The Future and Development of Motion Graphics

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THE DEVELOPMENT AND HISTORY OF MOTION GRAPHICS
Jacquie Steyn

Introduction
In this essay I will discuss the history and development of motion graphics. I begin by trying to assess what motion graphics actually is, then go into more depth concerning its history, after which I will expand on the development of title sequences. Lastly I will attempt to discuss the future of motion graphics according to a few designers in the industry.

Towards a Definition of Motion Graphics
There exists no universally accepted definition of motion graphics. This could possibly be attributed to the fact that the exact origin of motion graphics is not known and is often disputed. Motion graphics is a type of technology used for creating graphics, whereas animation can be described as its subset and in turn these two terms overlap to an extent. (www.motionmedia.org). Motion graphics can also be defined as any type of graphics that move and therefore its prehistory dates back to that of cinema itself. Apparently if “animated characters express themselves directly” in a story it is considered to be animation, otherwise it is motion graphics. (www.fastcodesign.com).

Motion graphics make use of video footage and animation to create the illusion of motion and generally tend to transform on their own without the manipulation of users, such as with interactive data visualizations. Because motion graphics are usually combined with audio they are closer to films than to static infographics. But there exists a great deal of overlaps that makes the task of defining motion graphics all the more difficult. (www.fastcodesign.com).

Motion graphics can also be described as “the art of bringing graphic design to life through animation.” (www.fastcodesign.com). Static letters form part of motion graphics from the moment they become animated. Motion graphics can also be used to bring
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