Filmed video or animated video - when is what suitable?
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When it comes to producing educational or informational films, commissioners, producers and educators are faced with an important decision: should they choose animated film or traditional filmed film? The choice is particularly critical when the content to be presented is complex, expensive or difficult to film.
In this article, we will highlight the unique benefits and challenges of each format, focusing on the situations where animated film may be the most appropriate choice.
2D and 3D animated films - what are they?
Animated film, also known as an 'animation', is a film technique where images are created to give the illusion of movement. It can be in the form of traditional hand drawing (cartoon), computer-generated graphics or a combination of the two. Animation has been around for over a hundred years and has evolved into a popular art form and entertainment medium worldwide. The two techniques most widely used in commercial film today are 2D or 3D animation.
2D animated film
2D animation is one of the oldest forms of animation and has its roots in traditional cartoons. In this type of animation, characters, backgrounds and objects are created on a two-dimensional surface. This is usually done by drawing each image or 'frame' by hand or generating it digitally. The technique has evolved over time but retains its stylized and imaginative aesthetic, giving it a unique charm that many people appreciate.
When it comes to software used to create 2D animations, Adobe Animate is one of the most popular. Formerly known as Flash, Adobe Animate is used both for creating simple web animations and for more complex video projects. Adobe After Effects is also an important tool, especially for adding special effects and composition to 2D animations. Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are often used in the design phase to create and edit characters and backgrounds before they are animated.
Besides traditional films and TV series, 2D animation has also found a niche in B2B and web marketing through the creation of so-called "explainer videos". These are short animated films that explain a company's product or service in a simple and easy-to-understand way. They are often used on company websites or social media to communicate complex information quickly and effectively.
Examples of films and TV series where 2D animation is commonly used include classic cartoons, such as Disney films like 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' and 'The Lion King', as well as modern animated series like 'Rick and Morty' and 'The Simpsons'. This form of animation is also popular in other parts of the world, such as in Japanese anime with famous works like 'Spirited Away' and 'My Neighbor Totoro'. Whatever the cultural background, 2D animation continues to be a beloved and important part of the film and TV landscape.
3D animated film
3D animated film is a newer form of animation compared to its 2D counterpart. In 3D animation, characters and environments are created in a three-dimensional digital space, providing a sense of depth and realism that is difficult to achieve with 2D techniques. This form has become increasingly popular since the late 20th century and is now used in everything from blockbuster movies to video games and virtual reality.
When it comes to software used for 3D animation, Autodesk Maya and Blender are two of the most prominent tools. Maya is known for its powerful functionality and is often used in large movie productions, while Blender is a free alternative that has gained popularity for its flexibility and ease of use. Adobe After Effects is also used in 3D animation, especially for compositing and special effects, and programs like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator can be used for texturing and design elements.
As well as being used in the entertainment industry, 3D animation has also become increasingly popular in B2B and web marketing, particularly for creating 'explainer videos'. As with 2D animation, these short films are designed to explain a company's product or service in a simple and easy-to-understand way, but with the added dimension of depth and realism that 3D technology can offer.
Examples of films where 3D is commonplace include Pixar classics such as 'Toy Story' and 'Finding Nemo', as well as other blockbuster productions such as 'Avatar' and 'Frozen'. This technology has also become a standard in the video game industry, with titles such as 'The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild' and 'Red Dead Redemption 2' using the technology to create immersive worlds.
In conclusion, 3D animated film has not only revolutionized the film and TV industry, but has also found applications in marketing and other media forms, making it a versatile and indispensable part of today's digital landscape.
Advantages of animated film
Animation offers a range of benefits that make it particularly suitable for education and information projects. Below we explore some of these benefits in detail:
Overcoming limitations: Filming certain subjects can be challenging due to space constraints or technical complexities. Animation eliminates these obstacles by being able to bring any concept to life without restrictions. This is particularly useful in educational contexts where it can be difficult to physically demonstrate certain phenomena or processes.
