Not every business is self-explanatory. That's why explainer videos are such a great tool for business owners. However, there are so many different styles of explainer videos out there, it can be overwhelming to sort through them all and decide which is right for your business. To make it easy, let's break down the three most popular styles of animated explainer videos that come across our studio. First of all, what is an explainer video? If this is your first time hearing the term "explainer video", don't worry. I guarantee you've seen hundreds, if not thousands, of them in your lifetime. To put it simply, an explainer video is any short-form video that helps explain a product or service. Explainer videos can be a great way to "kill two birds with one stone" with your marketing budget . Not only can you use the video for advertising, but you're also educating your target audience about who you are and what you do. Now that you know what explainer videos are and why they're beneficial, let's talk about the three most popular styles and their respective pros and cons. 1. Icon Explainer Videos Icon Explainer Videos primarily use iconography to illustrate their concept. Here's an example from our studio: Pros: The modern style lends itself to a sense of timelessness The fast pacing increases viewer engagement If your target audience spans several demographics, using icons can be more inclusive Cons: Without a character to follow, there is less emotional attachment If you don't yet have a branding toolkit for your company, it may be difficult to determine the right style and colors for the icons 2. Whiteboard Animations Whiteboard Animation is a style that imitates drawing on a dry-erase whiteboard, and they're generally associated with educational-style content. Here's an example from our studio: Pros: Because each illustration is appearing to be drawn in real-time, it's easy for viewers to pay attention Generally more cost-effective to make Cons: The associations with educational content is so strong, it would be difficult to use for other industries Generally not as colorful as other animation styles 3. Narrative Explainer Videos Narrative Explainer Videos are videos that tell a story using one or more characters. Here's an example from our studio: Pros: Storytelling is the best way to produce favorable emotional responses in your audience Easy for the viewer to identify with the character Cons: More time-consuming to create, since it's utilizing character animation Okay, I know which explainer video I want for my company. What next? Once you've gone through the different types of explainer videos and decided which one works best for your business, the next step is to schedule a consultation. While some styles are generally more cost-effective than others, there is no way to accurately determine the timeline and costs of a project until we've had a chance to review your project requirements. Whether you'd like to know more about explainer videos or you're wanting a cost-effort analysis for your project, you're welcome to schedule a free consultation

At Kris Animation Studio, we pride ourselves on bringing ideas to life through the art of 2D animation. Whether you're a business looking to convey your message or an independent filmmaker aiming to tell a captivating story, our process is designed to deliver exceptional results. Here’s an inside look at how we take your project from concept to completion. 1. Consultation Every successful project at Kris Animation Studio starts with a free consultation to ensure we have a clear understanding of your vision and goals. We'll ask you for reference videos, which is a fancy term for videos that exemplify the style of animation you like. This way, everyone is on the same page in terms of the visual style. We will also ask you what assets you will be providing (if any). Some clients come to us with a script, storyboard, and artwork ready to go, and all they need from us is to animate it! Other clients prefer that we create everything from scratch. Depending on your starting point, the 2D animation process and timeline will vary. By providing a no-cost initial consultation, we can explore ideas, answer questions, and demonstrate our commitment to delivering high-quality animation that aligns with your unique needs. 