Suchismita Sinha - CPUTEK PVT LIMITED

What Is 2D Animation? Here’s What AI and Most Blogs Won’t Tell You

Introduction: 2D Animation Still Matters

When people hear “2D animation,” their minds often jump to Saturday morning cartoons or nostalgic Disney classics. But 2D animation has come a long way—and it’s still very much alive in the world of marketing, education, tech, and storytelling. Today, it’s the backbone of thousands of explainer videos, product demos, and training content across industries.

While CGI and 3D visuals dominate big-budget cinema and gaming, 2D animation remains a quiet powerhouse. It’s adaptable, expressive, and far more affordable to produce. Behind the screens, video production companies are scaling up 2D animation to meet modern content demands—from SaaS pitches to mobile app tutorials.

The numbers back it up: according to Precedence Research, the 2D animation market is projected to hit $48 billion by 2032, growing at over 5% CAGR. So, while CGI grabs headlines, 2D animation is busy doing the heavy lifting behind countless brand stories.

What 2D Animation Really Involves

To understand why 2D Animation hasn’t gone out of style, it helps to know what goes into it. It includes characters, backgrounds, and effects drawn and animated frame-by-frame or through rig-based methods using digital tools.

Traditionally, every frame was hand-drawn. Today, however, artists use software like Toon Boom Harmony, Adobe Animate, and Moho Pro to speed up the process. These tools allow for keyframe animation, asset rigging, and vector layering making the workflow smoother without losing that signature 2D charm.

Modern 2D animation is used across:

Explainer and onboarding videos for startup
E-learning modules
App and UI walkthroughs
Social Media Campaigns
Character-driven brand stories

From a studio’s perspective, the production involves a compact but specialized team. Typically, a 60–90 second video will need a scriptwriter, storyboard artist, illustrator, animator, sound designer, and a project manager. In some workflows, the same person may handle illustration and animation, especially when using cut-out or puppet-based rigs.

This streamlined team structure is one of the reasons 2D remains so popular among video production companies—it delivers professional results without the overhead of massive teams or heavy computational rendering.

Why 2D Animation Is Still Cost-Effective

One of the biggest advantages of 2D animation is that it doesn’t cost a fortune to produce. While the output can be just as impactful as CGI or 3D, the production time and technical demands are significantly lower.

Let’s talk numbers.

On average, a 60-second 2D animated video can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on complexity, storytelling depth, and design style. In contrast, a similar 3D animation could cost upwards of $15,000–$30,000, particularly if it involves character modeling, rigging, and environmental rendering.

Why the gap?

2D animation uses flat artwork, which reduces design and rendering time.
Rig-based 2D characters can be reused or quickly modified for future content.
There’s less reliance on expensive GPU rendering farms.

For small businesses, non-profits, and emerging startups, that’s a big deal.

Here’s a real-world scenario:
A fintech company working with a video production company needed to produce a series of 2D explainer videos for onboarding. By designing a consistent brand character and reusing the same animation rig across episodes, they cut down design time by 40% and saved nearly 30% of their overall budget across the campaign.

It’s this kind of production logic—high creative output with minimal waste—that keeps 2D animation relevant, especially for teams looking for a balance between quality and efficiency.

What a Video Production Company Knows

If there’s one thing experienced video production companies understand, it’s how to scale creativity without reinventing the wheel each time. A well-run studio doesn’t just “make videos”—it builds a repeatable system around 2D animation, combining visual storytelling with workflow efficiency.

At its core, a typical 2D animation team includes:

A scriptwriter and creative director for concept
Storyboard artist and illustrator for visuals
Animator (or a few) using tools like Toon Boom or After Effects
A project manager to keep the process on track

With streamlined operations, even a 5–8 member team can deliver 8–10 short 2D videos per month. Larger studios, supported by modular asset libraries and reusable character rigs, often produce 20+ assets monthly—from explainers to bite-sized social clips.

The biggest cost-saving factor? Pre-production clarity. When the script and storyboard are locked in early, rework is minimized and the team moves faster.

Take this real-world case:
A fintech brand needed a series of animated explainers. Instead of designing new characters for each, the studio repurposed a core brand mascot with varied expressions and settings. The result? 30% savings in production costs and faster turnarounds—without compromising quality.

This is where smart production strategy meets art. And 2D animation—lean and efficient—makes that possible.

Market Use Cases Driving Demand

If you’re wondering where all these 2D animations go—just look around. From social media feeds to corporate town halls, they’re everywhere. Companies today don’t just use 2D for branding—they rely on it for communication, education, and engagement.

Some of the highest-growth use cases include:

Corporate training: Animated workplace scenarios for compliance or onboarding.
SaaS explainers: Simple yet powerful visuals to explain products in under 90 seconds.
Social media: Short, engaging animations for reels, ads, and awareness campaigns.
EdTech: Platforms like BYJU’S and Duolingo use 2D characters to boost engagement and retention.

Why does it work?

Because the human brain loves visuals. According to Wyzowl’s 2024 Video Marketing Report, animated explainer videos can improve information retention by up to 90%, especially in training and e-learning environments.

2D animations deliver bite-sized, repeatable, and easily localized content. And in a market flooded with noise, simple visuals often win the attention war.

2D vs. 3D: Strategic Choice, Not Just Style

While 3D animation gets the spotlight in big-budget films and hyper-real simulations, 2D remains a smart business decision for many brands. The choice isn’t just aesthetic—it’s strategic.

