Choosing Between Animation & Live-Action Video
Some stories shine with real people and real places. Others need the magic of motion design or characters you can’t find in casting calls. We do both—often in the same project—so we’re all about helping you find the best way to tell your story.
When to use live-action video?
Live-action is great when you want to show real people, real places, or real products. It’s often the fastest route to emotional connection—especially if you're telling a human story or building trust. Think testimonials, behind-the-scenes videos, or lifestyle ads. But it can come with more logistics: locations, talent, crews, weather. You know, real-world stuff.
When to use animated videos?
Animation, on the other hand, is your go-to when the idea lives more in your imagination than on a set. It shines for explaining complex concepts, visualizing the invisible (like data or web services), or creating a bold, branded world from scratch. It’s also evergreen—no annoying reshoots if someone leaves the company or your app updates next month.
Mixed videos are the best of both!
Mixed videos are a sweet spot when you want the best of both: emotional connection and visual imagination. Add animated overlays to live-action footage, like this. Drop a cartoon mascot into the break room. Use motion graphics to explain what your product actually does—while a human is talking about why it matters. Mixed videos bring that extra spark of delight. And at Heck, that’s kind of our thing.
So whether you’re chasing a big idea or starting from a blank page, we’re ready to jump in. Together we’ll make something worth watching (and rewatching). Get in touch and we’ll design the right video for your story.
