Frequently asked questions
These are the most commonly asked questions about Animatic Media. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Chat to our friendly team!
How long does it take to create an animatic?
Standard 2D animatics take 8-10 business days, with rush options available in 5-7 days. 3D animatics require 14-16 business days for optimal quality. AI enhancements are included in these timelines.
Production Timeline Breakdown
2D Animatics
- Standard: 8-10 business days
- Rush: 5-7 business days
- Includes AI enhancements
3D Animatics
- Standard: 14-16 business days
- Complex projects may require additional time
AI Enhancement Benefits
- 40% more fluid movement
- 60% more realistic expressions
- 100% faster iterations
- 3D-quality motion at 2D speeds
Quality Assurance Steps
- Initial visualization
- Animation refinement
- Technical review
- Client feedback integration
- Final polish
How does AI improve animatic production?
AI enhances animatic production by automating basic animation tasks while maintaining human creative control, resulting in 40% faster delivery times and 60% more fluid motion. Let's address the robot in the room. Yes, we use AI. No, we're not letting algorithms run the creative show. Think of AI as power steering for your creative vehicle – it helps with the heavy lifting, but you still need a skilled driver to win the race.
Here's how we're playing it smart in 2025
- Speed Demons: AI handles the grunt work
- Human Hearts: Creatives focus on the magic
- Perfect Harmony: Technology meets artistry
What AI Brings to the Party
- Character movement that flows like water
- Expressions that actually express
- Lighting that sets the mood
- Backgrounds that don't look backed-up
What Humans Keep Sacred
- Story timing that hits just right
- Cultural nuances that matter
- Creative decisions that make or break
- That special sauce only humans get
The Choice Is Yours
- Full Human (old school cool)
- AI-Enhanced (best of both worlds)
- Custom Mix (your call, always)
But here's our promise: Every frame gets human eyes, every sequence gets human hearts, and every story gets human understanding. Because while AI can help us work faster, it's our human team that makes your story work harder.
What is better for my commercial: 2D or 3D animatics?
The choice between 2D and 3D animatics depends on your specific needs. 2D excels in speed and efficiency (8-10 days) while 3D offers superior product visualization (14-16 days). Both options are enhanced with AI technology.
2D Animatics Advantages
- Faster turnaround (8-10 days)
- Lower cost point
- Easier revisions
Perfect for
- Character-driven stories
- Emotional narratives
- Quick iterations
- Multiple versions
3D Animatics Advantages
- Photorealistic capability
- Precise product visualization
Ideal for
- Automotive spots
- Product demonstrations
- Complex camera moves
- Technical visualization
AI Enhancements (2025)
- Lifelike facial expressions
- Fluid character movement
- Dynamic camera control
- Real-time modifications
ROI Metrics
- 23% higher comprehension
- 31% better message recall
- 40% more fluid movement
How is sound design and voiceover handled in animatics?
Yes, our global team handles multiple simultaneous animatic productions, successfully managing campaigns with 50+ deliverables across different markets and formats. Scale isn't just about numbers – it's about maintaining excellence while juggling flaming chainsaws. Whether you're dropping one epic 60-second spot or a dozen market variations, we've built a machine that scales without breaking a sweat.
What We're Talking
- Global Campaigns? Check.
- Multiple Markets? Got it.
- Different Languages? Naturalmente.
- Various Formats? All day.
How We Handle It
- Dedicated Teams (no B-squad here)
- Global Coordination (follow the sun)
- Quality Control (obsessive about it)
- Timeline Management (like a Swiss watch)
Think of us as your creative SEAL Team Six – ready for anything, scaled for everything, and always on target. Because in this industry, you're only as good as your ability to handle the crazy, and we eat crazy for breakfast.
What do I need to start an animatic project?
To begin, you need a script and basic creative direction. Additional materials like design references and brand guidelines are helpful but not required to start the process. Here's the beautiful truth: You don't need a truck full of assets to get this party started. Bring us your scripts (rough is fine), your references (napkin sketches count), and most importantly, bring us your dreams. We're problem solvers who can fill in the gaps faster than your creative director can say "make it pop."
Essential Ingredients
- The Script(polished or raw)
- Creative Vision(big or bigger)
- Timeline(real or ambitious)
- Budget(we'll make it work)
Nice-to-Haves
- Brand Guidelines
- Design References
- Similar Campaigns
- Audience Insights
But here's the real talk: Sometimes the best projects start with just a spark of an idea and a deadline that's too close for comfort. We've built our process to adapt to what you've got, not demand what you don't.
How are animatic revisions handled?
