Photo courtesy of Hakan Acarel
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3D motion design is a competitive space where specialization often defines an artist’s career. What makes Hakan Acarel stand out is his dual certification in the industry’s key software programs: Cinema 4D and After Effects.
He holds certifications in both — Maxon Certified Pro User for Cinema 4D and Adobe Certified Professional for Video Design with After Effects — a combination so uncommon that Hakan believes he might be one of only a few artists worldwide to achieve it. This dual expertise allows him to move seamlessly between 3D and 2D animation, delivering projects that catch the eye of major players in entertainment and advertising.
Delivering for Adobe and Paramount
One of Hakan’s biggest accomplishments came when Adobe tapped him for a trailer editing contest tied to the movie Terminator: Dark Fate, a collaboration with Paramount Pictures. His work earned a spot on Adobe’s official YouTube channel, a significant nod for an artist working outside the U.S. market.
For a Germany-based designer, getting noticed by two giants like Adobe and Paramount shows how far his skills can reach. The contest was a chance for Hakan to showcase his editing and motion design abilities to an international audience, and he delivered.
This highlights how his dual certifications pay off. With Cinema 4D, he can craft detailed 3D visuals, while his After Effects expertise lets him polish those creations into smooth, dynamic sequences. The Terminator: Dark Fate feature was a clear sign of his ability to handle high-profile projects that demand precision and creativity.
Adding new tricks to HDR animation
Acarel’s expertise extends beyond animation software. He has also made significant contributions to the field of 3D product animation, particularly with his innovative use of HDR Light Studio.
While HDR Light Studio is typically associated with lighting design for still renders, Hakan took it a step further, adapting the platform to create stunning animations. One of his notable projects includes producing content for leading global brands such as Sennheiser and LG Electronics. This achievement led to a feature on HDR Light Studio’s official website, proving that his approach adds something fresh to 3D product animation.
This ability to innovate within the constraints of existing tools reflects Hakan’s adaptability and drive to push boundaries in motion design. For companies looking to grab attention with sleek, high-end visuals, Hakan’s technical creativity offers a clear advantage.
Two certifications, endless possibilities
What ties Hakan’s achievements together is his deep understanding of the tools that define motion design. By mastering both Cinema 4D and After Effects, he can take on projects that others might split between two specialists. This expertise has made him a go-to designer for both entertainment and advertising.
His motion graphics for major German shows like Big Brother Germany show he can handle large-scale TV production, while his work with HDR Light Studio proves he’s just as comfortable in the high-stakes world of product animation. Decision-makers in Los Angeles, where streaming giants like Netflix and Disney thrive, need creatives who can deliver polished, effective visuals. Hakan’s track record suggests he’s ready to step into that space.
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