2 years in DaVinci Fusion, 6 months chasing SaaS motion design — completely lost on how to move forward. Need a roadmap.
Hey r/motiongraphics (or wherever fits best),
I’ve been editing in DaVinci Resolve for about 2 years now and have been using Fusion as my primary compositing/motion tool. About 6 months ago I discovered SaaS motion design the clean UI animations, product explainers, onboarding flows and I immediately knew that’s the direction I want to take my career.
The problem? I have no idea how to structure my path forward and I feel like I’m spinning my wheels.
Where I’m at:
I can do basic motion work in Fusion but I don’t come from a design background. When I try to create something original, I go completely blank. I don’t know where to start visually color, layout, typography none of it comes naturally yet. I can execute if I have a reference, but I can’t originate.
The questions keeping me up at night:
Should I invest time in learning expressions in Fusion, or is that the wrong tool for SaaS motion design entirely? Should I be in After Effects instead?
How do I actually learn design fundamentals as someone who’s been purely on the technical/editing side? Where do I even start?
Is there a realistic roadmap from “can operate the tools” to “employable SaaS motion designer”?
Are there any senior motion designers or studios open to taking on someone as a mentee or offering an informal apprenticeship? I’m willing to work hard,I just need guidance from someone who’s been through this.
What I’m looking for:
Not just tool tutorials. I’ve watched plenty of those. I need to understand how to think like a designer, how to build a portfolio that’s relevant to SaaS companies, and whether I’m even in the right ecosystem with Fusion.
If you’ve made this transition — from technical editor to motion designer — I’d love to hear your path. And if you’re someone who mentors or takes on junior help, I’m genuinely open to that conversation.
Thanks in advance 🙏