Creating an informative and at the same time catchy promo video can be tough, especially when you need to do motion design for a pre-determined script. Recently, we had the chance to collaborate with Paybis to work on its video content. You might have already come across these videos on our Vimeo or Paybis’s YouTube and today we invite our followers to explore the production process we had within a tight deadline.
Project Brief:
This project involves illustration, animation, and video production. Our main responsibility was contributing to the company’s promotional initiatives, particularly through promotional video production for YouTube. It was agreed that the videos should feature 2D flat-style illustrations, funny and friendly characters, and animated typography. Paybis enjoyed bright colors and workspace as the setting for most of the videos. Regarding the color palette, purple and white were our main colors with an accent color such as red.
Process
During our initial project discussions with the client, we agreed on animated videos that set the foundation for Paybis’s brand communication. The client needed these videos to be engaging and inform users about questions they might have. Some videos had to be educational and provide instant learning about fundamental topics such as how to buy a coin.
The systematic video production process involved the most user-friendly considerations that would connect users to this financial management platform. We didn’t allocate time to write and record scripts, but generally:
Video scripts for production can vary in detail. Some are basic, outlining timing, scene descriptions, and sequence, while others include full scenarios and even pre-recorded voice-overs. Providing audio beforehand is highly beneficial, as it allows motion designers to synchronize visuals and sound from the start. For clients seeking custom videos, using professional voice actors is recommended. The chosen voice should align with the video’s tone and target audience, ensuring clarity and suitability. Similarly, if music replaces speech, it should harmonize with the visuals to create a cohesive experience. The production team can assist in selecting appropriate voices or background music to match the video’s style and purpose.
For Paybis, voice-overs and scripts were given, and our task was to brainstorm ideas for the visualization of the textual content.
Creative Video Production Stages
Research
Our research process involved looking into similar videos that would inspire our design direction. We noted some common attributes of these videos and tried to add our design style and perspective.
Pre-production
Before we roll up our sleeves, we usually check with our clients the type of promo video they are looking for. Promo videos come in several types, each serving different marketing purposes:
- Introduction videos: These provide an overview of the brand, its products, and their benefits.
- Product presentation videos: These videos detail the product’s features, advantages, and problem-solving potential.
- Landing page videos: You can use videos to enhance the impact of your landing page, strengthening the message and driving users to a particular call-to-action.
- Video testimonials: A great way to show why customers trust the brand, sorting their reasons for preferring the brand.
- Entertaining and educational videos: We use this type to raise emotional appeal and present the material for viral marketing.
We decided on two befitting types, introduction and educational videos. Following our discussion, our animators worked to create a storyboard to capture project requirements. They tried to brainstorm ideas based on the script and the design guide provided by our client. The script mentions what design elements are required; for example, one of these illustrations was that of a character holding a credit card. Next, one of our designer teammates designs the scene with careful application of the brand style. For more conceptual design inspiration, they usually adhere to keyword searches on Google and Dribbble.
Production
Once the storyboard is approved and the illustrations are finalized, we go through the editing stage with our graphic designers. After applying the final touches, our assets are prepared (adjusted in format and size) for motion magic. The primary tool we use for this process is Adobe After Effects which allows our motion designers to design other elements separately. However, most assets are provided by illustrators and may be adjusted as needed, as even minor tweaks can significantly influence the motion design.
Post-production
SFX or sound effects are added using video editors, in this case, Adobe Premier. Our designers used Artlist.io as the primary source for SFXs.
What were our final design assets?
The project involved seven promo explainer videos and six advertising videos. In designing these videos, we have applied brand colors blue, black, and white to illustrate and color characters and objects. We also used one accent color per illustration to enhance color variety. For a friendly appearance, rounder edges with a corner radius of 16 pt were chosen.
Let’s dive in to understand each video content and our design approach:
Video No. 1. Where exactly can you buy Bitcoin?
This is a 3-minute comprehensive video we designed to explain where users can buy Bitcoin safely and introduce Paybis as the safest crypto platform. We also provide reasons why this is the case and showcase the Paybis support services for impeccable transactions.
Video No. 2. Crypto Security is Crucial for Exchanges
Here’s a great example of engaging storytelling, describing crypto security with 2D visuals, data, and statistics. We described five security threats in crypto exchange and discussed why Paybis is a safe option.
Video No. 3. Common Problems During the Account Creation
With this video, we responded to every question a user might have about account creation at Paybis. This comes with a storyboard to let you view some of the sketching work behind the design:
Below, see how we turned the storyboard into an actual motion video:
Video No. 4. Why buy a Bitcoin with a credit card?
The next video explicates the importance of Bitcoin, promoting Paybis’s platform services and Bitcoin’s major milestones.
Video No. 5. Decided to cash out your Crypto?
If you decide to cash out your cryptocurrency, the process might not be as straightforward on some platforms; in this video, our goal is to explain why Paybis is the right platform choice. We touch upon important aspects of liquidation such as secure, low-fee transactions and quick access to funds.
Video No. 6. KYC Binance Crack Down
2D illustrations play a key role in this motion design as we explore the history of KYC and how users can pass this process at Paybis.
Video No. 7. Tips for a smooth withdrawal process
Here’s our last motion video design; while this video features illustrations similar to the ones used in other videos, the key focus was establishing a consistent style to maintain uniformity across all videos.
What does the project timeline depend on?
Project timelines vary depending on the project type, complexity, and the availability of resources. Usually, 3D projects take much longer than flat, 2D alternatives. The number of illustrations used in a promo video is also another factor. Designing several illustrations right from scratch, alongside the production process, demands a specific time allocation for the brainstorming phase. Complex design requirements such as 3D design, detailed illustrations, and animation effects can lengthen this process. One last determinant is the availability of our designers, work tools, and the quality of understanding we have about project requirements.
Speaking of understanding requirements, our studio prioritizes online sessions with our clients to discuss their needs and provide solutions. At times, certain client requests may not be the best practical option from a professional point of view, and we work on reaching a compromise before the process.
Be our next client. Let’s chat at [email protected].
Useful Articles and Case Studies
Motion Graphics: Infuse Emotions in Your Business Presence – Abron Blog
Case Study: UI/UX, Branding, and Logo Design for a Tech Agency – Abron Blog
SmartDVM: Brand Identity and UI/UX Case Study
For more design work by our team, visit our Behance.
