The Difference Between Video Editing and Motion Graphics (and Why Employers Often Get It Wrong)
If you’ve ever browsed job boards or freelance gigs in the creative space, you’ve probably noticed something odd: many employers lump "video editing" and "motion graphics" into the same category, as if they’re interchangeable. Spoiler alert—they’re not. And as someone working in the industry, it’s a distinction that’s important to highlight for both creatives and employers alike.
Let’s break it down:
What Is Video Editing?
Video editing is the art of storytelling. It’s about taking raw footage and piecing it together to create a cohesive narrative or visual experience. A great video editor knows how to:
Cut scenes and sequences to create flow and rhythm.
Add music, sound effects, and colour grading to enhance the mood.
Work within a timeline, balancing pacing and continuity.
At its core, video editing is about using what already exists—footage, audio, and imagery—to craft something meaningful.
What Are Motion Graphics?
Motion graphics, on the other hand, involve creating visuals from scratch. Think animated text, logos that move, infographic visuals, and visual effects. Motion graphics artists typically use tools like After Effects or Cinema 4D to bring static designs to life.
Key skills include:
Animation (text, shapes, icons, and more).
Understanding of design principles, like typography, composition, and colour.
The ability to visualise abstract concepts and bring them to life creatively.
In short, motion graphics are about creating something new, rather than working primarily with pre-existing footage.
The Overlap (and Why the Confusion Happens)
It’s true that video editing and motion graphics often overlap—especially in industries like advertising, marketing, and social media. For example:
A video editor might add a subtle lower-third text animation (motion graphics).
A motion graphics artist might be asked to animate a scene to fit into a larger video project.
But while these two roles share some skills, they are distinct disciplines requiring different tools, training, and expertise.
Why Employers Get It Wrong
Here’s where things go sideways: job adverts often ask for a video editor who can also create complex animations and motion graphics. Or they list "motion graphics artist" in the title but focus entirely on editing responsibilities in the description.
This misunderstanding leads to a few problems:
Skill Mismatch: A skilled video editor might not have the software expertise or design skills to create intricate motion graphics—and vice versa.
Underestimating Time: Employers often underestimate how time-intensive motion graphics can be compared to editing. Animating custom graphics takes much longer than trimming footage and syncing music.
Budget Constraints: By conflating the two roles, budgets are often set too low for the scope of work required.
Why It Matters
For creatives, clarity in job descriptions means we can play to our strengths and avoid burnout from being expected to do it all. For employers, understanding the distinction ensures they’re hiring the right person for the job—and valuing their expertise appropriately.
Takeaway for Employers
When advertising for a video editor or motion graphics artist, ask yourself:
Is this role primarily about editing existing footage or creating animations from scratch?
Do I need someone who specialises in one discipline or has experience in both?
Am I budgeting appropriately for the time and skills required?
Investing time in writing clear job descriptions benefits everyone involved. It ensures you attract the right talent and sets realistic expectations for your project.
What’s been your experience with this issue? Have you seen (or taken) job roles that blurred the lines between video editing and motion graphics? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
