An animatic is an animated version of a storyboard, with panels timed to match the intended pacing, often accompanied by scratch dialogue, temp music, and basic sound effects.
An animatic brings a storyboard to life by adding the dimension of time. Storyboard panels are sequenced in video editing software and displayed for their intended duration, with transitions, basic camera moves (zooms and pans across the panels), and temporary audio. The result is a rough, animated preview of the final video that shows not just what will be seen but how long each shot will last and how the sequence will flow.
Animatics are invaluable for evaluating pacing and timing before committing to expensive production. A storyboard might look perfect on paper, but when timed out, it might reveal that a sequence runs too long, a key moment feels rushed, or the overall rhythm needs adjustment. These discoveries during animatic review save significant time and money compared to discovering them during shooting or editing.
For animation and motion graphics projects, animatics serve as the definitive timing reference for the production team. Animators, voice actors, and sound designers all work from the approved animatic to ensure their contributions align with the established timing. For live-action projects, animatics help the director and cinematographer plan their shoot with precision, knowing exactly how long each shot needs to be and how it connects to the surrounding shots.
Motion graphics are animated visual elements — such as text, shapes, icons, and data visualizations — designed to communicate information or enhance visual storytelling.
A storyboard is a sequence of illustrated panels that visually map out each shot of a video, showing composition, camera angles, subject positions, and key actions before any filming begins.
The timeline is the primary workspace in a video editor where clips, audio, effects, and transitions are arranged sequentially to build a project.