Video
From titles to transitions, on-screen elements are designed to clarify, not compete. Clean and compelling 2D animations create opportunities to pinpoint key information, guide attention, and support the story being told.
Bugs
Bugs (sometimes referred to as “watermarks”) serve as a subtle yet effective way to brand our video content. These on-screen logos ensure consistency across our visuals while maintaining a professional and polished look. Bugs can be used on content that's shared broadly and externally and should always appear in the upper right corner of the frame. To optimize visibility and maintain clarity, production bugs are available in two colors.
Light Bug: Use this version when the footage appears over a dark background to ensure the logo stands out without overpowering the content.
Dark Bug: Use this version when the footage appears over a light background for optimal contrast and legibility.
Lower Thirds
Lower thirds are text and graphic overlays placed in the lower portion of a video screen, used to display information like names and titles. To maintain consistency and alignment with Morningstar’s video style, lower thirds should:
- Always appear in the lower left corner of the frame for a cohesive and predictable viewer experience.
- Always contain the name, title, and company of the person being featured.
- Always use Morningstar Intrinsic Regular typeface.
Do ensure the lower third is shown only when the speaker is on camera, keeping the context clear.
Don’t cut to a different shot or image while the lower third graphic is on screen.
Fullscreens
Fullscreens occupy the entire display area of a video to help convey additional information, enhance a story, or create a specific visual break. They are typically used for strategic storytelling purposes such as introducing information, summarizing key points, or providing a temporary break from the main content. Fullscreen graphic designs should adhere to and align with the predetermined design strategy of the content, product, or campaign.
Side Panels
Side panels are vertical design elements positioned alongside the main video content. These panels enhance the viewing experience by organizing supplementary information in a way that complements the primary visual and auditory elements without overwhelming the audience.
Purpose: Side panels are used to declutter the main video area by displaying supporting information, statistics, or key points that enhance or reinforce the voiceover content.
Design Alignment: All side panel graphics should adhere to and align with the predetermined design strategy of the content, product, or campaign.
Clarity and Simplicity: Side panels should be visually clean and easy to read, maintaining a balance between functionality and design appeal.
Call to Action Graphics and End Cards
Call to Action (CTA) and End Card graphics are strategically designed to guide the audience while reinforcing brand identity.
CTAs act as prompts, encouraging viewers to take specific actions, such as visiting a website, signing up for a service, or exploring additional resources. Effective CTAs are clear and concise, ensuring the message is easily understood. They are also actionable, using direct language that inspires engagement.
Every CTA should be paired with a Morningstar logo end card, which serves as the final visual in the video.
Graphics Transitions
A graphics transition is a technique where animated shapes, logos, or patterns are used to bridge two different shots or concepts, creating a smooth, visually engaging flow. Unlike simple cuts or dissolves, graphic transitions use bespoke design elements to reinforce branding, add visual interest, and guide the viewers eye to the next scene.
Do create seamless moments by aligning the transition over footage.
Do adhere to Morningstar's design strategy when designing graphics transitions, ensuring they align with the content, product, or campaign’s overall aesthetic and messaging.
Don’t use canned transitions (e.g., wipes, spins, or flashy effects), as they can feel generic or unprofessional.
Subtitles
Subtitles are on-screen text that display dialogue and key audio elements, making videos accessible to wider audiences, including those with hearing impairments or watching without sound. They should be placed at the bottom center of the screen, within the safe zone, and formatted for readability without obstructing the lower third. Subtitles should always use Morningstar Intrinsic Regular typeface, be 45pt, include a black bar underneath the text, set to 85% opacity, and contain 6-8 words per line.
