How Long Does It Take to Make a Claymation Advertisement?

Claymation is a handmade craft, so it takes longer to produce than filming a quick clip or rendering a digital animation. Exactly how long depends on several factors, but understanding them helps you plan your campaign and set realistic expectations.

Why claymation takes time

Every second of claymation is built from 12 to 24 individual photographs, each requiring the models to be posed and adjusted by hand. On top of the shooting, there is sculpting, set building, editing and sound. It is patient work — and that patience is exactly what gives the result its charm.

The main factors that affect timeline

Length of the ad

The biggest factor. A 10-second ad has far fewer frames to shoot than a 30-second one, so it moves through production faster. See how long a video advertisement should be.

Complexity of the animation

Simple movements — a product rotating, a character waving — animate quickly. Complex sequences with multiple characters, detailed facial expressions or lots of interacting elements take considerably longer, because every element must be adjusted between frames.

Number of characters and sets

A single hero product on a clean set is quicker than a full cast in an elaborate miniature world. More to sculpt and more to animate means more time.

Sound and voiceover

Adding custom music, sound design and professional voiceover extends post-production, though it is often well worth it for the polish it adds.

Revisions

Clear direction up front keeps things moving. Multiple rounds of significant changes — especially to animation already shot — add time, since reshooting frames is not quick.

The stages and where time goes

• Concept and script: shaping the idea and locking the direction.
• Storyboarding: planning every shot before sculpting begins.
• Sculpting and set building: making everything by hand.
• Animation: the most time-intensive stage, shot frame by frame.
• Editing and sound: compiling frames and adding polish.

For the full breakdown, see how are claymation videos made.

How to keep your timeline efficient

• Have a clear brief. Knowing your message, hook and call to action up front prevents costly changes later.
• Keep it focused. One clear idea animates faster than a crammed one.
• Choose the right length. Match duration to your goal rather than defaulting to longer.
• Give timely feedback. Prompt, decisive feedback at each stage keeps momentum.

Plan ahead for launches

Because claymation is crafted rather than churned out, it rewards a little planning. If you are timing an ad to a product launch or campaign, start the conversation early so the craft has room to shine — see how to create an advertisement for a new product.

Get a timeline for your idea

Every project is different, so the best way to get an accurate timeline is to tell us what you have in mind. Clayd Creative will scope the length, complexity and schedule with you. See our pricing or start a project.