I am a Motion graphic designer. and I want to advance my skills but I am not sure how? what are the resources available, currently I am using moho. should I stick to Moho or learn some other software?
CGPeers Members I Need help
- Thread starter KR29
- Start date
Hi, @KR29 As a motion graphic designer, advancing your skills involves both mastering the software you're currently using and exploring new tools that can broaden your creative possibilities. Since you're already using Moho, it’s a great start—Moho is fantastic for 2D animation and vector-based motion graphics. However, whether you should stick to Moho or explore other software depends on the type of work you want to pursue and the areas you want to specialize in.
Here’s a breakdown of what you could do:
1. Mastering Moho:
Deepen your understanding: Moho has many features, especially for rigging and character animation. You could explore advanced techniques like custom rigging, advanced bone structures, and animating with switch layers. Explore plug-ins and scripts: Moho has many community-made tools that can improve your workflow.
2. Learning New Software:
While Moho is excellent for 2D animation, expanding your knowledge of other software can help you stay competitive and versatile.
- Adobe After Effects:
This is the industry standard for motion graphics and compositing. It’s used extensively for 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, and motion design. Learning After Effects would open up many possibilities in terms of flexibility and integration with other Adobe tools (like Illustrator and Photoshop).
- Cinema 4D:
If you’re interested in integrating 3D elements into your motion graphics, Cinema 4D is a popular choice among motion designers. It’s used for creating 3D motion graphics and visual effects and works well alongside After Effects.
- Blender:
If you're interested in 3D animation but want a free, open-source option, Blender is an excellent choice. It has a robust community and lots of resources for motion graphics and character animation.
- Toon Boom Harmony:
If you're leaning more into animation for films or series, Toon Boom is another professional tool used in the animation industry.
3. Resources Available:
Online Courses: Websites like Udemy, Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning, and CGMA offer motion graphics and animation courses, ranging from beginner to advanced levels.
YouTube Channels: Channels like Motion Design School, Mt. Mograph, School of Motion, and Creative Dojo provide free tutorials and tips on After Effects, Moho, Cinema 4D, and other tools.
Forums and Communities: Engage with communities on Reddit, Discord, or the Moho Forum to exchange ideas, get feedback, and keep learning.
Books: There are great books on motion graphics, animation principles, and design, such as "The Animator’s Survival Kit" by Richard Williams.
4. Should You Stick with Moho?
Moho is great for 2D animation, but if you want to take your work to the next level or diversify into motion graphics, After Effects is highly recommended. However, if you prefer to specialize in 2D animation, then sticking with Moho and expanding your skills in it is also a valid choice. Combining Moho with After Effects for compositing or adding VFX could be a strong approach. Ultimately, it comes down to what you want to focus on and the direction of your career. It’s beneficial to master one tool thoroughly before branching out into others, but adding After Effects or Cinema 4D to your skillset can make you a more well-rounded motion graphic designer.
Really appreciate the input! I’ve been considering learning Cinema 4D for 3D motion graphics, and after hearing your thoughts, I think it’ll be a great addition to my skillset.
