Creating an animated video might seem like magic to the untrained eye. Characters come to life, stories unfold with vibrant colors and motion, and viewers get drawn into a world that didn’t exist just moments ago. But behind every animated video is a structured process—a step-by-step journey that turns a concept into a compelling piece of content.
Whether you’re making a short explainer video, a full-length animated film, or a social media spot, understanding the animated video production process is essential. It ensures you stay on track, manage time and budget, and end up with a high-quality video that meets your goals.
Let’s walk through the complete animated video production process in a way that’s clear, simple, and approachable.
Pre-Production: Planning and Conceptualization
Before any animation begins, the first stage is all about laying the groundwork. This is where your ideas start to take shape.
Concept Development
- Every animation begins with an idea. This could be a marketing message, a brand story, a product demonstration, or an educational concept.
- During this phase, you’ll define the purpose of the video. What do you want your audience to know, feel, or do after watching?
- You’ll also identify your target audience and key message.
Scriptwriting
- The script is the backbone of the video. It’s not just about dialogue—it’s the story, the pacing, the emotional tone, and the flow.
- A strong script simplifies complex ideas and makes the message engaging.
- The script includes narration, on-screen text, character interactions, and key actions.
Storyboard Creation
- A storyboard is like a comic strip of your video. It breaks down the script into individual scenes.
- It helps visualize how the video will unfold—scene by scene.
- Storyboards are essential for aligning the creative vision between team members, clients, and stakeholders before animation begins.
Style Frames and Visual Direction
- Style frames are sample images that reflect the look and feel of the final animation.
- These might include character designs, backgrounds, and color palettes.
- They help set expectations and establish a visual identity early in the process.
Voiceover Casting and Recording
- If your animation includes a voiceover, this is the time to cast voice talent and record the narration.
- A good voiceover adds personality, tone, and clarity to your message.
Production: Bringing the Story to Life
This is the heart of the process—where all the planning starts to pay off and the animation begins to take form.
Illustration and Asset Creation
- Based on the storyboard and style frames, the design team creates all visual assets needed for the animation.
- These include characters, props, backgrounds, icons, and text elements.
- Every visual is designed with animation in mind to ensure smooth transitions and movement.
Animation
- Animators take the static illustrations and bring them to life.
- This could include 2D motion graphics, character animation, or more complex 3D animation.
- Timing, motion, and transitions are refined to keep the audience engaged.
- Syncing the animation with the voiceover and music is also part of this phase.
Sound Design and Music
- Background music, sound effects, and audio transitions are added to enhance the overall feel of the video.
- Sound design supports the mood and pace, and makes the video more immersive.
- The music and sound should never overpower the message but instead complement it.
Review and Feedback
- Once a first draft is ready, it’s time for internal and client review.
- Feedback is gathered on pacing, clarity, visuals, and messaging.
- This is often where minor tweaks are made to refine the final product.
Post-Production: Final Touches and Delivery
The video is almost ready, but there are a few finishing touches that make it polished and professional.
Revisions and Edits
- Based on feedback, animators and editors make necessary adjustments.
- This might include smoothing transitions, adjusting timing, tweaking visuals, or re-recording sections of voiceover.
- The goal is to align the final video with the initial vision.
Exporting and Formatting
- The final video is exported in the required formats for distribution—whether it’s for web, social media, TV, or internal use.
- Different platforms may require different aspect ratios, resolutions, or codecs.
Delivery and Distribution
- Once exported, the video is delivered to the client or published to the chosen channels.
- If part of a marketing campaign, it may also be uploaded to YouTube, embedded on a website, or included in email newsletters.
Archiving Assets
- All project files, assets, and source materials are typically archived for future use.
- This makes it easy to update or repurpose the video down the line.
Table: Overview of the Animated Video Production Process
| Stage | Key Activities |
| Pre-Production | Concepting, scriptwriting, storyboarding, voiceover recording, visual planning |
| Production | Illustration, animation, sound design, initial reviews |
| Post-Production | Revisions, final edits, exporting, delivery, archiving |
FAQs About Animated Video Production
How long does it take to produce an animated video?
- It depends on the length and complexity. A simple 60-second explainer video might take 3 to 6 weeks. Larger projects with custom animation and multiple rounds of feedback could take several months.
How much does an animated video cost?
- Pricing varies widely based on style, length, and quality. A basic animated video might start at a few thousand dollars, while a custom high-end video can cost significantly more.
Do I need a script before contacting a video production company?
- Not necessarily. Many production companies help with scripting as part of their services. But having a rough idea of your message or goals is helpful.
Can changes be made after the animation is completed?
- Small tweaks can usually be made, but major changes after production can be time-consuming and expensive. It’s best to lock in the script and storyboard before animation begins.
What animation style should I choose?
- It depends on your audience, message, and brand. Options include whiteboard, motion graphics, character animation, 3D animation, and more. A production company can help you decide what suits your goals best.
Is animation better than live-action video?
- Both have their advantages. Animation is great for abstract ideas, product demos, and a polished look. Live-action is better for showcasing real people or environments. Sometimes, a hybrid approach works best.
Conclusion
The animated video production process is both creative and structured. It starts with an idea and ends with a compelling piece of content that connects with your audience. By understanding each phase—planning, production, and polishing—you can better manage timelines, budgets, and creative direction.
Whether you’re creating a short explainer for your brand or a rich animated narrative, knowing what goes on behind the scenes will help you get the most out of the process. And when done right, animation is a powerful tool to inform, inspire, and entertain.
If you’re thinking about producing an animated video, now you know what to expect—and how to make it a smooth, successful experience.