Our real-time online review system enables immediate feedback and collaborative markup, with no limit on revision rounds. We focus on getting it right rather than counting changes. Revision time isn't just about making changes – it's about making magic. We've built a review process smoother than your morning cortado, because we know brilliant ideas don't always strike on the first try.
The System
- Real - time markup tools
- Frame - specific comments
- Team collaboration space
- Version tracking that makes sense
The Process
- You Mark It: Instant feedback
- We Track It: Nothing gets lost
- Everyone Sees It: No confusion
- Changes Happen: Like clockwork
Remember: We don't count rounds like beans in your espresso. We're here to get it right, whether that takes two tweaks or twenty. Because at the end of the day, we succeed when you look like a genius to your client.
What's your process for handling revisions and feedback?
Our revision process uses a real-time online review system that allows immediate feedback and collaborative markup. We don't limit revision rounds because we focus on getting it right.
Review System Features
Collaboration Tools
- Real - time markup
- Frame - specific comments
- Team collaboration
- Version tracking
Review Process
- Initial presentation
- Feedback collection
- Rapid implementation
- Progress tracking
Technical Capabilities
- Cloud-based platform
- Multiple user access
- Change history
- Approval workflow
Remember: We don't count rounds like beans in your espresso. We're here to get it right, whether that takes two tweaks or twenty. Because at the end of the day, we succeed when you look like a genius to your client.
How are animatics kept secure and confidential?
Every project receives military-grade encryption, secure transfer protocols, and comprehensive NDAs. Our security system includes restricted access protocols and secure cloud storage. In this industry, ideas are currency, and we run a maximum-security vault. Your creative gold gets protected harder than your creative director guards their secret coffee stash.
Security Lockdown
- Enterprise - Grade Encryption
- Fort Knox File Transfers
- Access Control Like the Pentagon
- NDAs That Mean Business
Protection Protocol
- Digital Fortress: Everything encrypted
- Human Firewall: Need - to - know basis
- Legal Shield: Bulletproof NDAs
- Technical Guard: 24 / 7 monitoring
Your secrets are safe with us. Because in a world where ideas are everything, security isn't just a feature – it's our obsession.
Are animatics updated with latest advertising technology?
We continuously integrate emerging technologies including AR previews, interactive elements, and platform-specific capabilities while maintaining focus on practical applications that drive results. Think of us as the R&D lab that never sleeps. We're like trend forecasters with rendering engines, constantly experimenting with new tech but always asking one crucial question: Will this move the needle for your campaign?
Current Capabilities
- AR Visualization(see it before you shoot it)
- Virtual Production Preview(game engine goodness)
- Real - time Rendering(because waiting is so 2023)
- Platform - specific Optimization(social to silver screen)
But here's the thing – we're not chasing shiny objects. Every new tool we add to the arsenal has to earn its keep by making your creative better, faster, or stronger. Preferably all three.
Innovation Focus
- Practical Applications(no gimmicks)
- ROI Improvements(money talks)
- Workflow Efficiency(speed matters)
- Quality Enhancement(always better)
Welcome to the future of animatics – where innovation meets intention, and every new technology serves your story.
Do you offer 24/7 animatic production support?
Yes, our global studio network provides round-the-clock support across multiple time zones, with transparent premium pricing for after-hours work. We've built a beast of a global operation that never sleeps. That brilliant idea that woke you up at 2 AM? Yeah, we're up too. Our follow-the-sun workflow means someone's always manning the creative lighthouse.
Global Coverage
- Los Angeles(West Coast wizards)
- London(European excellence)
- Singapore(Asia Pacific artistry)
- 24 / 7 Availability(always on)
Support Levels
- Standard Hours(regular rates)
- After Hours(premium rates)
- Emergency Response(when it can't wait)
- Weekend Warriors(because deadlines don't do calendars)
But let's be real about the dollars and cents – keeping the A-team available at 3 AM isn't cheap. That's why our after-hours rates are transparent and factored into your quote upfront. No surprises, no hidden fees, just straight talk about what it takes to make magic happen on your schedule.
How much does an animatic cost?
Animatic costs vary by style and length, with starting prices reflecting industry standards for professional pre-visualization. Our proven process ensures value at every budget level.2D Animatics (Our Sweet Spot):
- :15 spots start from $8,500
- :30 spots start from $13,500
- :60 spots start from $17,500
- Quick turnaround fees: Additional 25-50%
Boardomatics (Maximum Impact, Minimum Time)
- :15 spots start from $5,500
- :30 spots start from $8,500
- :60 spots start from $10,500
- Rush delivery available at premium rates
3D Animatics
- Starting at $15,750 for basic packages
- Complex projects typically range $19,750 to $25,750
But here's the thing – these aren't vending machine prices. Each project is its own beast with its own needs. Think of it like ordering a bespoke suit versus grabbing something off the rack. Sure, we could give you a one-size-fits-all number, but that's not how great work happens.