2D animation excels in:

Emotional storytelling
Quicker turnarounds
Cost efficiency
Scalable asset management

It’s ideal for explaining abstract concepts, expressing emotions, or creating stylized brand personas. In contrast, 3D animation is better suited for detailed product showcases, architectural walkthroughs, or immersive gaming environments.

For most video production companies, especially those working with B2B or startup clients, 2D offers a better ROI. It gets the message across clearly, without bloated budgets or extended production cycles. And when consistency across content formats is needed—like in onboarding flows or product explainers—2D’s flexibility truly shines.

Global Icons of 2D Animation: Studios That Shaped the Craft

Before the rise of CGI, 2D animation ruled the world—and many of its masterpieces continue to resonate today.

Walt Disney Animation Studios defined the golden age with films like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), The Lion King (1994), and Beauty and the Beast (1991). These classics weren’t just commercially successful—they became cultural touchpoints that shaped generations.

In Japan, Studio Ghibli elevated 2D storytelling into art. Spirited Away (2001) won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, while My Neighbor Totoro and Princess Mononoke remain global favorites for their hand-crafted beauty and emotional depth.

More recently, independent and global studios like Cartoon Saloon (Wolfwalkers, The Breadwinner) and Netflix’s Klaus have proven that 2D animation still captivates when paired with bold storytelling and refined technique.

The Future of 2D Animation: More Than Just Nostalgia

Thanks to AI-powered tools like Runway, Moho, and Adobe Character Animator, artists now animate scenes faster without compromising quality. These tools reduce frame-by-frame workload while enhancing fluidity and style.

There’s also a surge in hybrid animations—blending 2D characters with motion graphics, kinetic typography, and real-time rendering. The result? Visually engaging stories tailored for digital-first audiences.

Brands no longer just want “a pretty video.” They want memorable content that boosts retention and recall. And 2D, with its charm and clarity, fits the brief perfectly.

Conclusion

2D animation isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving in new, adaptive ways.

It balances storytelling, emotional depth, and production efficiency like no other medium. For brands, educators, marketers, and creators, it’s not a fallback—it’s a smart, scalable strategy.

And when crafted by the right video production company, 2D animation becomes more than content—it becomes a powerful storytelling asset.

FAQs

Q1. Is 2D animation outdated?

Not at all. It’s evolving with smarter tools and continues to drive modern marketing, training, and entertainment.

Q2. How long does it take to produce a 60-second 2D video?

On average, 2–3 weeks with a dedicated team of 4–6 professionals.

Q3. Which industries use 2D animation the most?

Education, SaaS, finance, healthcare, and digital marketing top the list.

Q4. Can 2D animation be used for corporate content?

Absolutely. From product explainers to internal training, 2D offers clarity and cost-efficiency.

Q5. Is 2D animation cheaper than 3D?

In most cases, yes—especially for explainer videos or brand storytelling, where reusable assets and simpler pipelines reduce costs.

Suchismita Sinha

By day I create engaging content along with infusing high-volume, low-competition keywords strategically so that it gets loved by you and Google Crawler. Off the clock? I scroll for fresh ideas. (Don’t judge, gotta fuel the creativity!)

cputek.in

Posted on 21/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

Stop Using the Wrong AI Video Tool — Here’s What Each One Was Built For

Scroll down to check the infographic that explains each tool’s best use case.

Video is now an important part of every business in this modern world. Whether you’re trying to make animated videos to simplify ideas, produce an explainer video for your product, or build a polished corporate video—the right tools make all the difference.

The correct tools are crucial whether you’re trying to create a slick corporate video, an explainer video for your product, or animated animations to help people understand concepts. Platforms with AI capabilities have proliferated, promising to do anything. In actuality, though, each one has a distinct function. Making the incorrect choice frequently results in poor outcomes, wasted effort, and frustration.

Each Tool Serves a Specific Function

Suppose you wish to create brief, shareable images from blog entries. For light, interesting material, platforms like Lumen5 or Pictory are suitable because they automate the conversion of text to video. If you want to create animated videos for social media storytelling or top-of-funnel engagement, these are fantastic.

On the other hand, if you need videos for products, especially for showcasing features or benefits in a clean, professional tone, you need more control. Tools like Runway or Animoto give creative flexibility, letting you mix custom footage, animations, music, and branding.

Then there’s Synthesia or Elai.io, perfect for internal communication or training. They create avatar-led videos in multiple languages—useful for HR updates, onboarding, and compliance training. This is where most corporate video needs are met efficiently, without full production crews.

Why This Matters for Business Videos

Businesses often make the mistake of sticking to one tool across all needs. But what works for a 60-second explainer video might fall short when producing an emotional brand film. That’s where knowing your tools pays off.

A good video production company typically tailors tools and workflows based on project goals. If you’re managing video in-house, it’s just as important to choose the right fit—whether you’re producing video and animation for marketing or training.

The best results come from aligning the right AI tool with the type of video for business you need.

To help you choose better, we’ve created a detailed infographic below. It maps the most popular AI video tools to their best use cases—whether you’re making videos for products, internal training content, or marketing campaigns.

You’ll also see which tools are better for fast content creation and which allow for more creative control.

Conclusion

Not all AI video tools are created equal. Each one is designed for a specific kind of job—from explainer video content to high-quality corporate video production. If you want to make animated videos that perform well and serve your business goals, the first step is knowing which tool to use and when.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 20/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

The AI Video Creation Flow: Human + Machine = Perfect Video

When it comes to animated video creation, the key to success isn’t about choosing between technology and creativity, it’s about how both work together. Video production has always been a platform for storytelling. But now, with AI integrated into the process, the way we plan, design, and deliver videos is shifting. Yet, at the core of every great video, there remains the essential human touch.

