What inspired you to start an animation studio and what has the journey been like so far?
I’ve always been fond of the outdoors and nature, I’ve always had an interest in fixing and improving things, I find new technology fascinating. This was my opportunity to tell the stories of inspiring brands who are making the world a better place.
After working with loads of big brands and many different studios I felt something was missing, and as the initial thoughts of starting my own business rolled around my head, I discovered it was project ownership and project purpose.
I didn’t want to work with anyone and everyone, and this was my chance to change that.
I founded Studio Till to allow me to work directly with clients. Clients who are specifically focused on sustainability, purpose & impact and innovative technology. I much prefer to have a direct working relationship with clients and enjoy building those relationships.
The journey so far has been a rollercoaster of ups, downs and many challenges, but the projects and clients that I’ve worked with so far have been extremely rewarding!
What sets your studio apart from others in the 3D and 2D animation industry?
Studio Till is a design led animation studio working specifically with clients in the sustainability and climate technology space. We strive to support brands who positively impact the world around us. We help these brands to communicate their stories through animation.
Our blend of creativity and passion allows us to support new tech start-ups with animated prototypes and 3D visuals to bolster their investment pitches. As well as supporting established brands communicating a new narrative.
Why do you believe business should embrace 3D and 2D animation in their marketing strategies?
In all digital marketing strategies, gaining and holding attention is so important and animation is extremely good at doing that. It is engaging, creative and impactful. Animation works well across short form content, delivering the message quickly and effectively.
Animation is fantastic at explaining complex projects with visual creativity. It can make the invisible, visible – for example portraying prototypes, data, technology and how they work. It’s extremely difficult to market a product without impactful visuals, 3D renders are a great solution for new technology which does not yet physically exist.
What advantages does animation have over traditional marketing formats like photography or live action?
Animation is a powerful tool which allows us to visualise the invisible. Data connections and calculations in technology for example, is a very complex subject to explain and visualise. 3D Animation empowers businesses to showcase ideas, processes, or technologies that are otherwise challenging to represent visually.
In addition 3D Animation is ideal for marketing a product that is not yet physically available. At Studio Till we can create the product virtually in 3D, allowing the client to present to investors, stakeholders or future customers before the product even exists.
What's the creative process like at your studio from concept to final animation?
We start off with a ‘Discovery Call’ and we listen. We hear about your problems and how we discuss how we might solve it together.
To start with we visualise some initial ideas as mood boards and style frames. This will go on to form parts of the storyboard. After the film has a complete storyboard, animation can begin. Along with sound and voice over this will form an Animatic, a work in progress animation.
We like to work in collaboration with our clients and you will feel part of the process, this regular communication allows for regular feedback ensuring you are always happy with the progress.
What trends do you see emerging in the animation world and how are you incorporating them into your work?
Fake Out Of Home (FOOH) animations are gaining popularity at the moment. This gives the impression of an out of home campaign existing in the real world but it's actually created using tracked footage with an animation overlaid and composited to look real. The additional benefit is that movement can be added as apposed to a physical static installation.
For example Hotel Chocolate recently created this social FOOH which released on Instagram.
What advice would you give to businesses considering their first animated project?
Commissioning your first animation, if you're new to the industry, can be a bit daunting so I'd suggest speaking to a professional, whether that be a freelancer or an agency. This will give you an understanding of the process and what is required from both parties. You can read a more about our process on the website and you can book a discovery call with us here (even if you just want to ask a few questions!)
If this resonates with you and you see how it could elevate your brand’s marketing, we’d love to chat! Drop us an email at hello@studiotill.co.uk or visit our website to book a discovery call.