In today’s digital-first world, brands are constantly looking for ways to stand out. Whether it’s in online adverts, social media or digital billboards, one tool that has become invaluable for businesses is CGI animation. But what exactly is CGI and how can it help your business? Let’s break it down
What is CGI Animation?
CGI (Computer Generated Imagery) animation refers to the creation of visual content using computer graphics. Unlike traditional animation, which relies on hand-drawn or stop-motion techniques, CGI produces realistic, high-quality visuals that can range from lifelike to completely fantastical.
It’s the technology behind jaw-dropping scenes in blockbuster films but has since found its way into the world of marketing and business.
Making Unexciting Products Look Sexy
Let’s face it—some products aren’t inherently exciting. But that’s where CGI can step in and transform something mundane into something highly desirable. Using 3D animation, you can showcase your product from every angle, highlighting features in ways that wouldn’t be possible in a traditional video. With the right lighting, textures and motion, even the simplest of products can be made to look sleek and sexy.
Take a product like office furniture. It’s not the most thrilling thing to market, right? But imagine a CGI animation where a desk folds itself into position like a Transformer, with vibrant lighting and smooth, flowing movements. It’s suddenly gone from ordinary to something that looks cutting-edge, modern and worth investing in.
CGI in Social Media: The Mixed Reality Trend
On social media, CGI has become a go-to for creating trendy, eye-catching content. One of the most popular trends is the use of mixed reality, where CGI objects are placed into real filmed environments, often in playful or exaggerated ways. Oversized products, for example, can be seamlessly integrated into everyday settings to create a sense of wonder and surprise.
At Emotive 3D, we’ve done this with projects like Aston Martin F1’s ‘Out Of Office’ post, where CGI elements are blended with real-world footage to create something both engaging and shareable. Another example is our work with Disney, where we made Buzz Lightyear fly down Oxford Street in London. The beauty of this is that it doesn’t need a Hollywood-sized budget—these types of mixed reality shots can even be done on mobile phones, making it an affordable option for businesses of all sizes.
Taking Interviews to the Next Level
Interviews don’t have to be just a person sitting in a chair anymore. CGI can inject life into an otherwise straightforward conversation by adding 3D environments or interactive elements. Imagine an interview where the speaker’s words are brought to life through animated visuals, or where the scene shifts dynamically to different digital landscapes. This not only grabs attention but also makes the content far more engaging. An interview with George Russell was given the CGI treatment by Emotive 3D and actually created a piece of content that won multiple awards!
How could you use this technique for your business? Well, you could have an executive talking about a new product, with the product digitally appearing in 3D beside them, evolving and changing as they speak. The result is a much more dynamic and memorable piece of content, far removed from a traditional interview setup.
CGI for Trade Fairs and Digital Billboards
CGI isn’t just for screens—it can be used to create stunning content for live environments too. At trade fairs, animated 3D content can be displayed on screens to catch the attention of passers-by. Whether it’s a product demo or a flashy company logo coming to life, CGI allows you to showcase your brand in an innovative and visually compelling way.
Digital billboards are another area where CGI shines. High-end 3D visuals can bring your advert to life, creating an immersive experience that captures the public’s imagination. Whether you’re promoting a new product, service or event, CGI makes sure your message doesn’t just blend into the background.
View more of Emotive 3D’s CGI and 3D animation
Why Your Business Should Use CGI
CGI is a versatile tool that can benefit almost any type of business. It helps brands stand out on social media, it can turn boring products into must-haves and it provides a cost-effective way to create high-quality content. Whether you’re looking to impress at a trade fair, create a buzz on Instagram or just make your next promotional video a bit more exciting, CGI is a powerful way to achieve that.
And the best part? It doesn’t have to be expensive. Advances in technology have made CGI far more accessible, meaning that even small businesses can benefit from its possibilities.
So, if you’re looking to elevate your brand, why not consider using CGI animation? Whether it’s a product launch, an advert or social media content, the potential is limitless.
If you want to talk to us about creating some assets for your business click the link below.