Video Editor & Motion Designer | SaaS & Real Estate Specialist

Video has become an integral part of our everyday lives, capable of captivating millions worldwide and conveying stories in a way that mere words cannot match. From the big screen to the mobile screen, video has become the best way to connect to people like you, looking for what you do.

With expertise in Adobe Premiere Pro (since 2019) and After Effects (since 2021), I transform complex visual puzzles into compelling narratives that drive real business results. My work with SaaS companies has consistently delivered impressive outcomes, including an 80% growth in demand generation and a 1,590% increase in video views for recent campaigns.

I excel at two critical aspects of modern video production:

• Simplifying the complex: Creating explanatory content that makes technical products accessible and engaging

• Capturing attention: Crafting dynamic social media assets that stop the scroll and drive engagement

My specialized training with School of Motion has equipped me with advanced motion graphics capabilities that elevate standard video content into dynamic visual experiences.

I've completed projects across a diverse range of digital video content, specializing in:

• SaaS product demonstrations and explainer videos

• Corporate interviews and testimonials

• Real estate property showcases

• Brand culture and promotional videos

• YouTube content with strategic pacing for maximum engagement

One YouTube series I worked on has amassed well over a hundred thousand views and earned the channel its partner status. I've developed a keen understanding of platform-specific engagement tactics that keep viewers watching longer.

My six years as a C Suite Executive Assistant brings a level of professionalism and attention to detail that ensures smooth communication and project management. Additionally, my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology informs my editing choices, allowing me to create videos with deeper emotional impact that forge genuine connections with viewers.

Past clients include: Story Center, DNS Filter, Creator by Zmags, Loola.TV, Turquoise Health, SKAEL, Stable, MANTL, Veremark and Zogotech.

If you're looking for a video editor who combines technical expertise with psychological insight to create content that not only informs but also resonates and converts, let's connect!

Specialties: SaaS Product Videos | Motion Graphics | Real Estate Video | Corporate Storytelling | Adobe Creative Suite | Premiere Pro | After Effects | Social Media Optimization | YouTube Strategy | Branded Content

Mary Kirmo Among Best Freelance Video Editors/Motion Designers for Presentations to Hire in 2025!

I'm thrilled to share some exciting news with you all! I've recently been featured on Contra in the #2 spot for "Best freelance Motion Designers for Presentations to hire in 2025" and in the #5 spot for "Best Freelance Video Editors in California to hire in 2025."

Here are some of the best promo videos I’ve worked on.

Why This Recognition Matters

In today's digital landscape, where visual content reigns supreme, motion design and video editing have become crucial skills for businesses and creators alike. This recognition from Contra, a leading platform for independent professionals, validates the quality and impact of my work in these competitive fields.

Your viewers make subconscious decisions in milliseconds. Their brains are hardwired to prioritize content that triggers emotional responses—fear, surprise, curiosity, validation. Master these triggers and you don't just capture attention, you command it. That’s why I like to start content conversations with how you want your audience to feel.

Are video editors in demand in 2025?

Absolutely! With the continued explosion of video content across social media, streaming platforms, and corporate communications, skilled video editors are more sought-after than ever. According to industry projections, the demand for video content is expected to keep growing exponentially, making this an excellent time to be recognized in the field.

Video isn't just changing the game for businesses—it's completely rewriting the rules. With a staggering 84% of consumers making purchase decisions after watching brand videos and websites experiencing 88% longer visit durations when video is present, the numbers tell an undeniable story. Landing pages featuring video content convert at rates up to 80% higher than those without, while social videos generate a mind-blowing 1200% more shares than text and images combined. The ROI speaks volumes: 87% of marketers report positive returns from video investments, and 93% of businesses have directly acquired new customers through social media videos. In today's digital marketplace, video isn't just an option—it's the difference between being seen and being scrolled past, between connecting with your audience and being forgotten in the noise.

Here is a piece I did for internet security company DNSfilter:

Are video editing skills in demand?

The short answer is yes. Beyond traditional video editing, clients are looking for professionals who understand storytelling, branding, and the technical aspects of delivering high-quality video content. My ranking on Contra reflects not just technical proficiency but the ability to deliver results that help clients achieve their communication goals.

The return on investment speaks volumes, with marketers reporting positive returns and businesses directly acquiring new customers through social media videos. In today's digital marketplace, video isn't just an option—it's the difference between being seen and being scrolled past, between connecting with your audience and being forgotten in the noise. Don't just inform—transform their emotional state. Ready to harness this power? Let's create video content that doesn't just capture attention—it captures hearts, minds, and ultimately, conversions.

