Every motion design project starts the same way. Staring at a blank page, pondering how exactly to get started. Then, putting pen to paper – whether metaphorical or literal! – is the first step in earnest. It must be accompanied by an understanding of what needs to be conveyed, though.

Sometimes, for example, relatable character design lies at the heart of illustration for motion design. In other instances, a more abstract approach may be necessary, with no attempt to personify the content. Nevertheless, context remains at the core of the visual language.

The illustration comes in many forms, from educational and straight-faced to whimsical and wacky – in addition to everything in between. At the illustration for motion design phase, the only limit is the artist's imagination. All that matters is that the illustration carries a clear message.

The emphasis on this video is how visuals have a range of languages, just like speech. For example, attempting to communicate with a Russian speaker in Spanish will invariably lead to mixed messages, and the same applies to visual language. Throughout this video, motion design artists explain how you can embrace and understand visual language and perspective to find a style that suits your brand.