When it comes to captivating audiences and building lasting brand affinity, nothing beats video. But getting the most out of your video marketing investment requires more than just having someone hit record. The limitless power of animation — bursting with color, free from the constraints of real-world physics and designed with instant comprehension in mind — is just what the doctor ordered to cut through the noise and leave a lasting impression. By harnessing the latest trends in animation, marketers can create content that sparks curiosity and forges lasting connections with audiences.

Here are some of the freshest animation trends we’ve been inspired by lately – and oh yeah, we have a new Animation Reel from the Matter Video team!

Handcrafted just for you – Photo collage, mixed media, and frame by frame

There’s just something special about a handmade gift. I would know, my mum loves them (or at least she says she does). The look and feel of being crafted by human hands give this style an edge of authenticity and uniqueness. This here, now this is one of a kind. So how do we translate that into animation?

Leveraging client assets can be clunky at times. Photos of varying quality, b-roll taken in different settings and the various requirements laid out in brand guidelines can tempt you to rely heavily on stock assets. If you’re looking for a fresher approach that ties these pieces together, try an animated photo collage. Paper textures and a lower frame rate (mimicking stop motion animation) can inject a nostalgic, human touch that draws viewers in.

Another way to play with mixed media is by mixing live action, 3D animation, and 2D animation. Use this disorienting blend to create a fantastical world that revolves around a product.

We can also tap into nostalgia using traditional frame by frame 2D animation. With this retro feel comes greater control of any animated elements (from character to environment) and helps add to the handmade quality that grabs a viewer’s attention.

Squash and stretch – 3D simulation

Look at your logo… now look again! There is something satisfying about watching it morph into different things, putting a twist on a (hopefully) very familiar image. Letting logos have a little wiggle room can sometimes be seen as a branding no-no, but the right animation can also showcase how powerful the original design is — and how recognizable it is regardless of the form it takes. These simulations make great splash screens in an animated or video asset.

The gamification of it all – Viewer engagement

Up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, Start, there’s no one cheat code when it comes to gamification. Pulling viewers into an immersive experience gives them something to think about that will truly stick with them. Gone are the days of icons popping in one by one. We want to see a full screen — a vibrant world in which our characters or icons intermingle. Lean into the nostalgia of chunky pixels and 2D fighting games. Or take it a step further and let your audience really play. Take a Choose Your Own Adventure route and let the viewers guide themselves through an interactive experience.

From grey to great – Injecting bold color

Florals for spring? Groundbreaking I know, but there is some serious weight to that statement. Gone are the beiges and greys that dominate corporate design. People are yearning for a burst of color, something to catch their eye.

Staying on top of current trends in marketing isn’t just about following the crowd; it’s about strategically positioning your brand to resonate with your audience in a meaningful way. When viewers encounter content that incorporates familiar trends, it taps into a sense of recognition and belonging, triggering positive associations with your brand. You’re signaling to your audience that your brand is not only up-to-date but also trustworthy and reliable. Embracing trends in your visual marketing efforts is more than a strategic choice — it’s essential for cultivating lasting connections with your audience and ensuring your brand remains relevant and impactful.