Animation is no longer for the entertainment industry – recently, they have gained widespread popularity and many brands are using them for marketing purposes.
But if you think you’re only limited to one type of animation – you’re greatly mistaken. Animation offers variety and you’ll discover some unlikely variety to choose from!
Different Types of Animation

2D Animation is considered a classic form of animation and very popular among the general audience.
1) 2D Animation
This animation is no stranger. Even if you’re not an expert in the field of animation, this type would most likely pop to mind when the word ‘animation’ is mentioned.
Think of all your favourite cartoon shows such as The Power Puff Girls, Spongebob Squarepants, Cinderella and more. Perhaps, it’s the most versatile out of the others.
Previously, 2D animation is consider to be tedious as each frame requires to be hand drawn but advancement in technologies and software eliminates the issue
2D is very prominent in education, entertainment, gaming and more.

Toy Story is the first animated film in Oscar history to be nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Screenplay category.
2) 3D Animation
This animation style catches audiences due to its dynamic and realistic feel. Every character, object and scenery is completely computer generated but it cannot be done just by anyone.
A team of experienced experts would still be required as they need the skills and knowledge to illustrate and make animated composites.
If you have complex ideas and want to challenge the norm; then this animation style can be suitable for you. As a matter of fact, it can fit in any industry as long as the theme and messages align.

Whiteboard animation is rather straight-forward – characters and stories are drawn, followed by voice over or narration.
3) Whiteboard Animation
If you want to deliver a straight-forward message or story, then the whiteboard animation is suitable. Popular on Youtube during the mid 2000’s, animators would include illustrators drawing with pens or markers on a white surface, followed by narration or voiceover.
The medicine, retail and logistic industry uses this style as well to endorse their services or products.
4) Stop Motion Animation
Stop motion is one of the most traditional animation styles. Still objects or images are filmed in a specific sequence to create the illusion of movement.
Aesthetically unique and cost efficient – the food and entertainment industry are keen on this style.

Good motion graphics subtly capture the audience’s attention and gets them interested in the video.
5) Motion Graphics Animation
This animation involves the movement of shapes, textures and texts and it isn’t as complex as the other.
Usually, this animation is used for infotainment, commercials, film titles, animated logos, promotional campaigns, and advertisements.
This style is a choice for the medical, engineering, marketing, mathematical and entertainment industry.

Motion capture animation is considered to be modern and integrated in films and gaming to bring characters to life.
6) Motion Capture Animation
This is an advanced form of 3D animation that allows animators to create ultra realistic animation from live-action scenes.
Actors are dressed in suits that track their movements and interactions so that it can be recreated with computer graphics.
You would normally see this style in the film and gaming industry where the aim is to create realistic character animations with lifelike facial expressions.
Not all animations are created to be the same. They offer variety but the purpose is the same – to deliver story and messages more effectively to the audiences.
We see each style has its place in every industry and brands shouldn’t miss the opportunity to integrate animation to market their products or services.
With the right animators, any idea or concept you may have can come to life – no matter how complex you may think it is. So, don’t hesitate to reach for the experts!