Beyond Static: How Motion Graphics Can Enhance Print Materials

It should come as no surprise that video content is king, providing endless entertainment and learning through lively visuals and animations. But what about print? Should you just concede the attractive and absorbing aspects of video and animation to the digital channels and concentrate on selling flat printed images?

Don't leave any opportunity behind!

Motion graphics aren't appropriate for every project, but helping your clients dive into the realm of motion can be a differentiating factor for your printing business that helps retain current customers and attracts new ones. Motion graphics can transform flat sheets into mesmerizing 3D objects, capturing the reader's attention and even bridging the gap between the tangible and digital worlds for an unforgettable interactive experience.

Transforming Print Media with Folds and Tabs 

Show your clients how you can transform a simple piece of paper into an interactive experience using innovative folding techniques and die cutting technology. Suddenly, static graphics come alive and captivate your client's audience.

Incorporating panels and tabs into a folded sheet can unveil hidden messages or images beneath die-cut windows. Some examples might include before and after shots in a make-up ad or stunning house renovations. A spinning wheel in a folded postcard can be an interesting way to deliver information. This clever approach can make presenting marketing offers or explaining complex concepts entertaining and engaging.

Pop Off the Page

Recipients will remember the message when a flat sheet converts into a 3D object like a birthday cake or a bouquet of flowers. Thanks to die-cutting techniques, pop-ups make this magic happen, and the possibilities are endless.

But why stop there? With intricate folding and inserting tabs, you can create usable objects like pencil holders, boxes, houses, or paper airplanes. These eye-catching creations serve as long-lasting brand reminders, keeping your client's business top of mind.

Flip Books - Still a Thing

How about creating a booklet or a catalogue where the corner of each page is adorned with a one-of-a-kind image, illustrating a balloon's skyward journey in sequence. When flipped, the booklet transforms into a delightful animation of the balloon soaring through the clouds. Or envision a seed catalogue that brings a tomato plant to life, from a tiny seedling to luscious, ripe fruit.

If your client has the budget, a flip book can even become an engaging standalone masterpiece, sure to get the customers' attention.

Add Motion with Lenticular Printing or Holographs

This cutting-edge technology uses thin lenses to create exciting effects, like transitioning between images or producing 3D visuals. You've probably seen such items made from plastic that make an

image move by tilting the object back and forth. Now these lenses can be made thin enough to use in printing applications.

And let's not forget holographs—their specialized techniques and inks also bring images to life, adding that extra wow-factor to your prints. Both methods are surefire ways to elevate your print game with a sense of motion and depth.

Augmented Reality is Becoming Mainstream

People are being exposed to augmented reality (AR) through experiences like games and chat filters. Your client's audience may be just the right people to respond to AR enabled print applications like direct mail postcards. Any technique that lengthens a customer's exposure to your client's brand is a good thing and AR can definitely capture their attention.

When consumers point their phone or mobile device's camera at a printed image, vehicles, gadgets, or toys spring to life as captivating 3D models. This cutting-edge technology injects a dose of interactivity and takes presentations to a whole new level!

Easy Interactivity: QR Codes

QR codes effortlessly bridge the gap between the tangible and digital realms, thanks to their easy creation using free software and compatibility with mobile devices. Their popularity skyrocketed during the COVID pandemic, as restaurants cleverly replaced physical menus with online alternatives using these nifty codes. Most people now recognize QR codes and know what to do with them.

Incorporating QR codes into printed materials like business cards or direct mail adds a touch of modernity, making them an indispensable component of multi-channel campaigns. Scanning a QR code can whisk users away to enticing websites with special offers, vibrant social media platforms, or personalized experiences tailored just for them.

The Future of Interactive Print

Print has evolved, and it's still a crucial part of communication strategies. Embrace these new techniques, show them to your clients, and watch your printed products become more engaging and effective than ever.