2. Pre-Production After the consultation, the next step is pre-production. This is where we create all the assets that will be needed for the animation. (If you're providing all the assets, we just skip this step.) The script gets written first, which outlines the narrative, dialogue, and key actions, serving as the blueprint for the entire animation. Once the script is approved by you, our next step is to visualize your story through storyboarding. This crucial stage allows us to plan the flow of the animation and ensure that every scene contributes to the overall narrative. Storyboard for 'Freeze Out' Animated Music Video After the storyboard is completed and approved, our talented designers focus on creating the characters, backgrounds, and other visual components that will bring your story to life. We develop distinct characters, considering every detail from appearance to personality to movement, and immersive settings that enhance the narrative and complement the characters. This stage is where the unique visual style of your project takes shape, laying the groundwork for a cohesive and engaging animation. 3. Animation Production Now comes the heart of our process—animation production. This is where the magic happens, as our artists bring your static designs to life through movement and timing, and we add in any voiceovers, sound effects, and music tracks. During this stage, your project truly comes to life, with each element moving in harmony to tell your story. 4. Post-Production and Final Edits Post-production at Kris Animation Studio involves meticulous editing, thorough reviews, and any necessary adjustments to ensure the highest quality. In addition to incorporating your notes, our team reviews the entire animation to ensure that timing, pacing, and overall flow meet our high standards. After completing these final steps, your 2D animated video is ready to be shared with the world! Background for 'Freeze Out' Animated Music Video Conclusion: The 2D Animation Process At Kris Animation Studio, we are passionate about bringing your ideas to life through the art of 2D animation. Our process is designed to ensure that every project we undertake is not only visually stunning but also effective in communicating your message and resonating with your audience. Whether you’re looking to create a music video, a short film, an explainer video, or anything in between, we’re here to guide you through each stage of the process, delivering a final product that exceeds your expectations and brings your vision to life. Want to find out more about our services and how we can help you? Get in touch today for a free one-on-one consultation !

Throughout history, the way children learn has constantly evolved. Over the last decade, technology has revolutionized the education world. From digital learning environments to e-learning platforms, online education has become a core part of a child’s educational journey. However, while technology unlocks exciting opportunities, it also raises unique challenges. One major challenge is keeping younger learners engaged. 2D animation services are helping educators overcome these hurdles. They turn lessons into colorful, interactive, and fun experiences. As a leading 2D animation production company, we’ve seen firsthand how these tools empower schools, teachers, and parents alike. In this blog, we will take a closer look at how 2D animation is transforming online learning. Understanding the Challenges of Online Learning Before we explore 2D animation services further, it's important to understand some common challenges of online learning. While this technology is incredibly useful, many children struggle with: Attention Span : Compared to in-person lessons, it's much tougher for kids to sit still and listen to long lectures on a screen. Lack of Personal Interaction : The absence of face-to-face contact makes learning feel distant and impersonal. Static Content : Online learning often features heavy slides and static PDFs that usually do not capture children's imagination. Loss of Interest : When all of this combines, children can quickly lose interest and motivation for their education. Educational Video for Kids Learning Math What is 2D Animation in Education? At its core, 2D animation is the art of creating movement in a two-dimensional space using characters, shapes, and environments. For example, it could be a cartoon or explainer video that simplifies complex ideas. In education, 2D animation services can transform dull content into vibrant, engaging lessons. Unlike static images or text-heavy slides, animation creates motion, storytelling, and character-driven visuals that speak directly to young learners. When working with a 2D animation production company, the sky is the limit! Whether introducing an animated character to guide a lesson or breaking down difficult ideas into short, bite-sized cartoons, this colorful storytelling captivates students. These animation services are also highly versatile, making them applicable across the entire curriculum. Educational Video for Kids Learning to Count The Benefits of 2D Animation for Online Learning Now that you know how 2D animation services can be incorporated into online learning, let's explore some of the biggest benefits they bring. Increased Engagement Kids