Lecture: Creating Animated Components with Figma, After Effects, and Lottie Files

Introduction

• Exciting new series on creating animated components
• Focus on using Figma, After Effects, and Lottie animations
• Aim: Integrate animations directly into web apps without using CSS, GIFs, or videos

Overview of the Series

• Build animations in Figma
• Import and enhance them in After Effects
• Export as Lottie files for developer use

Why Use Figma, After Effects, and Lottie?

• Figma: For initial design and interactive component creation
• After Effects: Enhance animations with motion graphics
• Lottie Files:
  • Export lightweight, scalable animations
  • Avoids issues with GIFs/videos (e.g., large file size, heavy loading)
  • Directly usable in apps, improving developer handoff

Example Project: Liquid Toggle Button

• Demonstrates fluid, engaging animation
• More exciting than simple on/off UI elements
• Adds quality and fun to digital products

After Effects Details

• Part of Adobe Suite, not open-source
• Can use Adobe's free trial for learning purposes
• Enhances animations with curves, seamless transitions

Advantages of Lottie Files

• Tiny file size (e.g., 56 KB vs. 375 KB for GIF)
• SVG-based, scalable without pixelation
• Faster and more efficient than GIFs

Using Lottie Files

• Example: Worldbratdesign.com shows Lottie usage
• Offers smooth, quick-loading animations
• Easier for designers to work with than CSS animations

Learning and Resources

• Explore Lottie files via their website
• Download free animations for practice
• Follow tutorials to deepen understanding

Future of the Series

• Further videos will cover additional components and animations
• Potential topics: menus, onboarding sequences, graphic illustrations

Conclusion

• Series provides designers the ability to create code-ready animations
• No need for heavy, sluggish GIFs or videos
• Encourages following the series for comprehensive learning experience
• Look forward to future videos and subscribe for updates