What This Means For My Clients

Being recognized among the "Best Freelance Video Editors in United States to Hire in 2025" and as a top motion designer for presentations means my clients can be confident they're working with a professional whose work stands out in a crowded marketplace.

This recognition highlights my commitment to:

• Delivering high-quality visual storytelling that captures audience attention

• Creating motion designs that elevate presentations beyond static slides

• Providing video editing that enhances brand messaging and achieves communication goals

• Staying at the cutting edge of visual trends and technical capabilities

Your competitors are still focusing on what they say. You know better—it's how you make viewers feel that determines who wins. Ready to engineer content that creates emotional addiction?

My Approach to Motion Design & Video Editing

My philosophy has always been to blend technical expertise with creative vision. Whether I'm designing motion graphics for a corporate presentation or editing video content for a California-based brand, I focus on:

1. Understanding the client's objectives and audience

2. Creating visual stories that resonate and engage

3. Applying technical precision to ensure professional quality

4. Delivering work that exceeds expectations and timelines

Looking Forward

This recognition from Contra energizes me to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in motion design and video editing. I'm excited to collaborate with new clients who are looking for top-tier visual content that stands out in 2025's competitive digital landscape.

If you're interested in working with one of the "Best Freelance Motion Designers for Presentations to Hire in 2025" or one of the "Best Freelance Video Editors in California to Hire in 2025," I'd love to discuss your project!

Let's Connect

Have a project in mind? Reach out to discuss how we can create compelling visual content together.

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to creating amazing visual content together!

The Power of Video in Real Estate: A Game-Changer for Home Sellers

In today's digital-first real estate market, video has emerged as an essential tool for showcasing properties and attracting potential buyers. As homeowners seek to maximize their selling potential, understanding the impact of video marketing becomes increasingly crucial.

The Visual Advantage

When selling a home, first impressions matter tremendously. Video offers a dynamic way to present a property that static photos simply cannot match. Through video, potential buyers can experience a virtual walkthrough, getting a better sense of the home's flow, dimensions, and overall feel before even stepping foot on the property.

What percentage of real estate agents use videos in their marketing?

Approximately 73% of real estate agents now use video as part of their marketing strategy. This represents a significant shift in the industry, with video adoption growing steadily each year. Leading agents understand that video content not only showcases properties more effectively but also helps them stand out in a competitive market. The remaining agents who haven't adopted video cite barriers such as technical challenges and production costs, though these obstacles are diminishing as video technology becomes more accessible.

Do videos sell homes faster?

Yes, homes marketed with professional video sell approximately 31% faster than those without video content. This acceleration in the sales process occurs for several reasons:

• Videos allow buyers to pre-screen properties more effectively, meaning those who schedule in-person viewings are already seriously interested

• Video walkthroughs provide 24/7 access to the property, expanding the potential buyer pool beyond local or available viewers

• Properties with video receive higher engagement on listing platforms, which typically translates to greater visibility and more inquiries

• Video content tends to be shared more widely on social media, extending the property's reach

How much does video increase sales?

Properties marketed with professional video content see an average of 34% more inquiries compared to those without. Additionally, listings with video receive up to 403% more inquiries than those with just photos. This increased interest often translates to:

• A wider pool of potential buyers

• More competitive offers

• A potential increase in final sale price of 2-3%

• Greater likelihood of receiving offers closer to asking price

Best Practices for Effective Real Estate Videos

To maximize the impact of video marketing when selling your home:

1. Prioritize quality production: Professional videography with proper lighting and stabilization makes a significant difference in how your property is perceived.

2. Tell a story: The most effective real estate videos don't just show a home—they tell the story of what life could be like for the new owners.

3. Highlight unique features: Use video to showcase special elements of your property that might not be immediately apparent in photos.

4. Keep it concise: While comprehensive coverage is important, most effective property videos run between 2-3 minutes to maintain viewer engagement.

5. Include drone footage: Aerial perspectives can provide context about the neighborhood, lot size, and proximity to amenities.

The Future of Real Estate Video

As technology advances, we're seeing the emergence of interactive 3D tours, VR experiences, and AI-enhanced video tools that further revolutionize how properties are marketed. Sellers who embrace these innovations position themselves at the forefront of a rapidly evolving market.