Cost-effective solution: Traditional film production requires extensive planning and resources, which can strain budgets. With an efficient workflow and in-house capabilities, you can enjoy high-quality animations at competitive prices. No more budget overruns while delivering exceptional results!
Unleashing creativity: Animated videos open up endless creative possibilities. This means you have full control over how characters interact, capture attention and convey complex ideas. Using this flexibility makes your message even more impactful and memorable.
Visualize abstract concepts: Educational content often involves explaining complex theories. Animation makes this easier than ever before. Its ability to break down complicated topics allows viewers to quickly understand information, making it easier to grasp difficult-to-understand concepts.
Time efficiency: Time plays an important role in every project. Animation speeds up the production process. Well-established processes, a dedicated team and state-of-the-art equipment ensure fast delivery without compromising on quality. Say goodbye to long waiting times; get ready for faster delivery times!
Animated films offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for educational and informational films. From overcoming physical and budgetary constraints to unlocking creative possibilities and streamlining production, animation is a powerful tool for conveying complex information in an accessible and engaging way.
Disadvantages of animated films
Despite the many benefits of animation, there are also some limitations and challenges that can affect its effectiveness in educational and information environments. Here are some of these:
Lack of Realism: Animation can sometimes lack the realism that live-action film offers. This can be a disadvantage when trying to convey topics that require a more realistic portrayal to be believable or effective.
Cost and Time for High Quality Animation: While animation can be cost-effective for some projects, high quality animation can be both time consuming and expensive. Specialized animation tools and expertise can also add additional costs.
Technical limitations: Animation requires technical expertise and access to specialized software. If you don't have the necessary resources or skills, this can be a significant disadvantage.
Risk of Exaggeration or Simplification: The creative freedom of animation can sometimes lead to exaggeration or simplification of complex topics. This can cause important information to be lost or misunderstood.
Audience limitations: Although animation is often considered universally appealing, some audiences may prefer more traditional or realistic representations of information. This may limit the effectiveness of animation in some educational contexts.
Animated film offers many advantages, but it is important to carefully consider its potential disadvantages in the context of your specific project. From costs and technical limitations to risks of exaggeration and audience limitations, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision to use animation in educational and informational films.
Advantages of filmed videos
Filmed film, or live-action, has its own unique advantages that make it a powerful tool in educational and information environments. Here are some of these:
Realism and Authenticity: One of the main advantages of film is its ability to convey realism. This can be particularly important in educational contexts where a realistic portrayal can reinforce the message and make it more convincing.
Human Interaction and Emotion: Live-action film can capture the nuances of human interaction and emotion in a way that is difficult to achieve with animation. This can be valuable when trying to convey complex human relationships or emotional aspects of a subject.
No Technical Expertise Required: Unlike animation, which often requires specialized software and technical knowledge, filmed video can often be produced with simpler means. This makes it accessible to a wider group of content creators.
Direct and Immediate: Filmed videos can be produced quickly and can often be distributed almost immediately after shooting. This can be an advantage in educational contexts where time-sensitive information needs to be conveyed.
Opportunity for In-depth Interviews and Reportage: Live-action film makes it possible to include interviews and reportage that can provide depth and context to the topic at hand. This can be difficult to achieve with animation without losing authenticity.
Filmed film offers a number of advantages that make it an effective tool in education and information projects. From its ability to convey realism and emotion to its accessibility and speed, live action has its own unique strengths that complement the benefits that animation can also offer. As always, it is important to carefully consider which medium best suits your specific project and objectives.
Disadvantages of filmed videos
Although filmed video has many benefits, there are also challenges and limitations that can affect its effectiveness in educational and information environments. Here are some of these:
Logistical and financial constraints: Filming can often be expensive and logistically complicated to produce. It can require everything from actors and crew to locations and permits, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Limitations in Creative Freedom: Unlike animation, where almost anything is possible, filmed films have physical and practical limitations. This can be a disadvantage when trying to visualize abstract or complex concepts.