AI in Video Creation: A Helping Hand, Not a Replacement

AI brings enormous value to the video production company process by speeding up tasks like market research, trend analysis, and content suggestions. It helps you optimize the workflow and handle repetitive tasks, such as drafting scripts or arranging visuals.

However, AI is most effective when paired with human insight. While AI can process vast amounts of data, it lacks the ability to interpret the subtle nuances of tone, emotion, and brand voice. These are areas where a professional creative expert plays a vital role.

Why Human Expertise is Key

While AI can generate content based on data, it can’t infuse a piece with personality, tone, or authenticity. This is where human expertise really shines. Expert content creators are essential for refining AI-generated scripts, adjusting pacing, and ensuring the video feels aligned with the brand’s values.

It’s this balance of technology and human creativity that gives the content its depth. A video production company adds its touch not just by producing content but by creating a piece that resonates emotionally with the audience.

Making Animated Videos That Stand Out

When you will make animated videos that really connect, combining AI’s speed with human creativity is the key. AI handles time-consuming tasks like automating edits, syncing visuals, and producing voiceovers, but it’s up to the creative team to make sure the final result tells a compelling story.

By collaborating with AI, creators can move from concept to finished video faster, with better quality and more personalized content. The process becomes not just efficient but dynamic.

Striking the Right Balance Between AI and Human Input

The problem with relying solely on either AI or human effort is that neither alone provides the best result. AI lacks the emotional intelligence and cultural understanding to connect with an audience. On the other hand, humans can be slower and more prone to mistakes.

The perfect outcome happens when both work together. AI supports the creative process by automating the repetitive aspects, and human creators bring that extra level of insight and artistry that machines can’t provide. It’s this balance that’s at the heart of animated video creation today.

Don’t forget to check out the infographic below to get a quick, visual breakdown of how AI and human collaboration works in video creation. Whether you’re looking to improve your video production process or explore new strategies, this infographic will help you visualize how the steps come together.

Conclusion

When it comes to creating animated videos that truly resonate, the collaboration between AI and human creativity is indispensable. A video production company that embraces this combination is better equipped to produce engaging, on-brand content quickly and efficiently. At the end of the day, it’s not just about technology, it’s about crafting a story that connects with the audience on a deeper level.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 20/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

Corporate Video Production Workflow

The Actual Process of Creating a Top-Shelf Corporate Video

Ever wonder what really goes into creating a good corporate video? It’s simple to watch a 90-second explainer or product launch film and assume it all came together overnight. But behind every glossy video is a clean, structured workflow—and a team that knows how to turn ideas into reality.

Regardless of whether you’re hiring a video production agency for the first time or you’re simply interested in how these pieces come together, knowing the process helps to establish the right expectations.

It Begins with a Solid Brief

It all starts with the client brief. Consider it a roadmap. The production team must know your objective—is it to launch a product? Train staff? Increase brand visibility? That clarity upfront saves time and prevents confusion down the line.

A good brief will have information on your brand, your audience, tone of voice, and key messages. For instance, a tech startup may need a contemporary, quick-paced video to capture attention on LinkedIn. A healthcare business may require a more relaxed, informative tone for internal staff training.

From Idea to Script

Once the brief is in, the creative team dives into developing concepts. That’s when ideas are formed into something that is visual and interesting. Next is scripting—the video’s backbone. This section isn’t only about words; it’s about structure, pacing, and ensuring the message goes through clearly.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a live shoot or an animated video; everything gets planned to the second before cameras start rolling or animation starts.

Production and Editing

If you’re filming, this is where the crew comes in—director, camera operator, lighting, and sound. For animated videos, this is when the design team brings visuals and movement to your script.

After production, the editing team gets to work—cutting footage, adjusting colors, adding music, voiceovers, and branded graphics. This stage can involve a couple of feedback rounds to make sure the final version matches your vision.

And Then, Delivery

After all is approved, the final video is then exported in formats that are suitable for your platforms—YouTube, your site, email marketing, or social media. A good video production company will advise you on what formats you’ll require based on where the video will be hosted.

Check the infographic below to view the entire video production process—step-by-step.

Conclusion

At first glance, creating a video might seem like just “filming something,” but the truth is—it’s a process. Every phase, from briefing to delivery, matters. Working with a professional video production agency means you’re not just hiring someone to shoot a video; you’re partnering with a team that knows how to make the message stick.

So the next time you see a spick-and-span, interesting corporate video, you’ll appreciate just how much effort went into each shot.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 19/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

The Corporate Video Ecosystem

When you think of corporate videos, what comes to your mind? For many, it’s actors on set with cameras and lights capturing the action. But that’s not how we operate. At our video production company, we specialize in creating corporate videos entirely using animation, without the need for live-action scenes. This means that the video production process, while still comprehensive and detailed, looks a bit different.

The infographic below is a visual guide of how we handle the process of making corporate videos, from concept to final delivery more creatively and practically.

Pre-Production: Planning the Animated Video

Plenty of thinking and planning occurs before starting the animation process. At our corporate video production company, the initial phase of actual work occurs during pre-production where a basic idea transforms into a complete video.

Concept Development: Defining the Vision

The first step of our process involves teaming up with clients for brainstorms where we understand their video objectives. Which key message should the company transmit through this content? Who’s the target audience? How should the video affect the viewing experience of our audience? Our creative department merges concepts which align with corporate branding for the clients alongside audience considerations.