Invest in Professional Video—Or Be Left Behind

Professional video services aren't just an expense—they're an investment with measurable returns. Amateur footage simply cannot capture the essence of a property the way professional videographers can with their expert lighting, stabilization techniques, and storytelling abilities. The difference between smartphone footage and professional cinematography isn't just noticeable—it's the difference between a quick sale at premium price and a property that languishes on the market. In today's competitive real estate landscape, cutting corners on video production means cutting into your potential profits and extending your selling timeline. Don't let your listings fade into the background of scrolling thumbnails. Transform your properties into visual experiences that captivate, inspire, and motivate buyers to act NOW. Your dream clients are out there searching—make sure what they find isn't just another listing, but an emotional connection to their future home that compels them to pick up the phone today. The homes around you are being marketed with stunning video. Will yours be the one that buyers remember, or the one they scroll past?

 

Check out some of the work I’ve done with Legendary Real Estate Services of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin here.

The True Cost of Creating Motion Graphics: A Comprehensive Guide

Motion graphics have become an essential visual communication tool across marketing, education, entertainment, and beyond. But one question I frequently hear is: "How much does it cost to make a motion graphic?" Today, I'll break down the factors that influence pricing and showcase examples from industry professionals like motion graphic designer Mary Kirmo.

Understanding Motion Graphics Pricing Factors

The cost of motion graphics varies significantly based on several key factors:

1. Project complexity: Simple animated logos might cost $500-1,500, while elaborate explainer videos can range from $3,000-10,000+

2. Length: Typically priced per second or minute ($150-500 per second for professional work)

3. Style: 2D animation is generally less expensive than 3D animation

4. Timeline: Rush jobs often incur premium pricing

5. Usage Rights: Commercial usage, especially for major brands, affects pricing

Industry Insights from Mary Kirmo

Mary Kirmo, a skilled motion graphic designer based in Los Angeles, has been crafting digital animations for several years. She has extensive experience creating custom motion graphics templates using Adobe After Effects. "Each second of animation can take hours to create," notes Kirmo. "When clients understand the craftsmanship involved, the pricing makes more sense."

Kirmo's portfolio demonstrates how motion graphics can transform brand storytelling through custom animations and abstract visual narratives. Her expertise in After Effects allows her to create tailored solutions that meet clients' specific needs and vision.

Motion Graphics Examples by Budget Range

Entry-Level ($1,000-3,000)

- Simple animated logos

- Basic lower thirds for videos

- Social media animations

Mid-Range ($3,000-7,000)

- Professional explainer videos (1-2 minutes)

- Product demonstrations

- Animated infographics

High-End ($7,000-20,000+)

- Broadcast commercial animations

- Complex 3D animation sequences

- Full narrative pieces with character animation

Where to Find a Motion Graphics Designer for Your Project

When searching for the right professional, consider these approaches:

- Freelance platforms specializing in motion design talent

- Motion graphic designer portfolios on Behance and Vimeo

- Studios focusing on animation and motion graphics services

- Referrals from colleagues who've worked with motion graphics specialists

Budgeting Tips for Your Motion Graphics Project

To optimize your investment:

1. Be clear about your objectives

2. Provide detailed creative briefs

3. Consider template-based solutions for simpler needs

4. Plan adequate time to avoid rush fees

5. Discuss usage rights upfront

Motion graphics continue to evolve with new techniques in particle animation, liquid motion effects, and 3D integration. Whether you're looking for corporate motion graphics production or experimental motion design artwork, understanding the cost structure helps you budget appropriately for your specific needs.

Have you worked with motion graphics in your marketing? What has your experience been with pricing and ROI?

Motion & Meaning

The Dynamic Distinction: Motion Graphics Designers vs. Graphic Artists

In today's visually saturated digital landscape, two creative professions often find themselves sharing similar territory while maintaining distinct identities: motion graphics designers and graphic artists. Though both craft visual communication that captures attention and conveys messages, the difference between them is more than just semantics—it's fundamental to how they approach their creative process.

Graphic artists work in the realm of the static. They're the architects of visual identity, crafting logos, typography, and layouts that communicate instantly through fixed images. Their canvas is defined by space alone, with every element carefully positioned to create harmony, contrast, or tension within a single moment. Using tools like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, these visual problem-solvers think in terms of color relationships, compositional balance, and the psychology of fixed imagery. When you admire a striking poster, a cohesive brand identity, or an elegant magazine spread, you're appreciating the work of a graphic artist who has distilled complex ideas into a single, powerful visual statement.

Motion graphics designers, by contrast, work in the four-dimensional world where time becomes an essential creative element. They take the principles of graphic design and set them into choreographed movement, creating visual narratives that unfold sequentially. Using software like After Effects and Cinema 4D, these digital animators consider not just how elements look, but how they behave—how they enter the frame, interact with other elements, and transition between states.

 

Their work breathes life into static imagery, adding layers of meaning through movement, timing, and progression. The animated logo that morphs into a product shot, the kinetic typography that dances across a commercial, the interactive elements that respond to user actions—these are the domains of motion graphics designers who understand that movement itself communicates.