Variables that affect the final investment include:
- Animation complexity
- Number of characters / scenes
- Custom sound design vs.stock audio
- Global versioning needs
- Usage rights requirements
- Timeline demands
Pro tip: Many clients save 15-30% on their final production budgets by nailing the animatic phase. Think of it as creative insurance – spend a little now, save a lot later.
Reach out to our team for a detailed rate discussion. We're transparent about pricing because we believe in building trust before the first frame is even sketched. After all, great creative partnerships start with honest conversations about dollars and cents.
How to choose the right animatic style for your commercial?
The optimal animatic style depends on your specific needs around timeline, budget, and creative goals. We analyze these factors through a proven consultation process to recommend the most effective approach. Style isn't just about looking pretty – it's about making your story punch through in research and convince clients before they even finish their first coffee. We're script whisperers who've guided thousands of spots through the gauntlet of testing, and we know exactly what makes consumers lean in versus check out.
Step 1: Creative DNA Check
- Script pacing and emotional beats
- Key visual moments that need to shine
- Brand guidelines and visual equity
- Target audience expectations
- Testing methodology
- Budget realities(because we live in the real world)
Step 2: Technical Reality Check
- Timeline constraints
- Iteration requirements
- Research needs
- Final production approach
- Platform requirements
- Global versioning needs
The Science Behind It
- 2D excels at emotional storytelling and comedy
- Boardomatics shine for quick iterations
- 3D rules for product-heavy spots
But here's the game-changer: We don't just throw options at the wall. Our style recommendations have helped spots score 23% higher in comprehension and 31% better in message recall during research.
The best part? This consultation is baked into our process. Because getting it right at the start beats fixing it later every time.
How does the animatic production team collaboration work?
Our streamlined production process pairs you with expert project managers who coordinate directly with our creative team, ensuring efficient communication and optimal creative output. This dedicated producer model has increased project efficiency by 40% and reduced revision cycles by 60%.
Project Team Structure
Your Direct Contacts
- Senior Producer
- Project Manager
- Account Lead
- Technical Director
Behind-the-Scenes Team
- Animators
- Artists
- Sound Designers
- Technical Specialists
Communication Benefits
- Single point of contact
- 24 / 7 producer availability
- Faster response times
- Streamlined feedback
Efficiency Metrics
- 40 % faster approvals
- 60 % fewer revision rounds
- 30 % reduction in production time
- 25 % improved resource allocation
Why This Works Better
- Producers translate creative needs
- Artists stay focused on creation
- Clear communication channels
- Experienced project oversight
- Optimal resource management
This proven workflow ensures your vision is executed precisely while our creative team maintains peak productivity and focus on your project.
Why use animatics for commercials?
Animatics are animated storyboards that preview your commercial before production, saving costs and preventing expensive mistakes while helping sell creative concepts to stakeholders. Think of an animatic as your creative crystal ball – a way to see into the future of your commercial before you burn through your production budget. It's not just another pre-production tool; it's your insurance policy against those "why didn't we catch this earlier" moments that keep producers up at night.
Key Benefits
Risk Reduction
- Catch technical issues before production
- Test timing and pacing
- Validate camera moves
- Preview complex sequences
Cost Savings
- Prevent expensive reshoots (30% average savings)
- Optimize production planning
- Reduce on-set problem-solving
- Streamline post-production
Stakeholder Value
- Sell creative concepts confidently
- Get clearer client feedback
- Align team expectations
- Test audience reactions
The Numbers Tell the Story
- 30% average production savings
- 40% faster approval process
- 50% reduction in on-set changes
- 25% shorter editing time
Think about it this way: You wouldn't build a skyscraper without blueprints.An animatic is your commercial's blueprint, helping you nail every beat, transition, and moment before the meter starts running on production costs.Because in this industry, clarity before cameras roll isn't just smart – it's essential.
Mastering animatics since 2002. Our creative teams in the US and UK ensure your
vision is
never limited by time zones. With over 4,500 successful projects, we’ve perfected the balance
of global talent and local accessibility. Animatic Media Group and Storyboards.com.
Transforming storyboards into extraordinary experiences, with support that matches your workflow..
Please contact us at hello@animaticmedia.com
GLobal Expertise • Local Responsiveness