We move on to the precise details after we establish the fundamental structure. Our team develops the story structure and examines the animation methods that will make the story most effective while building easy-to-understand visuals for complex concepts. The stage requires patience since it must perfectly match the client’s marketing objectives.

Scriptwriting: Turning Ideas into Words

Next, we write the script. The scriptwriting process remains simple since we deliver information straightforwardly for everyone to understand. Scriptwriting stands as a crucial element for animated corporate video because dialogue must sync with visual screen content. The successful execution of our videos depends on the perfect pacing since we must avoid both hastiness and slowness. The language within scripts remains conversational and we choose script tones that match brand personality either formal or friendly or humorous.

Storyboarding: Visualizing the Story

Moving forward with script development enables the creation of visual scene representations. The storyboard process involves drawing out visual representations of every scene instead of keeping it as notes. Creating a storyboard enables us to design animations through visualizing character movement while structuring the video’s sequence. This stage enables us to create visuals for text elements and graphical displays. The script calls for product feature representation so we choose between animated graphics and illustrations.

Production: Crafting the Animation

With the planning done, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and start bringing everything to life. This stage is where the magic happens.

Animation Design: Building the Visuals

Our animators begin their work when the storyboard passes its review stage. The production team utilizes industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects, Toon Boom and Blender to construct every element from its foundational stage. Our team implements visual execution based on the selected animation style which could be 2D, 3D or motion graphics to maintain alignment with the original design concept.

The animation team transforms static images into moving characters through the process of animating every movement in the project. The process relies on precise timing because we evaluate characters’ environmental relationships and naturalistic storytelling behaviors. Creating a smooth sequence of events requires our team to work like a puzzle team by assembling components while making adjustments until everything functions perfectly.

Creative Direction: Defining the Style

Through animation we gain artistic capabilities which live-action productions fail to provide. Our creative group collaborates directly with animators throughout the production period to establish the video’s creative presentation. Animation depends on color choices which either create a playful ambiance through bright hues or establish a formal presentation atmosphere through muted tones that should align with the brand identity. Every visual element including fonts alongside character design aligns exactly with the client’s branding principles.

Our latest work included producing a video advertisement for a technology-based organization. The design featured plain vector artwork together with a professional selection of colors that formed its aesthetic basis. We implemented quick and colorful animations and lively transitions on that startup’s project to demonstrate their energetic brand personality. The essential thing is to use proper storytelling methods coupled with visual display that suits the content.

Post-Production: Fine-Tuning and Final Touches

The animation finishes at this stage for the final production phase. Post-production plays a vital role in completing animated projects since it transcends basic audio addition and video editing tasks. The finishing step serves to ensure everything achieves a polished professional look.

Editing the Animation: Bringing it All Together

We move to editing work following completion of the animation creation phase. Adobe Premiere Pro enables us to link animated sequences together while establishing perfect timing through the editing process. During editing we must cut and adjust the animation to produce a smooth transition between all scenes. At this stage we examine visual elements to confirm that all frames integrate perfectly together.

We utilize AI-based applications for video enhancement such as optimization of quality and effect integration and transitional suggestions. Time efficiency improves through these tools which allow our team to dedicate more attention to video creation tasks.

Sound Design: Adding the Finishing Touches

Video animation depends primarily on visual elements yet sound functions as the essential component which brings animations to full vitality. We incorporate voice overs along with background music and sound effects after the animation production phase to enhance the visual elements. Audio production involves professional voice artist recording services that deliver clear professional narrations matching the animation style. The sound effects follow a strategic sequence to enhance the narrative without engulfing the visual elements.

When a video character discusses complicated information the background audio stays minimal to maintain an unobstructed messaging flow. The music volume in a product demo video needs increased energy levels because it needs to fit the animation speed.

Final Review: Getting Client Approval

Here, at our corporate video production agency, we perform a final review with the client once all sound elements and visual effects are completed. Here we verify that everything satisfies their demands. We perform a final inspection that includes a comparison for recent modifications and evaluation of both the timing sequence and verification against the established video goals. The completion of the final product becomes possible after the client grants their approval.

To get a clear view of how all these stages work together, check out the infographic below. It offers a visual guide to the entire video production process, making it easy to see how each part connects and contributes to the final result at our corporate video production company.

Conclusion

Careful attention to planning and detailed work defines the entire process of producing an animated corporate video. Our team puts effort into every production to maintain client brand presence while conveying the intended message with engaging creative elements.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 19/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

Hand-Drawn vs CGI in the Largest Animation Studios – What’s Winning?

Introduction

Years ago, animation began with simple flip books—sequential drawings that gave the illusion of motion when flipped quickly. From there, the journey moved into cel animation, painstakingly crafted by artists frame by frame. Today, the art has evolved into CGI—computer-generated imagery that delivers hyper-realistic motion and depth, changing how we experience animated stories.

As the landscape of animation changes, animation studios like Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, and Studio Ghibli have become pioneers of their respective styles. While some fully embraced the digital shift, others have continued to preserve traditional hand-drawn artistry.

This evolution raises a compelling question: Has CGI become the new standard, or does hand-drawn animation still hold its artistic ground?

Data Point: According to Allied Market Research, the global 3D animation market stood at $18.9 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $51 billion by 2031—a clear indicator of how digital animation is shaping the future.