are naturally drawn to animation. Bright colors, movement, and relatable characters instantly capture attention. When a 2D animation production company designs lessons around stories or animated mascots, kids feel like they’re part of an adventure instead of just another class. Simplifies Complex Concepts Abstract topics can be tough for young learners to grasp. However, with educational animation for children, even complicated ideas like fractions can become clear and fun. Encourages Emotional Connection Characters in animation can build empathy and inspire curiosity. When a child sees a friendly animated guide explaining a lesson, they are more likely to form an emotional bond with the material. This connection makes it easier to stay motivated. Supports Different Learning Styles We all learn differently . Some children are visual learners, others are auditory learners, and some are more hands-on learners. Using 2D animation services allows educators to ensure their online courses meet the needs of all students. By combining visuals, narration, and interactivity, lessons become highly adaptable. Gamification and Interactivity One of the most powerful uses of animation is gamification. This taps into kids’ natural love of play and transforms education into an exciting experience. Educational animation for children enables schools to incorporate quizzes, rewards, and progress trackers. This approach helps make learning feel like a game, boosting attention and engagement rates. Explainer Video for Learning Concepts Incorporating 2D Animation into the Curriculum The idea of creating 2D animations might sound complicated or expensive, but it’s more accessible than many educators think. By working with a 2D animation production company, you can design custom animated content that unlocks a range of benefits and aligns perfectly with your curriculum. Here are some common methods for incorporating educational animation for children into online learning: Animated Introductions : Instead of relying solely on text or static slides, teachers can use short, animated videos to introduce or reinforce key concepts. These bite-sized lessons are perfect for young learners who thrive on quick, engaging bursts of content. Recurring Characters : Schools can develop recurring characters that guide students through their lessons. These mascots help children stay focused and create a sense of familiarity and comfort. Over time, they’ll look forward to seeing their animated “teacher friend” during classes. YouTube Channels : Many schools are starting their own YouTube channels as resources for students and parents. By adding educational animations, they can build a library of fun, easy-to-access videos that extend learning beyond the classroom and can be used for review and homework support. Fun Assessments : Thanks to technology, tests no longer have to be intimidating! Animated quizzes and challenges turn assessments into fun activities. This makes it easier for teachers to measure understanding without stressing students out. Interactive Lessons : Gamification is proving transformational in education. With a professional 2D animation production company, schools can introduce interactive lessons where students unlock rewards, solve puzzles, or complete missions. This approach combines storytelling with academics, giving kids the sense that they’re on a learning adventure. Cost Considerations What about the cost of 2D animation? While creating custom animations requires an investment, the long-term benefits are significant. Animated content can be reused for multiple classes and updated far more easily compared to live video. Final Thoughts Thanks to technology, the idea that education needs to be dull or overwhelming is a thing of the past. Embracing 2D animation services will help you create interactive, engaging, and fun online courses that transform how students learn and engage with their education. Through high-quality 2D animation, educators can turn complex ideas into simple, easily understandable concepts. This not only boosts comprehension but also keeps students engaged and helps them create long-lasting emotional connections with the materials. If you are looking to bring your lessons to life, Kris Animation Studio is here to help! As a leading 2D animation production company, we specialize in creating educational animation material for children. Whether it’s cartoons, mascots, games, or any other kind of resource, we can assist you. Based in Seattle and covering the whole of the United States, our team consists of talented animators, screenwriters, VFX professionals, and more. We create a diverse range of content that captivates students. Want to find out more about our services and how we can help you? Get in touch today for a free one-on-one consultation !

