Greetings creative folks! I know how difficult it can be to find the right tools and software for developing motion graphic content. That’s why I’m here to help! As a designer who has been in the field for a while, I have tried and tested numerous tools that will make your workflow easier and more fun. So without further ado, let’s get started.

Adobe After Effects

First on my list is Adobe After Effects. It is an industry-standard for motion graphics creation. With After Effects, you can animate, composite, and create VFX effects easily. It also has a powerful set of tools that you can use to change colors with color correction and grading, and you can track objects in footage with motion tracking. This software is perfect for both beginners and advanced users.

A screenshot of Adobe After Effects interface

Adobe Photoshop

Do you need to create still graphics for your motion designs? Then Photoshop is the tool you need. One of the most popular tools in the Creative Cloud package, Photoshop allows you to create and design graphics and illustrations with ease. It also gives you access to a vast library of brushes, patterns and other resources that you can use. Photoshop files can also be imported into After Effects for further animation.

A screenshot of Adobe Photoshop interface

Adobe Illustrator

If your motion design involves vectors, Adobe Illustrator is your go-to tool. With Illustrator, you can create beautiful vector graphics, patterns, logos and icons that can be easily animated in After Effects. Using Illustrator, you have full control in the shape, color and placement of your vector art.

A screenshot of Adobe Illustrator interface

Cinema 4D

Cinema 4D is a powerful 3D modeling and animation software designed for motion graphic artists. It is easy to learn and has a user-friendly interface that allows you to create 3D objects, materials, and lighting, all in one package. You can even set up cameras and texture maps that you can import into After Effects for compositing.

A screenshot of Cinema 4D interface

Blender

If Cinema 4D is a bit too expensive for you, Blender is the perfect alternative. It is an open-source 3D software that is free to use and has a wide range of tools, such as modeling, texturing, rigging, and animation. Blender’s animation tools are powerful and flexible, with more options for rendering, shading, and FX than some other programs.

A screenshot of Blender interface

Duik Bassel

Duik Bassel is an amazing free plugin for After Effects that adds a powerful set of tools for rigging and animation. You can create complex animations quickly and precisely with its intuitive interface. Duik Bassel also provides you with the ability to control a character’s whole movement in just a few clicks.

A screenshot of Duik Bassel interface

Animation Composer

Animation Composer is a paid plugin for After Effects that offers a vast library of ready-to-use animations that you can quickly drag and drop into your motion graphic projects. With Animation Composer, you can create complex animations in seconds, and quickly add interesting animation effects that will impress your clients.

A screenshot of Animation Composer interface

Conclusion

With these tools and software, you’re now ready to create stunning motion graphic content with ease. The key is finding the right combination of tools that work for you and your particular needs. Don’t be afraid to explore and experiment with new things; that’s what makes motion graphics so exciting!

An image of various motion graphics elements

So that’s it for this blog. I hope you found this information helpful. Until next time, keep creating, and don’t forget to have fun! 🤩