Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
Bringing Samsung's Galaxy Buds FE campaign to life through character animation and immersive visual storytelling.
Case Study • 2023
Role: Motion Design • Character Animation • Copy Animation
Deliverables: 3 Social Films
Focus: Motion Storytelling • Social Campaigns • Illustration in Motion
During my time at Iris Worldwide, Samsung commissioned a series of three animated social films to promote the launch of the Galaxy Buds FE.
Each film focused on a distinct product benefit - Perfect Match, Ergonomics, and Active Noise Cancelling - while maintaining a cohesive visual style across the campaign. Working directly with Samsung during the animation production phase, my role was to translate a more ‘out of the box’ visual direction into polished motion and character animation.
The Brief
Joining during production, I collaborated closely with the lead designer, and took ownership of the motion design process across all three films. I brought the expressive artwork to life through character animation, product reveals, copy animation, and lively transitions.
The challenge was to preserve the charm of the original illustrations while adding rhythm, personality, and clarity. Each animation was carefully crafted to support the narrative, through multiple rounds of refinement and client feedback, and with the intent that custom music tracks could later be composed.
The Approach
The first film explored the idea of the Galaxy Buds FE being the perfect companion to your Galaxy phone through the metaphor of a romantic couple enjoying a picnic together. As the pair shared their earbuds, the story reinforced the idea of compatibility and connection.
My animation focused on expressive character performance, cinematic camera movement, and playful transitions that enhanced the narrative without distracting from the product message.
‘Perfect Match’
The Ergonomics film centred on the comfort and effortless fit of the Galaxy Buds FE. Using detailed close-up illustrations alongside character animation, the film demonstrated how naturally the earbuds integrate into everyday life.
Animation played a key role in communicating this sense of ease. As the earbuds were worn, the central character’s outlook transformed, visually reinforcing the feeling of comfort and immersion.
‘Ergonomics’
The final film showcased Active Noise Cancelling through a dramatic environmental transformation. A noisy crowd dissolves into a tranquil outer-space meditation scene, visually communicating the experience of escaping distractions.
This piece relied heavily on motion to sell the concept. Using environmental transitions paired with sound visualisations, the contrast between chaos and calm highlighted the effectiveness of wearing the buds.
‘Active Noise Cancelling’
Credit
Creative: Iris Worldwide
Design: Nicole Vanner
Motion Designers: Rebecca Ransom