Brandripe team and our values, and if you’re interested – just send us your resume here!