Sensitivity to Errors and Mistakes: Because filmed videos often involve real people and settings, there is a greater risk of unforeseen errors or mistakes that could affect the quality or credibility of the production.
Time pressure: Unlike animation, where elements can be adjusted and refined over time, filmed videos can be time sensitive. This can be a disadvantage if you need to make changes or adjustments after the recording has been completed.
Audience limitations: Filmed film can sometimes be less universally appealing than animation, especially for younger audiences or international audiences who may find it difficult to relate to cultural or ethnic specific elements of the film.
While filmed video offers many advantages, including realism and the ability to convey human emotions, it is important to be aware of its limitations and challenges. From logistical and financial obstacles to limitations in creative freedom and time pressure, it is important to carefully consider these aspects when choosing the most appropriate medium for your educational or informational project.
Checklist for choosing between animated and filmed videos
Choosing the right format for your educational or informational video can be a complex process with many variables to consider. This checklist is designed to help you quickly and systematically evaluate the main factors that can influence your decision.
Follow the steps below to use the checklist:
General: Start by answering the general questions to get an overview of the project's purpose, target group, budget and timeframe.
Animated Film vs. Filmed Film: Go through each section and check off the points that are most relevant to your project. This will help you identify the strengths and weaknesses of each format in relation to your specific needs.
Discussion: If possible, discuss the checklist with your team, producers or other stakeholders. Other perspectives may provide additional insights that can be valuable.
Conclusion: After going through the checklist, weigh up the ticked items to decide which format seems most suitable for your project.
By using this checklist, you can make a more informed choice and ensure that you take advantage of the unique benefits of the format you choose.
General
What is the purpose of the film? (Education, information, promotion, etc.)
What is the target audience for the video?
What is the budget for the project?
How much time do you have available for production?
Animated film
Is it important to visualize complex or abstract concepts?
If so, animation may be more appropriate.
Is it difficult or expensive to film what you need in real life?
If so, animation can be a cost-effective solution.
Are creative freedom and stylization important aspects of the project?
If so, animation offers more creative possibilities.
Do you have access to the technical resources and expertise required for animation?
If no, it could be a restriction.
Filmed Film
Are realism and authenticity important for the project?
If so, filmed film may be more appropriate.
Are human interaction and emotions key elements?
If so, filmed video can capture this more effectively.
Do you have access to the locations, actors and resources required for filming?
If no, it could be a restriction.
Is time-sensitive information or fast production a priority?
If so, filmed videos can be produced and distributed faster.
The combination of filmed film and animation may be the best "animated films".
Having explored the unique benefits and challenges of both animated and filmed films, it is worth mentioning that these two formats do not always have to be mutually exclusive. In some cases, a combination of the two can offer a 'best of both worlds' solution that leverages the strengths of each format.
For example, animation can be used to visualize complex concepts or abstract ideas within a filmed video, where realism and human interaction are also important. This can be particularly useful in educational contexts, where a realistic representation can be enhanced and complemented by animated illustrations or diagrams.
On the marketing side, a filmed product video can be complemented by animated graphics to clarify the features or benefits of the product. This creates a richer, more engaging experience that can be both informative and entertaining.
Technology has made it increasingly easy to integrate these two formats, and many modern tools, such as Adobe After Effects, now offer opportunities to combine live-action and animated elements in a seamless way.
So before you make your final choice, consider the possibility of using both animation and film in your project. It could prove to be a match made in heaven, giving you the best of both worlds and making your message even more effective and memorable.
Do you need help?
If you are faced with the choice between animated and filmed video for your next educational or informational project, why not take advantage of expertise? As a studio, we at Multiproduktion have the experience and tools to help you make the best possible choice. Whether you are interested in a purely animated film, a filmed production or an exciting combination of both, we can offer tailored solutions that meet your unique needs and goals.
Don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We look forward to helping you realize your vision and create a film that not only reaches your target audience, but also makes a lasting impression.