The distinction becomes most apparent in how each professional approaches a project. A graphic artist might spend hours perfecting the precise relationship between elements on a business card, while a motion graphics designer might dedicate that same time to crafting three seconds of a seamless transition. One thinks in inches and pixels; the other in frames and seconds. Yet increasingly, these worlds overlap as digital media demands professionals who can operate across the spectrum of static and animated content.

As brands seek to maintain consistent visual identities across multiple platforms, the line between these disciplines continues to blur. Many creative professionals now develop skills in both areas, moving fluidly between static and animated work. What remains constant is the shared commitment to visual storytelling—whether captured in a single, powerful moment or unfolded across time in a dynamic sequence of images that engage, inform, and inspire.

How I Conceptualize Branding/Audience

It is somewhat rare to encounter a marketing team with a fully formed set of ideal clients. It is even more rare to encounter solo-preneurs who have spent the time fleshing out profiles for their ideal audience. I suspect the hesitation comes from a place of fear and not wanting to get it wrong, but the truth is you cannot get it wrong.

Will you miss out on potential clients/fans by narrowing your focus? Maybe. Maybe not. If you’re aiming for everyone, you’re actually aiming for no one and that’s exactly what you’ll get!

If you’re aiming for everyone, you’re aiming for no one.

I realize it can seem daunting to dig into that creative space and sketch out some “characters”. What if these people don’t actually exist, and other lies our brain tells us. We are hard wired to come up with the many ways in which something might threaten our survival. This is natural and normal. It keeps us alive. However, it also limits us.

Perhaps it’s been a while since you’ve exercised that creative muscle in your brain and you find it challenging to start. Well! I understand and I’m here to tell you that not only should you do it, you absolutely can do it and it might even be fun! Below are some questions and examples to get you started on the path of finding your ideal audience.

“Your ideal fan isn’t *necessarily* the same as people who are already fans.”

Instead of focusing on your “brand” think about your mission or, better yet, your quest! You’re out there fighting big battles every day! You have something to share that’s important and will absolutely help people. Afterall, you are the lead character in your story! You’re the hero of this journey.

Thought Experiment Prompts:

• What is your main quest? 

• What are the available side quests?

Who is it for? Get really specific. I like to come up with five super specific, different people, that I roughly [word] sketch ahead of time. I include things like lifestyle, hobbies, relationships, communities and I let my imagination run wild. It’s a thought/writing (yes, please actually get your creative writing on!! and commit the ideas to paper) exercise that will help you have direction. 

Character Prompts:

• How old are they

• What are their favorite stores

• What hobbies and interests do they have

• Are they married

•  Do they have kids/if so how many

• What kind of car do they drive

• What kind of work do they do

Why is this important? 

Below are two characters I’ve sketched out as my ideal fans for a cooking show I’m producing. Imagine if you will, the characters below and how the video production might differ.

Meet Betty!

Betty is a 45 year old nurse who is married with two kids (ages 8 and 11) who is involved in her community and a member of two monthly social clubs and enjoys hosting those clubs every month with healthy buffets that all the attendees rave about and ask for the recipes. She is a bargain hunter with minimal down time. She loves being on the go but also needs to be very efficient with everything she does so that she can keep up with all her activities, family and work life without getting overwhelmed. She is also the person on her shift who does the baking and loves sharing that with the other nurses on her shifts. 

Meet Ron!

Ron is 32, lives in a well-appointed 3 bedroom condo with an ample dining room in an up and coming trendy neighborhood in New York with his partner Ethan and their two chihuahua mix rescue dogs. On the weekends they love to stroll the local farmer’s markets and find new things to try for the home cooked recipes they will make for the week. They love eating out and their cooking-in strives to match the culinary excellence they have come to love living in a diverse metroplolitan area. They have small dinner parties every other week with two other couples and they are known for being able to recreate deeply authentic cuisine from places they’ve traveled to. They love introducing their friends to different food cultures as well.  Their dinner table is set extravagantly and they always do at least a three course meal with full place settings. 

FAQs: Motion Design & Animation

I am often asked about the kinds of motion graphics I do and thought it would be fun to put together a compilation reel presented as if it's a text conversation with clients. I've worked on a wide variety of videos with many different types of clients. However, my most often produced projects fall into the category of "Brand Story & Company Culture" where the brand is seeking to share their mission or values in a fun and engaging way. 

