Here’s a behind the scenes look at one of my projects. My process was to keep everything organized so every detail is considered. We achieved a consistent look across the entire series of six videos.

Pre-production

Processes vary from client to client. In this case we were provided the script, storyboard, and illustrations. Not every client has a design team so I often design and illustrate. Here, I was able to focus all my attention on the animation which was great.

Planning

After the source files were provided I spent time with the creative director. We planned out the tone of the animation and transitions. This is one of the most import parts of creating a sophisticated explainer video.

This is one file showing how I organize and name in Adobe Illustrator which keeps everything nice and tidy in After Effects. — This is one file showing how I organize and name in Ai which keeps everything nice and tidy in Ae.

Prep work

Now that I have my direction I can dive into Illustrator to start prepping artwork. Depending on how an object moves affects how it needs to be created and exported. I usually need to re-draw or edit the illustrations.

Audio

I always suggest hiring a sound engineer to do the mixing and sound design. Sometimes it’s not in the budget so I can do it in a pinch. I’ll edit the voice over first then the music track to the correct length. Once those are in a good place it’s a simple copy and paste to AE.

No one really uses the flow chart in After Effectsbut you can see how complex one scene can be. It pays to be organized. — It pays to be organized.

Getting started

Once all my assets are ready I can import the files into After Effects. I have a very specific way of organizing projects. After hundreds of layers, source materials, and compositions things get pretty complex, especially when you’re seven videos into a project.

Animation

Finally, animation can begin. I like to start at the beginning but sometimes I’ll pick a part of the video that has a key moment. Once I’m happy with 20-30 seconds we send it to the client for approval. With their blessing we move on to the rest of the video.

Audio mix and export

Once the animation is approved we do a final mix. Occasionally we add sound design but this project didn’t call for it. And after one more round of approvals it’s time for the export.

That’s it!

Simple, right? My process made it easy to keep elements consistent in a half dozen other videos which had similar animations, effects, and colors. If you have any questions please reach out. I’d be happy to talk over my process and how it can work for you.