The Ultimate Guide to Animation Styles: Understanding the Art of Motion

1. Traditional Animation

Traditional animation, the first style of animation, gained prominence in the late 19th century with significant contributions from Emil Reynaud, who demonstrated moving drawings using his praxinoscope in 1877.

However, traditional animation as a technique evolved gradually over time, with numerous inventors and artists refining the process. It involves creating each frame manually using a pencil and paper, a time-consuming but highly rewarding process.

The first series of Tom and Jerry cartoons, created over 70 years ago, were produced using these manual methods.

Despite the rise of digital animation, traditional animation remains influential. It has paved the way for many other styles discussed in this article, ensuring its lasting impact on the world of animation.

Before we move on, you can learn more about this style from the following sources.

Useful resources on traditional animation

• How to Make Animated Films: Tony White’s Masterclass Course on the Traditional Principles of Animation by Tony White, 2013
• Animation from Pencils to Pixels: Classical Techniques for the Digital Animator by Tony White, 2012

2. 2D Animation

2D animation doesn’t need much introduction – just think of the first cartoons by Walt Disney.

What makes 2D animation unique is its simplicity, with images having only two dimensions: width and height.

It is believed that the first animated 2D cartoon was created in 1906. However, the style gained popularity much later, thanks to Walt Disney's work. Today, 2D animation is one of the most popular and sought-after types of animation. It is widely used for advertising, promotional videos, how-to videos, explainer videos, and branded cartoons.

Examples Of 2D Animation

Books and resources to learn 2D Animation

• 2D Animation: Animal Walk Cycles by Dermot O’ Connor, 2017
• Character Animation: 2D Skills for Better 3D by Steve Roberts, 2012
• Sketch-Based Skeleton-Driven 2D Animation and Motion Capture by Junjun Pan, Jian J. Zhang, 2011

3. 3D Animation

The first attempts to create a three-dimensional image were made in 1961, with the first-ever animated 3D clip appearing in 1972.

This clip, an animated hand, marked a major breakthrough in the history of 3D animation and laid the groundwork for future developments. Since then, there have been significant advancements in 3D animation technology and techniques.

Yes, while this is simply the animated hand of the video's creator, it marked a significant breakthrough in the history of this style. Interestingly, this video inadvertently set the path for using 3D animation in various fields, such as medical imaging.

Modern developments have revolutionized 3D animation. Real-time rendering in game engines like Unreal Engine has made the creation of high-quality, interactive animations more accessible. Additionally, advancements in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have expanded the applications of 3D animation, allowing for immersive experiences in fields such as medicine, architecture, advertising, and entertainment.

Today, 3D animation is used extensively in various industries:

• Medicine: To visually demonstrate the workings of organs and systems or to show the effects of a drug on the body.

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• Architecture: To accurately visualize buildings under construction.
• Production: For example, Porsche uses 3D models combined with augmented reality to develop unique car designs.
• Advertising: To showcase how products work or appear from the inside.
• Entertainment: In full-length animated films for both entertainment and marketing.

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Examples Of 3D Animation

Sources on 3d animaiton

• 3D Animation: From Models to Movies by Adam Watkins, 2001
• 3D for the Web: Interactive 3D Animation Using 3ds Max, Flash, and Director by Carol MacGillivray, Anthony Head, 2005
• Animated Expressions: Expressive Style in 3D Computer Graphic Narrative Animation, 2009

4. Typography Animation

The origins of kinetic typography can be traced back to 1899, with the creation of an ad featuring moving letters in France. However, it gained significant popularity 60 years later, largely due to Alfred Hitchcock's innovative use of animated text in his films. This historical perspective highlights the long-standing influence of kinetic typography.

In modern times, kinetic typography has become an essential tool in marketing and social media. Advanced software like Adobe After Effects allows designers to create dynamic text animations that captivate audiences and convey information effectively. This style is particularly useful for presenting statistics, enhancing e-learning content, and training employees, providing a visually engaging alternative to traditional lectures.

Examples Of Typography Animation

Sources on typography animation

• After Effects Guru: Animating Typography, 2014
• Typography and Motion Graphics: The ‘Reading-Image’ by Michael Betancourt, 2018
• Tutorial: Kinetic Typography in After Effects by School of Motion

5. Motion Graphics

Motion design, which originated in 1960, has blossomed into one of the most popular animation techniques in video and content marketing. You can see its influence everywhere. From creating movie and game screensavers to crafting animated advertising and promotional videos, motion design is integral. It’s also used in explainer, brand, and storytelling videos, making it a nearly universal technique capable of tackling almost any marketing task.

