MDM650 Week 2:
Finish 10-second
Logo Build
Animation
Multiple power outages occurred when my system unexpectedly shut down. I discovered I am drawing too much power from the measly 20-amp breaker, and the room next to mine is on the same breaker. One 25' construction-grade extension cord later and a spare plug in the master bedroom, and I was up and running again.
This is one of many hurdles, but I stretched myself and built something that represents my brand well, something that I didn't compromise on.
10-second
Animation
NOTE: This version has placeholder audio. It still needs some sound effects and some tweaking to the mix itself, but hopefully it is enough to get some feedback.
Schedule Adjustments
This took longer than I had planned, partly due to some electrical issues that had to be resolved, and then a temporary solution was implemented, allowing me to return to this project. The other week 2 item (that carries over to week 3), a video commercial, will be bumped to week 4, and I will drop the optional Loop Animation that I was considering adding to my list of 6 assets, making the looping animation number 7.
Design Rationale for
Media Asset Production
Research
Multiple research sources influenced the design decisions for this week's media asset production. Hooks (2019) explored techniques for creating the illusion of movement in graphic design, offering insights on kinetic movement, rhythmic movement, and illusory motion. These principles guided the animation choices, ensuring the transitions and motion elements created a dynamic composition. Additionally, Canva (n.d.) reinforced the significance of movement in storytelling and visual branding, making rhythm-based design strategies an essential part of the animation process.
Studies on digital advertising also played a crucial role. Hsiao (2021) and Grgurović (2024) analyzed video versus image-based advertising formats, supporting the decision to focus on an animated sequence rather than static visuals. Motion graphics strategies presented by the VistaCreate Team (2019) further validated this direction, demonstrating the impact of motion-based content in social media and brand messaging. The Full Sail University case study (2025) provided additional context on how the pandemic accelerated the adoption of motion graphics in advertising, reinforcing the value of adaptability in media production.
Solving Problems
The development process followed a structured approach:
Image Preparation: Assets were divided into multiple layers based on principles outlined by Hooks (2019), ensuring motion could be effectively implied through strategic placement.
Layer Organization: Layer order and naming conventions were optimized for seamless import into After Effects.
Importing into After Effects: Individual layers were treated as separate animated elements.
3D Layer Adjustments: Parallax effects were introduced to add depth and visual hierarchy (Canva, n.d.).
Animation & Effects: The final animation was refined through a series of feedback loops, resulting in improved fluidity and composition.
A visual aid demonstrating the final animated sequence can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/2K_6fZ5u_EI?si=4Jq5mboIAu70-fXv
or just view the video above.
Collaboration
Collaboration played a key role in refining the animation. Feedback from professional peers and family members helped validate the effectiveness of motion storytelling (Full Sail University, 2025). The insights from McCaw (2025) regarding the distinction between static and dynamic media informed decisions on striking a balance between stability and engagement. The iterative process ensured that animation principles were applied precisely, resulting in a visually compelling final product.
Acquiring Competencies
This project reinforced the significance of movement and digital adaptability in branding (Hooks, 2019; VistaCreate Team, 2019). The evolving nature of advertising trends, as explored by Parachuk (2021), further supports the importance of engagement-driven media strategies. The research-driven approach ensured that motion graphics enhanced brand identity and aligned with best practices in visual storytelling.
References
Canva. (n.d.). How to create movement in design. Canva. Retrieved from https://www.canva.com/learn/how-to-create-movement-in-design/
Full Sail University. (2025).Case study. Retrieved from https://online.fullsail.edu/class_sections/222734/modules/856170/activities/4909911
Grgurović, M. (2024). Video ads vs. image ads: What should publishers choose? Target Video. Retrieved from https://target-video.com/video-vs-image-ads/
Hsiao, J. (2021, June 11). Video or images: Which performs better in Facebook ads? HubSpot. Retrieved from https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/to-video-or-not-to-video
Hooks, R. (2019). The illusion of movement in graphic design. 99designs. Retrieved from https://99designs.com/blog/tips/movement-in-graphic-design/
McCaw, M. (2025). Static vs. dynamic - Which is better for you? Wix. Retrieved from https://melindamccawmedia.com/tip-of-the-week/static-vs-dynamic-which-is-better-for-your-website/
Parachuk, T. (2021). Why should I use radio ads? Voices. Retrieved from https://www.voices.com/blog/create-radio-ad-campaign/
VistaCreate Team. (2019). How to use motion graphics for social media and ads. VistaCreate. Retrieved from https://create.vista.com/blog/using-motion-graphics-for-social-media-and-ads/