You do not need a finished script or a folder full of storyboards to start a conversation about animation. An idea, a problem to explain or a product to introduce can be enough.

I’m Richie Phillips, a freelance motion designer, animator and VFX artist based in Leicester. I can take a project through the whole process or join an agency or in-house team at the stage where support is needed. Here is how I approach getting an idea moving.

Start with what the film needs to do

Before thinking about a particular animation style, it helps to understand the audience and the message. Who is watching? What should they understand, feel or do afterwards? Where will the film appear?

An animated explainer, a social video and a piece of broadcast motion graphics have different jobs. Knowing the intended use gives the creative work a clear direction.

For a more detailed checklist, read how to brief a motion designer. For our first conversation, useful things to share include:

  • The main message and who it is for
  • Where you want to use the finished animation
  • Any brand guidelines, designs, footage or existing script
  • A few references and what you like about them
  • Your deadline, budget and who will give feedback

It is fine if some of those answers are still taking shape. We can work through them together.

Shape the idea before animating

Once the brief is clear, the next step is to work out how the story will unfold. That might involve shaping a script, developing a visual direction or putting together storyboards.

This is the point to check that the message makes sense and the design feels right for your brand. Agreeing the direction gives us something concrete to work towards when the animation starts.

Bring the design to life

Animation adds movement, timing and character to the agreed idea. Depending on the project, that could mean motion graphics, character animation, visual effects or a combination of footage and animated elements.

We can agree how to review the work as part of the brief. Gathering comments from the people who need to approve it helps keep feedback clear and gives us a useful basis for refining the film.

Plan the final versions early

Tell me where the film will be used before we get too far into production. If you need different aspect ratios, shorter edits or language versions, discussing them early helps us plan the work and agree the deliverables.

Already have a creative team?

You may have the idea and designs ready and simply need someone to get stuck in. I’m happy to animate supplied storyboards, contribute ideas or work alongside your existing team.

I work remotely and on site, with Leicester as my base and availability across the Midlands and London. Share the location, dates and type of support you need so we can talk through the arrangements.

Whether you need a whole project or agency freelance support, you’ll work directly with me. Get in touch with what you have in mind.