When it comes to 2D animation services, one of the most common questions that clients have is how much it will cost. While businesses, educators, and content creators often search for clear answers to this question, the reality is that the true cost of 2D animation depends on several key factors, and every project is unique! Whether it’s the length of the video, the style you’re after, or the level of complexity and storytelling required, there is a lot that goes into bringing an animated story to life. Here at Kris Animation Studio, we believe that 2D animation services do not need to break the bank. That’s why we have put this guide together to help you understand what influences the price, how you can scale production to suit your budget, and what to expect when working with a professional 2D animation production company. Understanding the cost of 2D animation While every project is unique, when it comes to knowing how much a 2D animated explainer video will cost, there are a few key factors that you will need to consider. These include: 1) Duration of the video The first thing that you will need to consider is the length of the video you want to create. This is usually the biggest factor affecting the cost, as most 2D animation production companies price by the second or by the minute. That is not just because of the additional screen time, but longer animation videos require more work to go into the scripting, storyboarding, animating, and editing. When deciding on your budget and costs, you should consider how you will be using the video. For example, shorter videos  tend to work better on social media or for product teasers and ads, while longer formats are ideal for educational animation for children or in-depth business explainers. 2) Complexity of animation Of course, while duration plays a big part in the cost of 2D animation, it is not the only factor. The complexity of the animation is equally important, and a simple motion graphics video that uses text, icons, and transitions requires less time and effort than a detailed, character-based story with multiple scenes and environments. Complexity will also depend on the number of scenes, the amount of movement per scene, the level of detail in the background, special effects, voiceovers, and more. All of these details require more hours of design and animation, which will increase the cost of your video; however, even on a smaller budget, a skilled 2D animation production company can find creative ways to simplify visuals while maintaining a polished, professional look. 3) Animation style The style of animation you choose will also influence the price, as each style will require different tools, workflows, and artistic skills. Motion graphics and text animations are often the most cost-effective option, and by focusing on moving shapes, typography, and infographics they make for great corporate explainers, SaaS product videos, and marketing campaigns. Character-driven animation will typically cost more as it involves rigging, acting, and detailed movement. However, this does make for more engaging content, and audiences are more likely to connect on an emotional level, which makes this style ideal for educational animation for children. Finally, hand-drawn animations are the most labor-intensive style, but they provide a classic and fluid style that feels organic and expressive. This level of craftsmanship naturally increases production time and cost, but it can create a premium feel for audiences. 4) Scriptwriting and storyboarding Quality scriptwriting is essential  to ensuring your video is engaging to viewers, but this requires research, messaging strategies, and developing a compelling story arc. This all requires time, which can increase the cost, but it is absolutely worth it. After the script comes the storyboard. This is a visual plan of the video that shows each scene, camera movement, and transition, and acts as the foundation of the entire animation. 5) Voiceovers, music, and sound design Adding a professional voiceover or custom sound design to your video can elevate the entire production. However, it does also add to the overall budget, and the cost will depend on the length of the script, the number of languages, and whether you use a professional actor or an AI voiceover. Background music, sound effects, and mixing are also important parts of the production as they give your animation the rhythm and energy it needs to capture attention. Schools and businesses that want to create a lasting impression should invest in high-quality sound to complement their visuals. 6) Revisions and turnaround time The number of revisions and the timeframe to deliver the video can also impact pricing. Rush projects require more resources and faster production cycles, which can increase costs, so if you are more flexible with your schedule, you can often save money without losing quality. A good 2D animation production company will also offer a set number of revisions in their quote to ensure you get the video you want.  Scaling 2D animation services to your budget One of the best things about animation is its scalability. No matter whether you are a small business, school, or content creator, you will be able to tailor your video production to suit your budget. Some top tips to help you scale your next project include: Start small Begin with a short 30-60 second animation to test audience engagement. Simplify visuals Use clean motion graphics or limited character movement to reduce complexity. Batch content If you are planning multiple videos, say 2D animation for a YouTube channel, then planning ahead and producing them together can lower your per-video costs. Reuse assets Characters, backgrounds, and icons can be repurposed for future projects, helping you stretch your budget further. If you are concerned about the cost of 2D animation, working with an experienced production company, like our team here at Kris Animation Studio, will allow you to benefit from a collaborative approach. Whether you need a short, snappy explainer or a detailed storytelling project, we’ll discuss your goals, audience, and message to create a customized quote that aligns with your budget and expectations. Ready to bring your story to life? When it comes to creating engaging and powerful storytelling, professional 2D animation services can help you capture your audience’s attention and retain viewership. Investing in a 2D animated explainer video is one of the smartest ways to connect with your audience, no matter whether you are looking to explain a product, teach a concept, or promote a service. Here at Kris Animation Studio, we understand that every project is unique, which is why we’re here to help you explore your options, so you have a clear understanding of the costs of 2D animation. We’ll work closely with you, building a video strategy that fits your vision and budget, no matter whether you are looking to create educational animation for children or a new YouTube series. Ready to bring your message to life? Schedule your free one-on-one consultation  today or get in touch, and let’s create something amazing together, no matter your budget!