The Golden Age of Hand-Drawn Animation

Before high-powered render engines and digital rigs, animation was crafted by hand—literally. Hand-drawn animation involves creating each frame manually, typically at 12–24 frames per second. It’s an art form built on precision, rhythm, and style. Despite the effort involved, the results have often defined cinematic milestones.

Consider Disney classics like The Lion King (1994) and Beauty and the Beast (1991)—films that not only captured hearts worldwide but also showcased the emotional power of expressive, human-made drawings. Meanwhile, in Japan, Studio Ghibli mastered this technique, becoming globally renowned for its artistry and storytelling depth.

Case Study:

Ghibli’s Spirited Away (2001), fully hand-drawn, became a worldwide sensation. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and earned $395 million at the global box office. Fast forward to 2023, their film The Boy and the Heron proved that traditional animation still resonates. Despite being fully hand-drawn, it grossed $165 million, reinforcing the global appetite for this nostalgic and emotional style.

Hand-drawn animation, while no longer the default for many video production companies, continues to carry unmatched cultural weight and artistic charm. Its uniqueness lies in imperfection—every stroke feels personal.

The Rise and Reign of CGI

As animation embraced technology, CGI quickly emerged as the dominant force. The process involves multiple steps: 3D modeling to shape characters and environments, rigging to allow movement, lighting to simulate natural shadows and highlights, and rendering to produce final images. Together, these steps create highly polished, lifelike visuals.

The advantage lies in speed, scalability, and realism. Unlike hand-drawn frames that must be crafted individually, CGI assets can be reused, modified, and repurposed efficiently. It also allows for complex camera movements, visual effects, and consistency across scenes.

Major animation studios such as Pixar, DreamWorks, and Illumination have made CGI their default production method. The results speak volumes.

Examples:

Frozen II (2019): CGI, global box office revenue of $1.45 billion.
Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022): CGI, earned $940 million globally.
Toy Story 4 (2019): CGI, won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, grossed $1.07 billion.

Stat:

Over 90% of animated films released by major studios in the last decade have used CGI, reflecting the widespread industry shift.

The preference is not just stylistic—video production companies favor CGI for its flexibility in storytelling and efficiency in high-volume content creation.

Production Economics: Cost, Time, and Manpower

When it comes to production logistics, the contrast between hand-drawn animation and CGI becomes even clearer.

Hand-drawn animation demands immense manual effort. At 12–24 unique drawings per second, even a one-minute sequence could involve over 1,000 illustrations. This approach typically requires more artists and more time, increasing the overall cost per minute of footage.

On the other hand, CGI involves a significant upfront investment in technology, software, and hardware. However, once the character models and environments are created, they can be animated, rendered, and reused with far less manual input. Over time, this makes CGI more scalable and cost-effective.

Example:

The Princess and the Frog (2009), a traditionally animated film, had a production budget of $105 million and grossed $270 million globally.
In comparison, Frozen (2013), created using CGI, cost around $150 million but earned over $1.28 billion worldwide—showing a significantly greater return on investment.

This economic advantage explains why both animation studios and video production companies increasingly turn to CGI for large-scale projects.

Storytelling, Style, and Audience Perception

The storytelling format and visual style of a film heavily influence how audiences connect with it. CGI has become synonymous with realism and immersive detail. Films like Avatar or Lightyear showcase expansive worlds with complex lighting and dynamic camera work—features made possible by advanced rendering techniques.

In contrast, hand-drawn animation retains a unique artistic identity. Its imperfections, stylized lines, and personal touch offer a sense of charm and emotional nostalgia that CGI sometimes lacks. Many anime titles and children’s series still prefer this approach because the target audience associates it with warmth and tradition.

Audience insight:

A 2022 YouGov survey revealed that 61% of viewers aged 30 and above felt more emotionally connected to hand-drawn films from their childhood. This perception reinforces why some animation studios continue to support 2D content in specific genres, even as CGI leads the market.

The emotional tone, artistic vision, and audience expectations often dictate the technique, with video production companies choosing based on the story they want to tell.

Case Study Comparison: Disney & Pixar

When comparing the approach of two of the most influential animation studios, the transition from hand-drawn to CGI becomes clearly visible.

Disney dominated the 1990s with hand-drawn hits like The Lion King and Mulan. However, after the 2010s, it shifted almost entirely to CGI. Titles like Tangled, Frozen, and Moana not only became box-office successes but also reshaped the studio’s creative direction.

Pixar, on the other hand, was built around CGI from the beginning. Toy Story (1995) was the world’s first full-length CGI animated feature. Its success marked a turning point, proving that digital characters could drive emotional, narrative-driven stories.

Comparison Example:

The Princess and the Frog (2009), Disney’s return to hand-drawn animation, earned $270 million globally and received positive reviews. However, it didn’t match the commercial success of CGI counterparts.

Frozen (2013), created with CGI, grossed over $1.28 billion and generated massive merchandising revenue, including toys, apparel, and theme park integration.

Disney’s 2012 short film Paperman attempted to merge both techniques. It used hand-drawn lines over CGI models, creating a visually distinct hybrid. The film won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short, suggesting that combining traditional warmth with digital precision could be a path forward.

Hybrid Approaches: The Future of Animation?

As technology evolves, animation studios are no longer bound to choose strictly between CGI and 2D Animation. A growing trend is the fusion of both techniques to achieve new artistic styles and visual effects.

Films like Klaus (Netflix, 2019) use 2D character animation enhanced by CGI-driven lighting to create a three-dimensional feel while maintaining the softness of hand-drawn art. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (Sony, 2018) took this further by integrating comic book textures, frame-breaking compositions, and stylized motion to deliver a groundbreaking aesthetic.

