Motion graphics or live action? How to choose for your explainer
Key takeaways
- Animate what can't be filmed: software, data, processes and ideas.
- Film what needs trust: people, places and physical products.
- Mix both when you need a human face and a clear explanation.
- Animation is easier to update when the product changes.
Explainer videos usually take one of two routes: filming real people and products, or animating the idea. Each has strengths, and the right choice depends on what you're explaining and who it's for.
When motion graphics win
- Software and apps: animated interfaces are cleaner than screen recordings and easier to follow.
- Data and processes: charts and diagrams can build step by step with the voice-over.
- Abstract ideas: security, speed or scale are hard to film but easy to visualise.
- Frequent updates: changing an animation is usually faster than reshooting.
When live action wins
- Trust and personality: founders, teams and customers on camera build credibility.
- Physical products: texture, size and use are best shown for real.
- Places and experiences: restaurants, venues and property need real footage.
The hybrid approach
Many of our strongest explainers use both. A founder introduces the problem on camera, motion graphics show how the product solves it, and a real customer closes with the result.
Questions to ask before you decide
- Can the thing I'm explaining be seen with a camera?
- Does the audience need to trust a person, or understand a process?
- How often will this video need updating?
- Where will it run: a landing page, an ad or a sales call?
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