For instance, take a look at the Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell YouTube channel. They use short videos to break down some of the most popular scientific questions with motion graphics.

Motion Graphics Video Examples

Useful Resources on Motion Graphics

• How To Become A Motion Graphis Designer
• The Best Motion Graphis Studios and Companies
• Motion Graphics: Graphic Design for Broadcast and Film by Steve Curran, 2000
• The Art and Science of Digital Compositing: Techniques for Visual Effects, Animation and Motion Graphics by Ron Brinkmann, 2008

6. Flipbook Animation

This is one of the original techniques where each plot element is drawn on separate pages of a notebook. Once the drawing is complete, the pages are flipped quickly to create a “manual video” due to the rapid frame change. In essence, flipbook animation is reminiscent of a praxinoscope – a device for demonstrating moving pictures. While flipbook animation may not be ideal for marketing directly, it excels in quick storytelling and entertainment for the target audience. For a deeper dive, here’s a video with plenty of great examples.

Examples Of Flipbook Animation

Sources on flipbook animation

• Flipping Out: The Art of Flip Book Animation: Learn to Illustrate & Create Your Own Animated Flip Books Step by Step by David Hurtado, 2016
• The Animation Bible: A Guide to Everything–from Flipbooks to Flash by Maureen Furniss, 2008

7. Stop Motion Animation

Stop motion is one of the most popular and historically significant animation techniques. The first attempts at this type of animation were made over 150 years ago. Essentially, this technique involves taking multiple photos while gradually moving objects within the composition. When these photos are combined, they create a seamless video clip. One major advantage of stop motion is that it doesn't require expensive equipment or facilities, making it accessible to many.

Examples Of Stop Motion Animation

Sources on stop motion animation

• Stop Motion Animation: How to Make and Share Creative Videos by Melvyn Ternan, 2013
• The Advanced Art of Stop-Motion Animation by Kenneth A. Priebe, 2011
• Stop Motion Filmmaking: The Complete Guide to Fabrication and Animation by Christopher Walsh, 2019

8. Mechanical Animation

Mechanical animation showcases the inner workings of complex devices with mathematical precision. Often combined with 3D animation, it offers maximum visualization.

This technique is especially popular in technical equipment production, as it allows for changes to undeveloped products, significantly saving money by reducing errors.

Here's how it looks: When paired with a voiceover, a mechanical animation video makes an excellent explainer video.

Examples Of Stop Mechanical Animation

Resources On Mechanical Animation

• Physics for Flash Games, Animation, and Simulations by Adrian Dobre, 2012
• Illustrating How Mechanical Assemblies Work by Niloy J. Mitra, 2010

9. Audio-Animatronics and Autonomatronics

In its simplest terms, animatronics are artificially controlled mechanisms that can resemble a robot, animal, or any other fantastical creature. Essentially, they can be remotely controlled to create the illusion of life.

Just like with other great styles, Walt Disney played a pivotal role in pushing this technology forward.

Let’s explore how animatronics bring magic to life at Disneyland, entertaining visitors with their lifelike movements and charm.

In cinema, this method comes into play when creating a completely fictional character or aiming to reduce production costs. Learn more about this topic:

Useful Resources

• Lecture Notes on AutonomatronicsTM: Simply, Enabling Audio-Animatronics to be Independently Responsive and Reactive to External Stimuli by Alfredo Medina Ayala
• Advances in New Technologies, Interactive Interfaces, and Communicabilityby Francisco V. Cipolla Ficarra, 2011

10. Chuckimation

This style was invented by the creators of the series Action League Now! It combines stop motion animation with fragments of real footage. A distinctive feature of this technique is that physical objects are thrown into the frame. While Chuckimation isn’t widespread, it’s more relevant to discuss object animation, where the movements of physical objects, like dolls, are animated. For instance, here is a practical example.

The most straightforward way to utilize this style is to promote a kids' toy store. For more details, here’s a book you can read.

The Encyclopedia of American Animated Television Shows by David Perlmutter, 2014

11. Puppetry Animation

Puppetry Animation, situated at the crossroads of puppet theater and 2D or even 3D animation, introduces puppet heroes into a digital environment. Although it's widely accepted that this style originated in 1960, some researchers argue that the first Puppetry Animation film was shown in 1906 at the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg.

This genre has flourished primarily due to the efforts of Russian animators. Notably, Soyuzmultfilm Studio has produced a vast number of cartoons in this style over its impressive 85-year history. Here is one of the most renowned examples.

When it comes to marketing applications, this style works wonderfully for both children's and adult's cartoons, offering easily identifiable heroes and creative storytelling.

