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How to Make Animation Videos and 3D Product Animations

September 04, 2024

Creating a 3D product animation video is a powerful way to showcase your product’s features, functionality, and aesthetics. Whether you’re launching a new product or enhancing your marketing strategy, 3D animations can captivate your audience and provide a detailed visual experience.

Here’s a guide to help you create an engaging 3D product animation video.


What is 3D product animation?

3D product animation offers a dynamic view of your product from multiple angles, making it ideal for demonstrating complex mechanisms or intricate designs. This type of animation can elevate your marketing efforts and give your audience a deeper understanding of your product.

Sean Bruce Business Development UK

Sean Bruce,
BDM & Partner UK

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Step-by-Step guide

Create you own 3D product animation video
…Or get a glimpse into the process



1. Define your objectives
  • What is the purpose of this animation?
  • Who is your target audience?
  • What key features or benefits do you want to highlight?

Having clear objectives will guide you through the production process and ensure your final video meets your goals.

2. Gather resources and tools

To create a high-quality 3D product animation, you’ll need:

  • Software: Blender (free), Autodesk Maya, Cinema 4D, Adobe After Effects.
  • Hardware: A powerful computer with a good graphics card for rendering.
  • Assets: CAD models, textures, reference images, and other relevant materials.
3. Create a Storyboard

A storyboard serves as a visual script for your animation:

  • Sketches or rough drawings of each scene
  • Notes on camera angles and movements
  • Descriptions of actions or transition

4. Model your product in 3D

Use your chosen software to create a detailed model of your product. If you have CAD files from the design phase, import them into your 3D software. Focus on details such as textures, colours, and materials to ensure realism.

5. Animate Your Model

Bring your model to life through animation:

  • Rigging: Set up bones or joints for moving parts.
  • Keyframing: Set keyframes at points where significant changes occur.
  • Camera movements: Plan dynamic shots with strategic camera movements.
6. Add lighting and textures

Lighting is crucial for realism:

  • Use ambient light for general illumination and spotlights for focused areas.
  • Adjust shadows and reflections. Apply textures to give surfaces a unique look (e.g., metal sheen vs matte plastic).
7. Render your animation

Rendering converts elements into final images/videos frame-by-frame:

  • Choose settings based on quality vs speed trade-offs.
  • Test-render small sections before committing fully to ensure quality.

8. Post-production editing and sound design

Enhance your animation with post-production editing:

  • Use software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.
  • Add background music, sound effects, and voiceovers to increase engagement.

Dynaudio animation
Tips for creating effective animations
  • Aim for under two minutes to maintain viewer engagement.
  • Highlight unique selling points without overwhelming the audience.
  • Ensure uniformity across scenes to uphold your brand identity.

Creating compelling 3D product animation videos requires meticulous planning and technical expertise but offers valuable outcomes, able to significantly boost your marketing efforts.

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