The most popular animation technique amongst people, 2D animation, came into being more than a hundred years ago and is still cherished today. The transition from an era of character sketches and basic cartoons to an age where complex cartoons are made with the use of sophisticated equipment by top-notch studios is revolutionary. Furthermore, animated movies make more revenue than non-animated movies by 30%.
The 2D animation industry, alongside 2D animation studios, has changed the landscape, resulting in new and innovative services. During this transformation, the history of 2D animations has changed drastically, all of which make for compelling storytelling.
The Origins of 2D Animation: Setting the Stage
A variety of devices, such as flipbooks and zoetrope, emerged in the market, enabling inventors and other artists to view and create a new type of entertainment and art. The ability to make motion images changed the way many things were done, as it also set the foundation for the 2D animation that we use today.
The First Animated Film
Fantasmagorie is considered to be the first-ever animated film, even though it was hand-drawn and used basic stick figures. It was created by Émile Cohl in 1908, and during this time period, it was seen as a better method for visual storytelling and easily engaged the viewers, therefore giving birth to 2D animation services.
The Silent Era of Animation
With the onset of the 1920s, silent film took a new turn and merged into movie animations, which the studios at the time were slowly beginning to comprehend the importance it possessed. New 2D animation studios began to open, and with it came new characters and stories of various types.
The Golden Age of Animation: 1920s–1930s
The rise of prominent 2D animation companies such as Walt Disney, Warner Bros, and others led the 2D animation industry towards new heights in terms of how it was created and consumed. This new era was dubbed the Golden Era of 2D animation.
The Birth of Iconic Characters
With the introduction of Mickey Mouse in the short “Steamboat Willie,” Walt Disney laid the first synchronized sound cartoon and further legitimized the standing of 2D animation studios.
The First Full-Length Animated Film
The animated film “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” in the year of 1937 established a revolution for the animation industry as it was the first feature-length full animated film, demonstrating and portraying the capabilities that the 2D animation services hold that can be enjoyed across a wide age span.
Read also: Cel Animation: How It Works and Why It’s Iconic
Expanding Applications: The Rise of Television and Advertising
In the mid-20th century, television took hold of society, which reduced the demand for 2D animation services; the Flintstones and Looney Tunes changed the narrative and image of 2D animation companies as they became the bridge for the culture of animation in society.
Advertising with Animation
Gradually, businesses started using 2D animations for advertising which resulted in commercials that were attractive and interesting to the targeted audience. 2D animation studios were worth their weight in gold as they enabled brands to showcase their products in different ways.
Corporate Training and Education
Organizations turned to 2D animation agencies to develop training materials and educational videos. These animations simplified complex concepts and made learning more interactive and effective.
The Digital Revolution: Transforming 2D Animation
Many artists in the 90s desired and loved 2D animations, and with the advent of new technology, everything changed. The hand-drawn animations were now done digitally which drastically altered the speed and accuracy with which 2D animation was done.
Digital Tools and Techniques
Software like Toon Boom Harmony, Adobe Animate, and Moho revolutionized the animation process. 2D animators could now create detailed designs and fluid motion with greater efficiency. This shift allowed 2D animation companies to handle larger projects while maintaining high-quality output.
Diversification Across Industries
Over time, as the tools became digital, 2D animation services began to expand beyond the entertainment sector. A wide range of industries, from medicine to online retail, used 2D animation videos to convey their ideas and messages in the most effective way. Hence, 2D video animation services became a key to entertaining people whilst marketing them.
Modern 2D Animation: Versatility and Innovation
Today, there are countless services offered by 2D animation studios, from multi-dimensional 2D animations to simple explainer videos and even character animations for movies. You name it, and the studios have it all!
Applications of 2D Animation Today
- Marketing and Advertising
Businesses rely on 2D animation companies to create engaging advertisements, product demos, and explainer videos. These animations simplify messages and boost audience engagement.
- Education and Training
Schools and corporations use 2D animation services to develop interactive learning materials. These animations make concepts easier to understand and retain.
- Entertainment
Commercials, movies, and online series have been using 2D animations for storytelling for years. TV shows have also been using them for characterization. This is where studios hire professional 2D animators to help them build relatable characters.
- Social Media and Gaming
Social media platforms thrive on short, visually appealing content. 2D video animation services help brands stand out with unique and creative posts. Additionally, gaming companies use 2D animation studios to design characters and in-game elements.
Why Businesses Still Choose 2D Animation
In spite of 3D animation’s widespread acceptance, 2D animation continues to be the preferred choice for a range of projects. Here’s the reasoning behind that:
- Simplicity and Clarity: In essence, 2D animations are useful for educational and promotional purposes because they easily get the message across in the first place.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Creating a 2D animation video is typically less costly than producing 3D animations.
- Timeless Appeal: The appeal of hand-drawn or digitally made flat animations connects with viewers of every generation.
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Prolific Studio: Leading the Way in 2D Animation Services
Prolific Animation Studio is an established cutting-edge 2D animation company gearing up to meet the high demand for animation services among businesses, instructors, and the creative industry. With a great consortium of 2D animators’ arsenal coupled with advanced technology, we offer bespoke 2D animation services tailored to your needs.
Our Key Offerings
- Explainer Videos
Simplify complex ideas with engaging, visually appealing animations. - Corporate Training Animations
Enhance employee learning with interactive training videos. - Social Media Content
Grab attention with short, impactful animations designed for social platforms. - Product Demonstrations
Highlight product features and benefits through animated videos.
FAQs About 2D Animation
- What is a 2D animation studio?
Specializing in entertainment, marketing, education, and engagement, a 2D animation studio is simply an advertising company that designs two-dimensional animations that can be used in various other industries.
- How has 2D animation evolved over time?
There has been a great transition from bread-and-butter hand-drawn illustrations to 2D animations that are steadily capturing the market. There are currently various forms of animation that offer second-to-none tools in animation, and this has been a remarkable evolution in the 2D animation industry.
- What industries use 2D animation services?
Services offered by 2D animation companies can be utilized for a wide range of purposes, including marketing, educational promotions, and even entertainment factors. Firms in the healthcare industry would find a great use for it, too along with the gaming sector.
- Why should I choose Prolific Studio for 2D animation?
Prolific also designs varied concepts for a business, which is why, as an authoritative business in 2D video animation services, we will create unique, high-quality animation that meets your set goals.
- How much does a 2D animation video cost?
Costs vary based on project complexity. Prolific Studio provides custom quotes to suit your budget and requirements.
Contact Prolific Studio Today
Prepared to transform your concepts into reality using expert 2D animations? Prolific Studio, one of the best animation studios in Los Angeles, focuses on producing animations that engage viewers and achieve outcomes.
Contact us today for free advice on concepts that we can creatively develop for your brand through 2D animation services, and see the quality that we offer to our customers!