Useful Resources

• 3D Puppetry: A Kinect-based Interface for 3D Animation by Robert T. Held, 2012
• Puppetry, Puppet Animation and the Digital Age by Rolf Giesen, 2018

12. Zoetrope Animation

The origins of this animation style trace all the way back to 180 BC! At the core of this technology is a device called a zoetrope. Imagine a drum without a cover, featuring special slots and a ribbon adorned with drawings inside. As the drum rotates, these drawings create a continuous animation thanks to the phenomenon of persistence of vision.

While this method is rarely used in marketing due to the need for a physical zoetrope, it's fascinating to see it in action. You can witness this captivating technique at Disneyland in California.

Examples Of Zoetrope Animation

Useful Resources

• Animation: Animation, Zoetrope, Adult Animation, History of Animation, List of Music Videos Using Animation, Educational Animation, 2010

13. Cut-out Animation

Cut-out animation is a unique form of stop-motion. This technique features characters crafted from paper, cardboard, or photographs, which are then superimposed to create the illusion of movement. Originating in the 18th century during the popularity of shadow theaters, this style has evolved significantly. Today, videos in this genre are produced using special software, with paper characters often replaced by scanned prototypes. Ideal for explainer videos and storytelling, cut-out animation has been utilized in popular TV series like Archer.

Further materials to study this style

• Cut-Out Animation Using Magnet Motion by Srinivas Anumasa, 2013
• The Art of Stop-Motion Animation by Ken A. Priebe, 2006

14. Sand Animation

Sand animation is a versatile technique used for both animated cartoons and live shows. The concept is simple yet challenging to master: pouring sand onto a luminous surface to create a 2D image, or drawing directly with the sand. Invented in 1969, sand animation has primarily been used in live performances.

However, it can also be an effective storytelling tool in marketing, perfect for illustrating the evolution or development of a concept.

Check out Four Seasons by Vivaldi, beautifully complemented by sand animation.

More Resources on Sand Animation

• How to Draw with Sand: a Beginner's Guide by Winta Assefa

15. Paint-on-glass Animation

This animation technique is quite complex, which is one reason why it hasn't gained widespread popularity.

Drawing on glass as an animation method was introduced in 1976 by Canadian animator Carolyn Leaf. Notably, her short animated film “Street,” which employed this technique, earned an Oscar nomination.

The uniqueness of this style lies in the creation of each frame directly in front of the camera using glass and oil paints. Each frame is akin to a real animated painting, reminiscent of impressionist artistry, living only for a fraction of a second before transitioning to the next.

Examples of Paint-on-glass animation

Sources to find out more on paint-on-glass animation

• Paint‐on‐glass animation: the fellowship of digital paint and artisanal controlby Tom Van Laerhoven, 2011
• Fluid Frames: Experimental Animation with Sand, Clay, Paint, and Pixels by Corrie Francis Parks, 2020

16. Drawn-on-film Animation

Nowadays, this method of creating animations might seem either too outdated or uniquely original. Essentially, animation frames are crafted directly onto cinematic film, which can be either pre-sketched or completely blank. The first reference to this style dates back to 1912. Despite its unconventional nature, this approach is quite cost-effective as it doesn't require a camera or sophisticated software. Let’s take a look at the end result. This creation is by Caroline Leaf, whom we mentioned earlier.

Useful Resources on Drawn-on-film animation

• A study of drawn-on-film animation technique by digital production methodby Lee, Kwang-Hoon, 2016
• Experimental Filmmaking: Break the Machine by Kathryn Ramey, 2015

17. Experimental Animation

Experimental animation is like modern art – everyone interprets it differently and feels their own emotions.The main goal of experimental animation is to find new ways to convey important messages. Artists in this genre often come up with innovative methods. This movement began in the early 20th century, with many abstract artists shaping its development. For instance, Walt Disney used experimental animation in his work.

When it comes to video marketing, it's important to remember that experimenting can sometimes lead to unexpected results. However, the simplest and most cost-effective way to test this style is by creating GIFs and sharing them with your audience.

Studies and Resources

• Cecile Starr and Experimental Animation Cecile Starr
  

• Experimental Animation: From Analogue to Digital by Miriam Harris, 2019

18. Erasure Animation

This unique style involves the author using white paper, a simple pencil, and an eraser to craft stories. Erasure animation is quite an original approach and can be a fascinating addition to your video marketing strategy. For instance, here’s a fun example.