 

SaaS Projects I've done include:

Product Demos

Onboarding Videos

Tutorials

Customer Testimonials

Webinar Cutdowns for long-term posts

Promotional Videos & Ads

Thought Leadership 

Recruitment 

Video Deliverables I've worked with include:

1920x1080 - this is the typical horizontal HD video you see posted on social media and YouTube

1080x1080 - square videos in HD found on instagram 

1600x1200 - referred to as "full screen" videos and technically speaking are 4:3; this format is popularly used on Facebook ads

1080x1920 - vertical video in HD that is the best practice size for TikTok, Instagram Reels, Facebook Stories, Instagram Stories, and YouTube Shorts

3840x2160 - commonly understood as 4k or Ultra HD; best suited to televisions and currently best practice for YouTube long form videos

 

If you're looking to bring your brand story to life with engaging motion graphics, I'm here to help. I specialize in creating compelling "Brand Story & Company Culture" videos that highlight your mission and values in an enjoyable way. With experience in a variety of projects, including product demos, onboarding videos, tutorials, customer testimonials, and promotional ads, I can deliver high-quality content tailored to your needs. Whether it's a horizontal HD video for YouTube, a square video for Instagram, or a vertical video for TikTok, I have the expertise to produce videos in any format you require. Let's work together to make your brand shine!

Finding Creative Ways to Solve Problems

As a video editor and motion graphics designer it comes naturally to me to see the world in projected pictures and it is my job to help the client get to their end result. Not everyone can visualize how something will look. In this case we were having trouble settling on the right font for the animation and titles that would appear in the dungeons and dragons sizzle reel so I put together this sample set. It worked great! The client was able to see exactly how each option would look and feel with the specific backgrounds and music choices we had already made.

Happy clients, happy life!

"Mary was super great! She created the video exactly how I wanted! I would recommend her to anyone!" ~ Nonya

 

I don't use pre-fab templates when creating motion graphics for clients. I like to give them each something unique and on-brand. This doesn't mean I'm not efficient ~ I make great use of pre-sets when they make sense. It means I do know how to operate all of the parameters within Adobe After Effects to get the perfect flow and unique branding for each video.

How to Hire the Right Video Editor

Clearly communicating deadlines/timelines, project parameters, overall scope of the project and budget create a safe space within which to creatively collaborate. Having expectations that are in alignment ensures a positive working relationship.

Take a look at the editor’s portfolio and pay particular attention to sound, image, transitions and overall style. Does the portfolio reflect a range of ability or are the videos all quite similar with regard to pacing and cuts? You don’t want to hire someone who is going to approach it in a formulaic way or from the perspective of “job done.” If you are going to the trouble of finding someone, make sure the person you hire is giving your content the unique attention it deserves.

Things to consider when getting quotes for your project:

* The timeline for your project. Clearly communicated deadlines keep everyone happy and stress-free.

* The total number of minutes in run-time you anticipate your completed project to be.

* File sizes and how you expect your finished file to look and where you plan to post it.

* How many cuts per minute will be in your finished video. This can vary widely depending on overall style and preference.

* How your footage was captured, aka what camera was used.

* What frame rate was your footage shot at?

* How many minutes of footage need to be reviewed by the editor before the project can begin?

What separates a professional digital video editor from an amateur?

Amateurs tend to use flashy editing techniques, which is great if it serves your content. However, it oftentimes doesn’t. A true professional understands your content goals and audience to create content that will appeal to your subscribers and increase watch time. 

How much does it cost to hire a video editor?

The costs of hiring a video editor vary widely. If you look on Upwork or Fiverr you’ll notice rates as low as $20 for a finished edit and as high as $1000. The difference between those estimates has to do with the footage you provide, the finished length of your video, what kinds of technical aspects will need to be addressed such as sound and color correcting and where you plant to show off your video once it’s done. Green editors tend to bid low because they are building up their portfolio. More experienced editors tend to bid higher.

A polished thirty second commercial costs somewhere between $1500 to $2000. This price includes a comprehensive team of people to address sound and color as well as the edit.

An edit with ten cuts per minute takes less time than an edit with twenty cuts per minute.

If you plan to have somewhere between 5 cuts per minute - which works out to be a change in the video every 12 seconds - then plan on about 1.5 hours of editing time per minute of finished video.

A good rule I like to follow whenever I’m hiring someone to do something for me is to pick the person with the rate that is the most in the middle, when I’m in new territory. While it can seem like a bargain to hire the person with the lowest rate it hasn’t been my experience that it actually works out that way. [One unfortunate incident ended with a rather burned up garage full of storage items for having went with the lowest cost roofer!] Whether it’s a roof, a video edit, or a new pair of pants, you’ll probably end up with exactly what you paid for. Go for the middle.