Water System Explainer Animations

How do you present a concept as complex and overlooked as underground aquifers or wastewater treatment systems — all while keeping the information as accurate and engaging as possible?

That was the challenge we tackled while collaborating with Eastern Shore Land Conservancy (ESLC) on their water systems explainer series. Their mission centers on protecting the Chesapeake region’s land and water supply. In the Chesapeake watershed communities, many people may not realize that conserving open spaces like farmlands, forests, and marshlands directly impacts the quality of the water flowing through our taps. While working with ESLC to visualize that connection, we helped them achieve their goal of informing the public on ways overdevelopment can threaten local communities’ water supply.

At Early Light Media, we believe in turning complexity into clarity.

• • Animation as the solution – We recommended custom animation as the most effective way to simplify and visualize water processes while keeping the complex information engaging and easy to follow.
  • One expansive illustration – Instead of creating numerous disconnected background scenes, we strategized to optimize our timeline resources by designing one large, vibrant landscape illustration and used camera movement to “travel” across it. This allowed us to show different parts of the water cycle seamlessly, while staying within scope of the project’s needs.
  • Expert collaboration – Accuracy mattered just as much as beauty. We worked alongside local geological and environmental experts, who reviewed our designs and provided feedback to ensure technical precision in representing water systems.
  • Evoking the Chesapeake – To make the visuals feel rooted in the beloved natural landmarks and ecological features of the Chesapeake watershed, we included recognizable features in the environment design, such as native foliage, wildlife, and even sediment textures unique to the bay region.

The result was a set of animated explainer videos that show:

• • Where our water comes from – underground aquifers.
  • Where it goes after use – wastewater treatment systems.

ESLC is currently using the videos and visual assets from this series across social platforms to further their mission. The content has given them an accessible way to connect conservation policy with everyday life for people whose communities rely on a healthy water system in the Chesapeake region.

• • Balancing accuracy with simplicity – consulting experts while designing for a general audience.
  • Creative efficiency – leveraging a single, detailed illustration with dynamic camera moves to deliver scope within budget.
  • Regional authenticity – grounding the story in iconic Chesapeake imagery to connect more intimately with viewers and the communities they are familiar with.

ESLC was pleased with the final outcome and are already discussing a follow-up project: another short explainer piece to further spread awareness of conservation efforts. This relationship positions us to help them with larger-scale educational campaigns about conservation across Maryland’s Eastern Shore.