Easing

Term from Motion Graphics industry explained for recruiters

Easing is a technique that makes animated movements look more natural and smooth. Instead of objects moving at a constant speed, easing makes them speed up or slow down gradually, just like things move in the real world. Think of how a car doesn't go from stop to full speed instantly - it accelerates gradually. Motion designers use easing to create more professional and appealing animations for websites, videos, and presentations. This term might also appear as "animation curves" or "timing functions" in job descriptions.

Examples in Resumes

Created engaging animations using Easing techniques in After Effects

Applied various Easing curves to improve motion fluidity in UI animations

Implemented custom Easing functions to enhance user interface transitions

Typical job title: "Motion Designers"

Also try searching for:

Motion Designer Animation Artist Motion Graphics Designer UI Animator Digital Animator Interactive Designer Motion Graphics Artist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you choose the right easing type for different animation scenarios?

Expected Answer: A senior motion designer should explain how different easing types create different feelings - like using ease-out for responsive UI elements and ease-in-out for smoother transitions. They should mention considering the context, timing, and user experience.

Q: How do you maintain consistent easing across a large project with multiple animations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating animation style guides, using presets or libraries, and ensuring consistency across team members. Should mention documentation and training other team members.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between linear motion and eased motion?

Expected Answer: Should explain how linear motion looks mechanical and unnatural, while eased motion adds acceleration and deceleration to make movements more organic and appealing.

Q: How do you test if your easing choices are effective?

Expected Answer: Should discuss testing animations at different speeds, getting feedback from users/stakeholders, and making adjustments based on the project's needs and audience response.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic types of easing?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain ease-in (slow start, fast end), ease-out (fast start, slow end), and ease-in-out (slow start, fast middle, slow end) in simple terms.

Q: Why is easing important in animation?

Expected Answer: Should explain that easing makes animations look more natural and professional by mimicking real-world physics and movement patterns.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of easing types
  • Simple animation timing
  • Using preset easing curves
  • Basic motion principles

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Custom easing curve creation
  • Complex animation timing
  • Multiple element coordination
  • Animation optimization

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced motion system design
  • Team animation direction
  • Custom easing function development
  • Motion strategy planning

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic animation principles
  • Can't explain why different easing types are used
  • No experience with industry-standard animation software
  • Portfolio shows only linear, mechanical movements

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