19. Pinscreen Animation

Here’s an interesting one! To create a pinscreen animation, you’ll need a vertical soft screen and numerous needles. When pressed, the needles protrude to replicate the shape of the object, creating fascinating shadow plays that result in a voluminous image. According to historians of this style, the invention of the “needle screen” in 1930 became a prototype for computer graphics, with the needles acting as analog pixels. This remarkable device was invented by Alexander Alekseev, and here is one of his captivating works created using it.

Also Read

• French Animation History by Richard Neupert, 2011

20. Whiteboard Animation

Whiteboard animation reached its peak popularity in 2012-2013. While it’s true that other styles have since become more popular, whiteboard animation still holds niche appeal, particularly in educational and training videos. Its simplicity and clarity make it ideal for explaining complex concepts in an engaging manner.

Despite the rise of more dynamic animation styles, whiteboard animation remains relevant in specific contexts. It continues to be a valuable tool for creating explainer videos, educational content, and training materials where straightforward, step-by-step illustration is beneficial.

Useful Resources on Whiteboard Animation

• VideoScribe: a Beginners Guide to Whiteboard Animation Software by Tracie Rollins, 2013
• The Lean Explainer Video: A Video Production Handbook for Startups and Entrepreneurs by Dan Englander, 2015
• Do-It-Yourself Whiteboard-Style Physics Video Lectures by Scott Samuel Douglas, 2017

21. HUD Animation

HUD (Heads-Up Display) animations are best known in video games, where they provide players with real-time info and tips during gameplay. But their use goes way beyond gaming. These animations are also important in marketing videos, TV shows, and movies.

In marketing, HUD animations add extra info to help viewers understand and stay engaged. They can show stats, product features, or navigation aids in a fun and easy-to-see way. On TV, HUD animations improve sports broadcasts with live stats, highlight points in news shows, and add context in documentaries.

In movies, these animations often show a character's tech view, like a pilot’s cockpit display or a soldier’s tactical screen in action films. As you can see, HUD animations aren't just for gamers; they’re a cool tool used in many different industries.

Sources to find out more about hud animation

• Virtual World Design by Ann Latham Cudworth, 2014
• Learning 2D Game Development with Unity: A Hands-On Guide to Game Creation by Matthew Johnson, 2014.

22. 360 Animation

360-degree video goes beyond just 3D. It's a powerful tool used in virtual and augmented reality, unlocking endless possibilities for video marketing. For instance, retailers can utilize this technology in their virtual fitting rooms, while furniture sellers can help customers visualize how a piece will complement their interiors.

House builders can create virtual tours of home plans even at the design stage. This type of video offers an excellent opportunity to showcase products in conditions that closely mimic reality. Check out this example to see its potential in action.

Here’s an informative publication on this technology.

• System and method of creating a 360-degree movie animation of a vehicleby Robert Longo, 2004

23. Plexus Animation

Plexus animation involves creating flat images using dots and lines. A classic example is the textbook illustration of the solar system. Often utilized in After Effects, this technique is commonly seen at the end of a game, the conclusion of a movie, or when a program switches to standby mode. While simple, plexus animation allows for the creation of captivating patterns that can enhance the main product. To truly grasp this style, it's best to see it in action.

Additional Sources

• Animation Writing and Development: From Script Development to Pitch by Jean Ann Wright, 2013
• Write Your Way Into Animation and Games: Create a Writing Career in Animation and Games by Christy Marx, 2010

24. Rotoscope Animation

This approach was first tested in 1914. To create this, you'll need a video with real actors, which will then be transformed into animation. The artist purposefully draws each frame of the video from the cinema film. Before the invention of the rotoscope, tracing paper was the tool of choice. Now, rotoscoping is used to create crowd scenes in films and for commercials where the drawn object needs to interact with the environment just like a real character. Additionally, this technique significantly reduces the cost of 3D production by making object duplication easy. Rotoscope animation is also perfect for engaging storytelling.

Additional Sources

• Is Rotoscope True Animation? by Christine Mersiana Lukmanto, 2018

25. Clay Animation

This technique is quite creative and can sometimes be complex. However, the end result is truly unique and often amusing. Remember the movie Chicken Run (2000)? This beloved cartoon was brought to life using clay animation.

The essence of the technique involves creating characters from clay and filming their movements with a camera. Sometimes, it works the other way around—characters are designed using software and then "embedded" into the scenery. This method is particularly effective for businesses targeting children, as clay characters often embody a sense of "childlike carelessness." Here are some publications on this topic.

