Follow this step-by-step guide to learn the modern process of presenting style frames in Milanote, a free tool used by top creatives.
How to present motion graphics style frames in 4 easy steps
Style frames are a simple, visual representation of how the final animation will look, they're a critical step in the motion design process.
Motion designers, animators, and creative directors use them to present options to clients and teams before they start an animation. This gives everyone an opportunity to provide feedback and agree on a visual style early in the creative process.
In this guide, you'll learn the modern approach to presenting style frames and gathering feedback from your team using Milanote.
1. Present your options
Start by uploading the concepts you've designed so you can share them with your team. These are often 2D or 3D renders of a scene from a storyboard you've created earlier. It's best to present variations of the same scene side by side so your team can focus solely on the visual style rather than the contents of the scene.
How to do this in Milanote
Create a new board for your storyboard.
Create a new board
Drag a board out from the toolbar. Give it a name, then double click to open it.
Drag files from your computer.
Upload a file or document
Click the "Upload file" button or just drag a file onto your board. You can add images, logos, documents, videos, audio, and much more.
2. Explain your thinking
Next, include some written notes about each option. This will help explain your ideas and keep everything in context. You don’t have to go into too much detail—the goal is to explain the differences between the options you're presenting. Remember to give each concept a name so they're easy to reference.
How to do this in Milanote
Add a note to describe each option.
Drag a note card onto your board
Start typing then use the formatting tools in the left-hand toolbar.
With any creative technique or project, it’s important to be open to constructive criticism. Now that you've prepared the options, it's time to ask for specific feedback. Share the style frames with your team and get together to choose a final direction.
How to do this in Milanote
Publish and share the brief with your team.
Add a welcome message to your board.
Write a welcome message under the "Publish & share" menu. This will display the first time someone views your board.
4. Choose a final direction
Ensure that everyone on your team agrees on the final direction before you start animating. It's much easier to revise the style in this phase of the project compared to production, where simple changes can take days.
Encourage others to share their feedback on color, composition, mood, and texture. Make sure you stay open to suggestions and improvements and try not to take criticism personally.
How to do this in Milanote
Start a conversation about the options.
Start a comment thread
Drag out a comment from the toolbar on the left and place it on your board. Other editors can reply to your comment.
Mention teammates to get their attention.
Mention teammates to get their attention
Type '@' in any text field to mention someone who has access to your board. They'll receive a notification and be able to respond to your comment.
Mark your favourites using reactions.
Add emoji reactions to your content
Select an image or note and choose "Add reaction" from the left toolbar.
You're done!
Now that your style frames are complete, you (and your team) have a clear vision for how your final animation will look! Use the template below to create a start organizing your style frames or check out our full guide on how to plan a motion design project.
Written by Brett Warren
Updated 8th Jun, 2024
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