Motion graphics are one of the most widely used — and most misunderstood — formats in business video. Many clients know they want "something animated" but aren't sure of the terminology. Others have seen motion graphics work brilliantly for a competitor and don't know what to ask for. This guide explains what motion graphics is, how it differs from other animation styles, and when it is the right choice for your brand.
Motion graphics bring graphic design elements to life through animation. Think animated text, moving icons, transitioning shapes, data visualisations that build on screen, and abstract visual elements — all combined with voiceover, music, and sound design to create an engaging video.
It is not the same as character animation (where illustrated characters move and interact), though the two are often used together. Motion graphics is more about information design — taking complex ideas and making them clear, visual, and dynamic.
Some familiar examples: the animated infographic that explains how a process works, the brand video with moving text and icons, the product explainer where features appear and animate as the voiceover describes them. All of these are motion graphics.
of all internet traffic now comes from video content — and motion graphics is one of the most versatile formats driving that demand for businesses.
The distinction matters when you are briefing a studio. Animation typically refers to the movement of characters or illustrated worlds — storytelling through moving images, in the tradition of film and cartoon. Motion graphics focuses on the animation of graphic design elements: text, shapes, icons, charts, and abstract visuals.
In practice, many effective business videos combine both. A motion graphics base with one or two animated characters adds personality without the full cost of a character animation production. Our guide to animated video vs live-action style content explores the broader format decision in more detail.
Motion graphics are particularly well suited to:
Motion graphics are not always the answer. If your brand relies heavily on personal trust and human connection — think healthcare, legal advice, or high-end professional services — live-action style content using real faces may be more persuasive. And for physical products with strong visual appeal, showing the product in use will almost always outperform an illustrated equivalent.
That said, even in these cases, motion graphics can play a supporting role — adding data, captions, and animated call-outs to live-action footage to create a hybrid format that combines the best of both.
A bespoke 60-second motion graphics video in the UK typically costs between £1,000 and £5,000, depending on complexity, the level of customisation, and whether scripting and voiceover are included. Template-based motion graphics can cost significantly less but offer limited brand differentiation. Our guide to what makes a good explainer video covers the full picture.
Not sure if motion graphics is right for your project? Get in touch and we'll help you work out the best format for your message, your audience, and your budget. No commitment — just an honest conversation.
Motion graphics bring graphic design elements to life through animation. It includes animated text, icons, shapes, data visualisations, and abstract visual elements — combined with voiceover, music, and sound design to create engaging video content.
Animation typically refers to the movement of characters or illustrated worlds — storytelling through moving images. Motion graphics focuses on the animation of graphic design elements: text, shapes, icons, and data. In practice, many videos combine both.
Motion graphics is particularly effective for: explaining software or digital products, visualising data or processes, creating brand content without filming, making text-heavy information engaging, and producing content that needs to stay current without costly reshoots.
A bespoke 60-second motion graphics video in the UK typically costs between £1,000 and £5,000, depending on complexity and whether scripting and voiceover are included. Template-based motion graphics can cost significantly less but offer limited brand differentiation.
Yes — hybrid videos that combine motion graphics with live-action footage or professional stock footage are increasingly popular. They give you the authenticity of real-world imagery alongside the clarity that motion graphics brings to complex messages.
Tell us what you need and we'll come back with honest advice, clear timelines, and fixed pricing.
Get in touch →