Yimeng Sun is a Chicago-based motion designer. She studied Animation at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she discovered her passion for motion design. Since then, Yimeng has collaborated with brands like Google, Amazon, Meta, and State Street, bringing together vibrant color, delicate detail, and compelling storytelling. She enjoys staying curious about everything and constantly exploring new techniques and styles in her work.

How many years have you been a judge?

1-3

What excited you about judging for the Telly Awards?

It’s the most exciting time in a year to see all the creative works!

What was your first job in the industry? What did it teach you?

My first job was at The Mill, it was top level in the industry which taught me to do most inspiring work while kept high qulity work.

What project are you most proud to have worked on?

I’m really proud of the work I did on the Google and State Street OOH campaigns. The UI animation and kinetic type were challenging in the best way, and finding that balance between clean design and strong storytelling felt great. Seeing the work out in the world across social and Time Square OOH was a big moment for me.

What’s the most challenging part about your job and/or the industry?

I would say you need to keep up with the new tools and styles in a fast going industry.

What do you look for to determine excellence in video?

Something special but high-quality.

What are your current roles and responsibilities and what do you love most about your job?

My current role is motion designer focused on 2D animation and visual storytelling. I design and animate for social campaigns, OOH, broadcast, and brand experiences past client are Google, Meta and New York Times. What I love most is bringing ideas to life through motion, finding the rhythm, clarity, and emotion that make a story feel alive.

What inspired you to pursue your career path?

It was always in my vein since I was kid, I love to draw and doing weird stuff.

In your experience, what is a significant change you are seeing happen in the video, television, and/or film industry, and what insight can you share about how to navigate it?

Definitely with so much AI going on. I’d say don’t be scared of it. Use it to make your work easier and your workflow smoother.