Believe it or not, stop-motion animation has actually been around since the late 1800s. Even though we have far more advanced options available when it comes to filmmaking, it’s continued to gain popularity over the years.

 

What is Stop Motion?

 

Stop Motion is filmmaking technique that gives inanimate objects independent motion. The photographer or filmmaker manipulates the objects and takes individual photos frame by frame. When played in sequence, it looks like the objects are moving.

 

Pulling off stop motion successfully is as complicated as it sounds – it requires a talented artist or photographer who is skilled in the technique. (So, if you need a hand for your stop motion clip, I know a girl 😉 – connect with me here for inquiries.)

 

There’s a reason we’re still using this meticulous and time-consuming process: it’s fascinating. Now in 2020 we still find the classic 1964 version of Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer played throughout the holiday season. And even kids today are familiar with the iconic scene of King Kong swatting at airplanes from the Empire State Building – King Kong first aired in 1933!

 

If these beloved classics still hold up after all these years, it only makes sense to try this unique technique in marketing!

 

Here are 4 reasons to consider stop motion clips for your next advertisement:

 

Animate Your Product

With products that are inanimate, it would seem that either need actors to show off your products for videos; or, you could advertise still images of your product – products can’t do anything on their own.

 

But that’s where stop motion comes in. Bring your products to life and have them tell their own story without involving live actors (like this sad story of a lonely M&M). Anyone can take a video of a person running in shoes – but what if those shoes had their own story to tell?!

 

If you do choose to use live actors, clips allow you to manipulate time to freeze or fast-forward what you want your viewers to see. In the example below, we didn’t want to focus on the person consuming the drink (watching someone chug a drink is awkward…) So we skipped those frames and focused on the full and empty glass to emphasize the refreshing aspect of the product.

 

Mesmerize Your Audience

Stop-motion clips are unique. It’s hard to explain, but there’s a kind of endearing quality to them. For instance, The Nightmare Before Christmas has stood the test of time and has become a quirky classic. The stop-motion sequences in the movie have an odd sort of appeal that just wouldn’t be the same if the movie used live actors or cartoon animation. Stop motion draws in your eyes and mind differently than other forms of video – maybe it’s just the edge you need to stand out among competitors!

 

Keep Them on Your Ad Longer

Usually, advertisers use stop motion to tell a short story. If you’ve ever watched one of Pixar’s Shorts, you know just how intriguing short clips can be. You just have to see how it ends. If you want viewers to watch the entire ad without bouncing their eyes, a stop motion clip is the perfect way to go!

 

Pique Continued Interest

In addition to the point above, short clips make viewers want to know more – more about your brand, your story, your products. And that’s great for your business because they’re more likely to click around on your site…and maybe even buy the product. You want your ads to not only catch the viewer’s attention as they’re scrolling, but entice them to click and buy.

Want to learn more about stop motion and advertising? I’m just a message away!

 

Lindsay is a Los Angeles-based food, product, and commercial photographer. She specializes in Still Product & Food Photography, Lifestyle & Portrait Photography, Stop Motion, and Food Styling. Connect with her HERE for product marketing!