Data point:

Spider-Verse earned $375 million worldwide and received widespread praise for its visual experimentation. It also won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, demonstrating that audiences appreciate innovation over convention.

For video production companies, this hybrid model allows creative flexibility. They can blend the emotional depth of traditional techniques with the visual impact and scalability of CGI—offering the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

CGI has become the dominant force in modern animation, driven by economic efficiency, scalability, and widespread audience appeal. Its realistic rendering and technical flexibility make it the go-to choice for major animation studios and blockbuster productions. Yet, hand-drawn animation endures—especially in niche genres, indie productions, and global markets like Japan—where its emotional depth and artistry still captivate viewers. Ultimately, the choice between CGI and hand-drawn is not about superiority, but storytelling. As technology evolves, the future lies in hybrid approaches that combine traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation, offering fresh creative possibilities to storytellers and video production companies alike.

FAQs

1. Why do most modern animation studios prefer CGI?

CGI offers faster production pipelines, reusable assets, and more realistic visuals, making it more cost-effective and scalable for large studios.

2. Are hybrid animation styles becoming more common?

Yes. Films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Klaus show how blending 2D and CGI can create visually innovative and award-winning results.

3. Can small video production companies use CGI?

Absolutely. With accessible software and cloud rendering tools, even small video production companies can now produce high-quality CGI content.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 16/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

How Your Story Is Elevated by the Correct Music

It takes more than just picking a catchy tune to choose the ideal background music. It all comes down to aligning the tone you wish to convey to your audience.

Positive Corporate video can create excitement when a new product is being introduced or a business victory is being celebrated. A moving cinematic track can really bring your message home if you’re telling an inspirational tale about your company or your people.

Additionally, ambient music can create the ideal mood for videos that must remain clear and concise, such as training sessions or company overviews, without detracting from your main point.

Soft Acoustic provides a cozy, authentic vibe for more intimate tales, such as staff interviews or behind-the-scenes glimpses. Electronic chillout music keeps discussions about innovation, future technology, and startups current, sleek, and innovative.

Adapting Music to the Objective

Not every video belongs in every genre.

You should consider your message, your audience, and the impression you wish to leave. Good music should always compliment your images rather than overpower them, acting as a silent teammate.

When done correctly, your video gives your audience a genuine experience rather than merely imparting knowledge.

Are you wondering what kinds of music work best for various corporate video formats?

View our infographic below for a concise, practical guide to the Top 5 Corporate Video Background Music Genres, complete with useful images and suggestions!

Top 5 Genres for Corporate Video Background Music

Conclusion

The mood of a corporate video can be totally altered by music. Picking a good video production company is crucial, it can increase enthusiasm, foster trust, and even humanize a brand.

It’s evident when the video production agency you hired takes the time to choose the ideal background music.So, when you begin your next project, make sure your soundtrack is on point as well as the visuals.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 16/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

Animated Videos vs. Live Shoots: The ROI Numbers Every CMO Needs to See

Introduction

In a world of constantly diversifying marketing strategies, animation videos and live shoot videos both possess significant potential for promoting brands and communicating the brand message to their ideal consumers. However, when comparing the amount of return on investment (ROI), certain differences are noticed.

As a CMO, every marketing decision you make is tied to ROI, and when it comes to video content, animated videos often deliver more value than live shoots. Whether you’re focused on conversions, scalability, or brand consistency, animation tends to outperform in both effectiveness and cost.

In this blog, we’ll explain why animation is often the smarter choice for CMOs, comparing it with live-action in terms of cost, production time, and long-term impact across different use cases.

The Cost of Production for Animated Videos and Live Shoot Videos

The amount of production cost is one of the critical elements influencing the ROI. One of the leading drawbacks of shooting live videos is that they tend to require a lot of investment before shooting, which can be detrimental to the marketing budget of a company that needs to create multiple videos partnering with an animated video production company. Consider the following breakdown:

Production Costs of Live Action Videos/ Live Shoots:

Actors and Talent: Professional actors typically cost between ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000 per day, depending on their experience and role in the video.
Location and Set Design: Renting a location for a shoot can range from ₹50,000 to ₹5,00,000 per day, depending on the venue and complexity, plus additional costs for set design, props, and crew.
Crew and Equipment: A typical crew (director, cameramen, sound technicians, etc.) can cost anywhere from ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 per day, not including equipment rentals.
Post-production: Editing and post-production (color grading, sound mixing, visual effects) often add another ₹1,50,000 to ₹5,00,000 to the total cost.

Considering all these elements, a high-quality live-action video could easily cost you anywhere between ₹7,00,000 to ₹25,00,000 or more for a single production, depending on its complexity.

Animated Video Production Costs:

In turn, there are multiple affordable types of animated videos, including explainer videos or short, simple character animations. A typical animated video production involves:

Storyboarding and Scriptwriting: Typically, this phase can be completed at a fixed rate of around ₹75,000 to ₹2,00,000.
Animation: Depending on the complexity (2D or 3D animation), the cost for animation can range from ₹2,00,000 to ₹12,00,000.
Voiceover and Sound Design: High-quality voice-overs, sound effects, and background music will add around ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000.

The total cost for an animated video ranges from ₹3,00,000 to ₹15,00,000, with much of the cost variability based on animation style and video length.

