Which Is Better: Live or Animated Videos?

Spin Creative • July 18, 2023

Choosing between animated videos and live videos may seem like a simple decision, but it can significantly impact your brand's success in video marketing. 

3D animation of boxes and yellow circles in studio

While both have their advantages and disadvantages, each form has a specific purpose that can help you achieve different goals. Read on to get a closer look at both animated and live videos, their benefits, and how they can improve your video marketing strategies.


Animated Videos


Animated videos are an excellent method to communicate an idea in an abstract or complicated way. If you want to showcase a product or service that is challenging to understand or visualize, animation can simplify it and create a more engaging experience for your audience. It also allows you to create things that are impossible in live video, making it an ideal choice for visualizing complex data or concepts.


Another benefit of animated videos is their versatility; they can be used for different types of videos, including explainer videos, brand videos, and social media ads. You can also customize the animations to align with your brand's aesthetic and message, creating a unique and memorable video that resonates with your target audience. Here are some simple tips to remember as you create an effective animated video:


·      Use a compelling story to showcase your product and keep your viewers hooked

·      Focus on creating memorable visuals that are consistent with your brand

·      Use clean lines, bright colors, and clear typography to stand out

·      Complement your visuals with a catchy jingle or voiceover that reinforces your message


Live Videos


If you're selling a tangible product or a one-on-one service, live-action videos are better suited than animation. Customers can see what you're selling in real life, evaluate its quality, and understand how it works. Live-action videos can create a sense of credibility and authenticity, especially if you're showcasing testimonials or customer stories.


Emotion in video marketing is crucial, and live-action videos have an advantage over animation in this aspect. It's easier to communicate emotion in real life than to create it artificially through animation; your audience can relate to your message better and develop a stronger connection to your brand. Here are some tips to remember as you make high-quality live video content for your brand:


·      Shoot in high definition to capture your viewers’ attention

·      Plan your video carefully and write a killer script that connects with your target audience

·      Use high-quality equipment to make your live video look polished and professional

·      Edit carefully and cut out unnecessary footage while adding graphics, text, or music that enhances your overall message


Make the most of your video marketing efforts with the help of your video production partner


Both animated and live videos have their benefits, depending on the goals and objectives of your video marketing strategy. The key is to understand your target audience and the message you want to convey, then choose the best approach that aligns with them. 


Working with a dedicated video production partner can help you make the most of your video marketing efforts, create high-quality videos that showcase your brand's uniqueness, and achieve your marketing goals. Say hello to Spin Creative and remember, mastering the art of video marketing takes time, patience, and creativity, but it's worth the investment in the long run.


About Us
Spin Creative is a video production company and creative agency helping marketers create winning video and creative strategies that engage, inspire and activate targeted audiences. Spin is headquartered in Seattle with offices in San Francisco and London, serving brands around the globe.

Purple colored abstract 3D objects with texture from the Microsoft 3D Copilot in Viva Sizzle Video

Designing a 3D Brand Universe for Microsoft Viva + Copilot

By Spin Creative • June 11, 2025
At Spin Creative, we believe the most effective product stories go beyond features—they tap into a clear, emotionally resonant narrative that connects with real people. That’s the lens we brought to our collaboration with Microsoft Viva, where our challenge was clear: create a high-impact video that visually captures how Copilot AI empowers people at work. The end result? A fully 3D-animated brand film designed to wow audiences at executive keynotes, tradeshows, and enterprise events. But how we got there is just as important as what we delivered.
A close up of a person 's face with sun shining behind with a blurry background.

Why Strategy, Storytelling, and Human Insight Still Win in the Age of AI

By Spin Creative • May 30, 2025
At Spin Creative, we’ve always believed that the power of brand storytelling lies in connecting emotionally with real people. But as artificial intelligence transforms industries at lightning speed, many marketing and creative leaders are asking the same question: What’s next for agencies like ours—and how do we continue to drive value in this new era? Here’s our point of view: AI is a powerful new tool—but not a replacement for insight, strategy, and human connection.
A neon sign that says market on it

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Digital Marketing in 2025

By Spin Creative • March 30, 2025
In 2025, digital marketing continues to be a dynamic force—shaped by shifting consumer behaviors, ever-changing platform algorithms, and increasing privacy regulations. For brands looking to maintain relevance and performance in a crowded space, staying ahead means being strategic, adaptive, and creative. At Spin Creative, we believe that clarity in brand storytelling, paired with a smart digital approach, can help brands rise above the noise.
A black and white photo of lenses and filmmaking accessories in a production case.

How to Build a Winning Video Strategy Using the 4 Pillars of Digital Communications Planning

By Spin Creative • February 8, 2025
A great video marketing campaign doesn’t start with creative—it starts with strategy. To make an impact, your brand needs more than a beautiful video; it needs a plan that aligns with your audience’s needs, your business goals, and the right distribution channels.
Show More