Examples Of Clay Animation

Publications on Clay Animation

• Secrets of Clay Animation Revealed by Marc Spess, 2000
• Modeling With Polymer Clay by David Kracov
• Under the Sea: Beyond Projects by Christi Friesen

26. Augmented Reality Animation

Augmented Reality Animation involves using animated objects to enhance an AR experience. The simplest example is Snapchat photo effects, like sticking a mustache or cat ears to your selfie. But AR animation goes beyond that. It's widely used in game development, often incorporating 3D technologies. The combination of 3D and augmented reality works so well because 3D models and characters appear more lifelike. This is why AR animation is primarily utilized in AR game development, offering users a fully immersive experience.

Moreover, AR animation is crucial for creating AR apps. Take virtual fitting room apps for eCommerce and retail, for instance; they're built with AR animation, providing a seamless shopping experience. It’s also a fantastic solution for furniture retailers, as customers can instantly see how an item fits into their interior. A perfect example of this in action is IKEA's AR app.

Useful Resources on Augmented Reality Animation

• Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Computer Graphics by Lucio Tommaso De Paolis, 2018
• Prototyping Augmented Reality by Tone Mullen, 2011
• Animation of construction activities in outdoor augmented reality by Amir H. Behzadan, 2016

27. Realistic Cartoon

Did you recognize them? Yes, it’s SpongeBob and Patrick, depicted in a somewhat realistic style from our world. A realistic cartoon blends the classic cartoon look with elements of live-action films. Essentially, it's an attempt to either humanize cartoon characters or place real-life figures into a cartoon setting.

28. Japanese Classic Manga

Have you watched Death Note? That's a classic example of manga style. The origins of this art form began with comics, eventually blossoming into a popular animated series using 2D technology. Traditionally, manga is black and white, though using other colors is also acceptable. This unique style caters to a specific audience.

For instance, if you have an international business and are looking to expand into the Japanese market, adopting this style can serve as an excellent bridge to potential consumers. You can certainly create a promotional video or tell a story using this captivating style.

Check out the 20 best examples of Manga here.

Resources to learn more about classic manga in animation

• Manga! Manga!: The World Of Japanese Comics by Frederik L. Schodt, 1998
• Manga for the Beginner Kawaii: How to Draw the Supercute Characters of Japanese Comics by Christopher Hart, 2012

29. Chibi

Chibi drawing is a unique substyle of classic manga, distinguished by its distinctive character design. In this approach, heroes feature round faces, large eyes, and a small stature to emphasize a childlike appearance. Interestingly, chibi has a broader appeal than traditional manga because it is less closely associated with Japan.

This style is highly versatile, making it ideal for promotional and explanatory videos, particularly for businesses targeting children as their end users.

Resources to learn more about classic manga in animation

• Chibi Art Class: A Complete Course in Drawing Chibi Cuties and Beasties by Yoai, 2019
• Mastering Manga with Mark Crilley: 30 drawing lessons from the creator of Akiko by Mark Crilley, 2012
• Drawing Manga Animals, Chibis, and Other Adorable Creatures by J.C. Amberlyn, 2013

30. Minimalistic Style

Minimalism is a popular trend in modern web design, and it has also made its mark on video marketing. As the name suggests, this style aims for maximum simplicity. This approach is ideal for explainer videos, as it often takes real skill to convey complex ideas using simple words and images.

Moreover, minimalistic videos are highly effective for online services, applications, and software. When dealing with a complicated service or product, a straightforward explanation tends to yield the best results.

Resources to learn more about classic manga in animation

• Manga! Manga!: The World Of Japanese Comics by Frederik L. Schodt, 1998
• Manga for the Beginner Kawaii: How to Draw the Supercute Characters of Japanese Comics by Christopher Hart, 2012

31. Tim Burton’s Style

Tim Burton’s animation style is instantly recognizable, characterized by dark, gothic elements, quirky characters, and a unique blend of horror and whimsy. His first notable film, "Frankenweenie," was initially created as a short film in 1984 and later adapted into a full-length stop-motion animated feature in 2012.

Burton’s distinctive aesthetic features exaggerated, angular character designs, with big eyes and thin limbs, often set in surreal, atmospheric environments. This style has significantly influenced both mainstream and independent animators, inspiring a whole genre of animation that embraces the macabre and the fantastical.

Useful Resources

• Gothic Fantasy: The Films of Tim Burton by Edwin Page, 2007
• Revising Animation Genres: Jan Svankmajer, Tim Burton and James Cameron and the Study of Myth by Cyrus Manasseh, 2015

Conclusion

The world of animation is very diverse to say the least. In addition to the 31 styles we’ve mentioned here, even more variations exist by mixing these styles with each other. Which ones stand out to you? Tell us what your favorites are!