Being static, the Artboard can only represent the final scale and position of the various elements (Layout). Over the course of the animation the layout will evolve based on the content that is being supported. Proper layout of elements in motion is achieved via scale and position to balance and maintain surrounding "white space". This can be subjective so it is advisable to build animations with as much flexibility as possible in the event that revisions are requested.
Motion Home | Timing | Layout | Elements | Resources
General Guidelines
It is the shared responsibility of the Illustrator and Motion Designer to present the information in a way that supplements the lesson being given by the Faculty.
Begin sequence centered in the animation window when possible and build out from there.
Often elements are removed from the screen as a unit but some situations may require a “deconstruction” of the scene with the elements being removed accordingly.
We use 3 main screen sizes for our animations:
1/4 Screen
Used primarily for text and simple icons that represent main ideas.
2/3 Screen
Used for more complex graphics and sequences while still allowing for the faculty to be visible.
Full Screen
Used for more complex graphics that require the entire screen space.
Screen Transitions
Transitions from 1/4 to 2/3 to full screen and back
Screen Transitions.mp4Individual Elements
Most commonly, the various elements that eventually combine to make up a scene are introduced separately and may serve as “stand-alone” elements for some period of time. The Motion Designer is responsible for the scale and position of these elements as the scene is being built with the intent of drawing attention at the appropriate moment(s), usually centered in the animation window. Scale and positioning should evolve as individual elements are added. Be aware of too much or too little empty space.
Individual_Elements_A.mp4Individual_Elements_B.mp4Combined Elements
The aforementioned Individual Elements will eventually combine to complete the scene at the appropriate moment. The Illustrator generally determines the layout of these combined elements with their placement in the artboard but the Motion Designer has the freedom and responsibility to adjust the overall scale and position of these combined elements as needed.
Individual elements should, whenever possible, begin centered and move as new elements appear to avoid a lopsided layout. If defaulting to center position effects understanding of the content due to speed or other variables please use your best judgement.
Combining Elements_A.mp4Combining Elements_B.mp4Photography and Images
Ideally imagery should fill the screen as much as possible, whether it's full screen or partial screen. Use your best judgement to establish the best layout to support learning. No frames or extraneous elements are used here. Oversized images allow for subtle X and/or Y movement to increase interest.
Photos Misc.mp4Stills With Faculty.mp4B-roll
Ideally B-roll should be full screen as much as possible. Use your best judgement to establish the best layout to support learning.
B-Roll_Full_Screen.mp4Photo and B-roll use.mp4