Time Requirements for Animated Videos and Live Shoot Videos

As for time, live-action videos are complex since they entail talent coordination, location scouting, Equipment preparation, shooting, and editing time. Production time starts from pre-production and can take 6 to 12 weeks or even more, depending on its specifics.

As for animated videos, the process is typically less complicated. Once the script and storyboard are confirmed with the client, animation studios take 4-8 weeks to complete the video because this form of animation isn’t reliant on variables like weather, talent acquisition, among others.

ROI Breakdown: Animated Videos vs. Live Action Videos

Increased Engagement

Various studies indicate that any given animated video receives better engagement as compared to any live-action video. Explainer animations have been shown to increase engagement by an average of 80% higher than regular animated videos. Making the concepts more understandable while incorporating fun and great graphics ensures viewers spend more time on the content making the chances of conversion better.

For instance, a SaaS firm using an animated explainer video would reach up to 40 % conversions from individuals who viewed the video whereas firms using live action explainer video would experience between 10-15 % increase in conversions. This goes to show that animated videos grab the attention more than any other method, thus making more of an impact and increasing profits.

Conversion Rate

Animated videos are one of the most effective means of communication since they serve to drive conversions. According to a research conducted by Video Brewery and Vidyard, viewers are 97% more likely to buy after watching an animated explainer video. This figure shows how concise visualizations can help render abstract concepts easily understandable and foster action.

Conversely, conversion rates for live-action videos usually rise by approximately 20-30 percent. As entertaining as they are, these formats can sometimes fail to simplify complex concepts and maintain audience interest in today’s digital landscape.

Brand Recognition

Animated videos are also a good way to boost brand awareness. As a tool, animations can be incredible for their style and the choice of the color range, and the inclusion of the personal characters and illustrations. Of course, this creative freedom is easier in animation, whereas with live-action shows and series actors and the set designs restrict the brand’s possibilities.

According to research done by Wyzowl, 91% of marketers said that video aids in brand recognition. Animated videos, however, are typically more effective because they feel fresh, creative, and can incorporate visualization into the content, making it better for brand association. Animated videos are much more effective at creating an enduring impression due to the incorporation of visual elements specific to the business.

Comparison of ROI Metrics

Metric	Animation Videos	Live Shoot Videos
Cost of Production	₹3,00,000 to ₹15,00,000	₹7,00,000 to ₹25,00,000
Average Conversion Rate	4% (Average)	2% (Average)
Average View Count	Higher, as per recent trends	Lower than animated videos
Click-Through Rate (CTR)	Higher than live-action videos	Lower than animation
Customer Retention Rate	Higher due to higher engagement and clearer messaging	Moderate
Total Revenue (Assumed 50k views)	$200,000 (assuming a 4% conversion rate, $100 per sale)	$200,000 (assuming a 2% conversion rate, $100 per sale)
ROI Percentage	3900% (calculated on $5,000 production cost, $200,000 revenue)	300% (calculated on $50,000 production cost, $200,000 revenue)

Industry-Specific Benefits of Animated Videos

Different industries can reap specific benefits from animated videos:

Tech and Software Companies: Animated explainer videos are perhaps the most effective when it comes to the illustration of how software functions. Animation is much more effective in explaining the process than using a large amount of text and complex terms, like in most cases when presenting technical information. This leads to increase in user adoption rates and better customer satisfaction levels.
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: Through animated videos, the healthcare and pharmaceutical companies can be in a position to illustrate some procedures or some medical ideas into understandable models for medical practitioners and other ordinary people. Whether one wants to describe a new treatment or wants patients to know about a certain disease, animation is very helpful.
Corporate Training: Animated videos are considered to be very useful for corporate training. The fact that it is self-administered means that employees can go through the training material at their own convenience and at their own speed, and they can always go back to the material when they want and revise. Animation packages enhance engagement, thus promoting better understanding of lessons taught in class.
E-commerce: For online businesses, animated videos can demonstrate how a product can be used, help a buyer through the checkout process, or inform customers of the return policies in amusing ways. This creates confidence in customers and makes them willing to buy the product.

Why Animation Wins the ROI Race

When considering the ROI of animated videos versus live-action videos, several key advantages make animation the superior choice:

Lower Initial Investment: Animated videos are generally more affordable to produce than live-action videos.
Higher Engagement and Conversion: Animated videos see higher engagement rates, with research indicating 97% of viewers are more likely to buy after watching an animated explainer video.
Long-Term Flexibility: Animation allows for easy updates, making it more adaptable and cost-effective for businesses with evolving products.
Industry-Specific Benefits: Animation excels in industries such as technology, healthcare, and e-commerce, where explaining complex ideas is essential.

FAQs

1. Which is better, animated or live-action?

As far as goals are concerned, for marketing or branding purposes, animation is more effective. It’s more flexible, easier to update, and grabs attention fast, especially online.

2. What’s more expensive, live-action or animation?

Live-action usually costs more. Overall, you are spending money on cameras, crews, actors, location, and editing. Animation gets rid of all that, and offers you a budget-friendly production cost.

3. What takes longer, live-action or animated?

Doing live-action takes much time due to the planning, shooting schedules, and retakes. Animation is far easier in this aspect, you can adjust some aspects of your animation video without hiring a whole team again.

4. What are the benefits of using animation over real life?

Animation is best because it allows you to have full creativity while working on projects. You can promote anything, products, ideas or data in a fun and clear way Also, there is no concern of place and searching for the right talent.

