School of Motion Podcast Why Motion Designers Are Having a Moment — with Adobe's Michael Tanzillo
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Sep 10, 2025 Michael Tanzillo, Head of 3D Technical Artists at Adobe, shares his intriguing journey from lighting animated films to leading the Substance 3D team. He discusses the rising prominence of motion designers in animation studios and emphasizes that foundational skills like storytelling are timeless. The conversation delves into integrating 3D tools within Adobe, efficiency in motion design, and the transformative power of 3D in various industries. Tanzillo also tackles the role of AI in creativity, highlighting the importance of human artistry and genuine industry connections.
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Stylization Connects Worlds
- Entertainment 3D shifted from chasing photorealism toward stylized looks inspired by motion graphics.
- That shift narrows the gap between film production aesthetics and motion design.
Business Drivers For 3D
- Many non-entertainment industries use 3D to prototype, reduce waste, and cut costs—not just to make pretty images.
- Companies adopt 3D for financial value like faster validation, fewer returns, and cheaper prototyping.
Pitch By Listening First
- When pitching companies, start with discovery: ask questions and listen for pain points before selling solutions.
- Tailor proposals to measurable business outcomes like cost, speed, or scale to show real value.