As a motion graphic designer myself working in After Effects and other software for years, I found several ways to make money.

Here are some of the best ways I found:

Freelancing

Freelancing is a popular option for motion graphic designers. You can offer your services to clients on a project-by-project basis, either independently or through freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Freelancing gives you flexibility in terms of the type of projects you take on and the hours you work, but it also requires you to actively seek out clients and manage your own business.

Full-time employment

Many motion graphic designers work for design agencies, production companies, or in-house creative teams. Full-time employment provides a steady income and benefits for your family, but you may have less creative control and flexibility compared to freelancing, you just have to choose base on your lifestyle.

Selling stock graphics

You can create and sell your own motion graphic templates, elements, and presets on stock graphic marketplaces. The well known motion graphics markeplace are Envato Elements, shutterstock, Adobe Stock and Pond5

This can be a passive income stream once you’ve created the content, but it may require ongoing updates and maintenance, also you should know that you might need to create a substantial amount of animations to start making money, some animation won’t take off and other will regularly sell, you just have to do a research on the trend and footage that could sell.

Teaching

If you have expertise in motion graphics, you can share your knowledge by creating and selling online courses or offering coaching or mentorship services. Teaching can be a fulfilling way to make money while helping others learn and improve their skills, this method can be rewarding since you are sharing and learning at the same time. there are several teaching website where you can create your course such as Teachable, Udemy, Kajabi…

YouTube and social media

You can create your own YouTube channel or social media accounts to showcase your work and build an audience. With enough subscribers or followers, you can earn money through advertising revenue, sponsorships, or selling merchandise.

Here is a inspiration of a couple of successful people in the motion graphic area on youtube and Instagram.
– MotionDesigners
– Goro Fijita
– deekaymotion
– BenMarriott
– FattuTutorials

Base on my years of experience as a motion graphic designer I think the best way to make money as a motion graphic designer will depend on your skills, interests, and goals. It’s important to experiment with different approaches and find the ones that work best for you, finally be patient and focused will help 🙂