Which Video Treatment to Choose
- Midhina Lakkimsetty
- Apr 30
- 4 min read
Updated: May 20
Are you planning to create a video? If yes, the first big decision is choosing the right technique.
There are three primary categories: Live-action, Mixed Media, and Animation. Every other video style is a variation or combination of these core techniques—much like mixing primary colors to create new shades.
However, selecting the right approach isn’t just a technical decision. It should be a strategic choice aligned with your business objectives, audience preferences, and budget. The right treatment can amplify your message and ensure your video delivers the intended impact.
The best way to avoid surprises is to ask for a reference video. The closer it is to your subject and style, the better you can assess how your final video will turn out.
Let’s break down the three main techniques and how they fit into today’s rapidly evolving video landscape:
Live-Action: The Human Touch
Nothing captures human emotion and authenticity like live-action. Whether we feature professional actors or company representatives, audiences tend to connect deeply with real people.
When to Choose Live-Action:
When you need to establish trust by showcasing real people.
If you want an evergreen appeal with a longer shelf life.
When storytelling or a fictional narrative requires professional actors for a compelling performance.
AI & Tech Influence:
AI-driven post-production tools are enhancing live-action videos with automated editing, color grading, and even AI-generated backgrounds.
AI-generated human-like images can serve as cost-effective alternatives to stock footage or live shoots, maintaining realism while saving time and resources.
Deepfake and AI voice cloning allow seamless voiceovers and localized adaptations. However, companies must use these technologies responsibly, ensuring transparency and ethical usage.
Pro Tip: Pre-production planning is essential for any live-action shoot. Proper preparation ensures smoother execution, minimizes retakes, and keeps production efficient.
Mixed Media: The Versatile Blend
Mixed media combines elements like stock footage, custom-shot video, photos, motion graphics, and text overlays. It is one of the most widely used techniques due to its flexibility and efficiency.
When to Choose Mixed Media:
If you have existing assets (images, footage) that can be repurposed for cost efficiency.
When the narrative benefits from a combination of text, visuals, and animation.
If the content needs a dynamic, engaging style while maintaining simplicity.
AI & Tech Influence:
AI-powered automated video editing tools can stitch together footage, match music beats, and generate voiceovers in multiple languages.
AI video upscaling and enhancement can improve the quality of old or stock footage.
AI-generated human images and virtual presenters provide an alternative to expensive live-action shoots, enabling cost savings while maintaining realism. That said, businesses must ensure AI-generated content aligns with ethical standards and does not mislead audiences.
Pro Tip: Thoughtful transitions, consistent branding, and color grading are key to making mixed-media videos feel polished and cohesive.
Animation: The Power of Visual Storytelling
Animation is a broad category encompassing 2D, 3D, motion graphics, claymation, and more. It offers complete creative freedom and the ability to visualize complex ideas in an engaging way.
When to Choose Animation:
If your audience is receptive to animated content and it aligns with your brand identity.
When speed and cost efficiency are top priorities (especially for 2D animation).
For product demos, explainer videos, or technical visualizations where live-action isn't practical.
If you need a multi-language version, as animation is easier to modify than live-action.
Evolving Landscape:
AI-assisted animation tools are streamlining production, reducing costs, and improving animation quality.
The commoditization of basic 2D animation means differentiation is now crucial—custom art styles and fluid motion can help videos stand out.
Generative AI is expediting the creation of 3D assets and environments, making high-end animation more accessible.
Pro Tip: Instead of relying on generic templates, invest in custom illustration styles and seamless motion graphics to elevate your animation.
Budget Management Across Techniques
Regardless of the technique you choose, here are some ways to optimize costs:
Live-Action:
Utilize existing media (internal footage, images) to reduce shoot time.
Leverage internal spaces instead of renting locations.
Consider internal team members for minor roles to minimize actor costs.
Create a scratch edit (rough assembly) before final production to avoid costly revisions.
Animation:
Use stock assets and royalty-free elements where possible.
Keep animations simple—detailed character animation increases costs.
Finalize script and storyboard before production to avoid rework.
Mixed Media:
Opt for stock footage instead of custom shoots when appropriate.
Keep animation lightweight if budget is a constraint.
Choose template-based transitions and effects where possible.
High-End Choices That Drive Costs Up
For those willing to invest in premium-quality video, here are factors that increase costs:
Custom-designed characters and complex animations
Seamless transitions and motion effects
Celebrity voiceovers or specially composed music
High-end production equipment and CGI effects
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Approach
The best video treatment aligns with your goals, audience, and available resources. With AI and emerging technology reshaping video production, hybrid techniques are becoming more powerful than ever.
At Agram Konnect, we specialize in crafting high-impact videos that blend creativity with the latest technological advancements. Whether it's live-action, animation, or AI-powered mixed media, we help you choose the right approach for maximum effectiveness.
Let’s collaborate on your next project, because the right video treatment makes all the difference.