Conclusion

Animated videos have a higher potential in terms of ROI compared to live-action videos. Not only are they cheaper to create, but they are also more effective than live-action videos in terms of engagement, conversion rates, and brand awareness. If a business has a finite budget for advertising or marketing and would like to get more than its money’s worth, then animation is the ideal shot to take.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 16/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

Industries That NEED Animated eLearning Safety Videos

Why Safety Training Needs to Evolve

Workplace safety is not just about following rules—it’s about protecting lives. Whether it’s a factory floor, a construction site, or a hospital, employees face risks every day. Traditional safety training often relies on lengthy manuals, dull presentations, and forgettable lectures. But is that enough?

Accidents happen when information isn’t clear or engaging enough to be remembered. That’s where animated eLearning videos are making a difference. They simplify complex safety procedures, making them easy to understand and apply in real situations.

The Power of Visual Learning

Most people learn better through visuals. A safety manual might explain how to operate heavy machinery safely, but a well-crafted animation shows exactly how it’s done. Employees can see real-life scenarios, step-by-step instructions, and potential hazards—all in a way that sticks with them.

For industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, where mistakes can be life-threatening, animated videos ensure that safety guidelines are clear and memorable. They break down complicated processes into simple, digestible visuals, reducing the risk of human error.

Why Animated Training Works

Animated safety training is not just about visuals—it’s about engagement. Unlike text-heavy documents or outdated slideshows, animations keep the audience focused. They highlight dangers, demonstrate best practices, and provide interactive experiences that reinforce learning.

With the flexibility of animation, companies can create industry-specific training, whether it’s about handling hazardous chemicals, responding to emergencies, or operating specialized equipment. The best part? Employees can watch and rewatch whenever needed, ensuring continuous learning.

Safety Training for Every Industry

From food processing to aviation, different industries have different risks. A factory worker needs to understand machine safety, while a pilot must know emergency procedures. One-size-fits-all training doesn’t work.

That’s why businesses across multiple sectors are shifting to animated eLearning for safety training. It’s cost-effective, scalable, and easily customizable to fit industry-specific needs. More importantly, it prepares employees for real-world situations in a way that traditional training can’t.

See the Infographic Below

Want to know which industries benefit the most from animated eLearning safety videos? Check out the infographic below. It breaks down the key sectors where visual training is making workplaces safer and more efficient.

Conclusion

Workplace safety should never be an afterthought. Companies that invest in engaging and effective training protect their employees and reduce risks. Animated eLearning isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of workplace safety.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 02/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha

Why Automotive Brands Should Use 3D Videos for Product Launches

Automotive brands are increasingly turning to 3D videos for product launches, and for good reason. These videos provide a dynamic and engaging way to showcase vehicles, allowing potential customers to experience features and functionalities in a visually captivating manner.

What Are 3D Videos?

3D videos utilize computer-generated imagery (CGI) to create realistic animations of vehicles. They can demonstrate complex technologies, such as autonomous driving systems or advanced safety features, in a way that is easy for consumers to understand. For instance, Tesla has effectively showcased its autopilot features through 3D animations that illustrate how the vehicle navigates and responds to its environment.

How 3D Videos Enhance Customer Engagement

3D videos significantly enhance customer engagement during automotive product launches by providing immersive, interactive experiences that capture attention and facilitate deeper understanding of the product.

Immersive Visualization

These videos allow potential customers to visualize vehicles realistically. Unlike traditional videos, 3D animations showcase intricate details of a car’s design and features from multiple angles. This level of detail helps customers appreciate the vehicle’s aesthetics and functionality, leading to more informed purchasing decisions.

Interactive Experiences

The interactivity provided by 3D videos enables potential buyers to engage with the content actively. Customers can explore different configurations, colors, and features in real-time, fostering a sense of ownership. A study by the International Data Corporation (IDC) revealed that companies using immersive technologies like 3D videos report a 40% increase in consumer engagement at product launches .

Enhanced Brand Recall

Research indicates that brands incorporating 3D content into their marketing strategies can see brand recall increase by up to 50% . This heightened recall is crucial in a competitive market where consumers are bombarded with information from various sources.

Increased Engagement Metrics

Statistics show that video content is far more engaging than static images or text. For instance, 90% of consumers engage more with visual content, and events incorporating interactive technologies report a 33% increase in audience engagement.

Statistical Insights

Higher Purchase Intent: According to Gartner, users exposed to 3D product animations are 35% more likely to buy a product .
Brand Recall: Companies leveraging 3D video content have reported up to a 50% increase in brand recall among viewers.
Video Marketing Growth: Video marketing in the U.S. is projected to grow by 9.93% in 2024, highlighting the increasing importance of video content in marketing strategies.

Brands Benefiting from 3D Videos

Prominent automotive brands are already reaping the rewards of using 3D videos:

Tesla: Known for its innovative approach, Tesla uses 3D animations extensively in its marketing campaigns to explain complex features simply and effectively.
Sony: The tech giant utilized 3D animations for their earbuds, showcasing features like noise cancellation in a visually stunning way that went viral on social media, garnering over 260K views .
Giants like Wacom, BMW, Pulsio have been leveraging these benefits for a number of years which are visibly reflected in their market graph.

For a visual representation of these insights, check out the infographic below! This version includes sources next to each statistic for clarity and credibility.

In conclusion, incorporating 3D videos into product launches not only enhances engagement but also simplifies complex information for consumers. As automotive brands continue to innovate, the use of such technology will likely become standard practice.

Suchismita Sinha

cputek.in

Posted on 02/06/2025 by Suchismita Sinha