Study task 3 - Research

2D vs 3D Animation 

Through immersing myself in 3D medium for this group project, I've learnt through experience the hardships of using 3D softwares in comparison with 2D tradigital, as well as the advantages and functionalities which 3D techniques are able to provide. 

Specifically, I've been using the 3D software Maya for this group project. As I was not experienced with it I've been learning a lot through working with it in the group project. Specifically, I've been developing my skills on animation, rendering and camera movements; I also worked a bit on modelling and texturing. 

As 3D Animation is becoming more and more popular in film and animation, the softwares in which 3D animation are produced upon are developing rapidly. With a lot of film industries progressing towards using 3D animation for full films. 

According to Vanhanaa Mahinder (2016), they state, 2D animation provides a cartoonish nature to the audience as it is more abstract and not an imitation of real life. Besides being able to provide nostalgia from the cartoonish vibe, in production conditions, it has costs less in comparison, takes less time to produce, less complicated to produce as it is less software dependant. However, some disadvantages of this practice is that it is less demanded compared to 3D as 3D is on the rising. Moreover 2D animation can be time consuming especially if a studio decides to create cel-based animation; no templates can be reused therefore, studios are giving up on 2D animation. 3D Animation is able to give off a realistic portrayal of environments and characters, moreover models of characters and environments can be reused, saving time and money. In contrary to all the benefits, 3D animation are all currently limited to the software itself. As 3D animation is purely dependant on the functionality and limitation of the software, it is obvious that not everything can be accomplished; therefore it is limited and less feasible. 


In addition to the mentioned benefits, CIIT (2019) College of Arts and Technology stated, 3D animation is a powerful business tool. As study suggests that the brain could process visual sequences 60,000 times faster than texts, this results in visual imagery in promotion being a powerful tool. In 3D Animation standpoint, it is able to appeal universally and making it interesting to the viewers compared to text. Through using animation in advertisements, brand companies are able to engage and connect promoters to the audiences piquing their interest in their products and services. Moreover, it is also able to create individuality and uniqueness, great for standing out amongst other advertisements. As we are in a digital age, 3D animation is great as it can be shared on multiple platforms, gaining more exposure within the multi million users online. According to Dreamgrow (no date), a content making and social information platform, including an animation promotional video on a landing page can increase conversations by 80%. Finally, it is efficient, as 3D animation is able to produce photorealistic products, achieving 100 percent accuracy is easier as errors are easier to spot and find; saving time and money through 3D software technology.


Manhinder, V. (2016) 2D vs 3D Animation - Pros and Cons. Available at: https://medium.com/@vandhana.appiness/2d-vs-3d-animation-pros-and-cons-51daba16a4ec (Accessed 15 December 2019)

CIIT (2019) 3D Animation Benefits: Exploring its Impact to Business and Branding. Available at: https://www.ciit.edu.ph/3d-animation-benefits/  (Accessed 15 December 2019)