52 Watt Studios Case Study

NIV Translation Brand Video

Client: Zondervan

Project Type:
Brand Identity/Marketing Video

Project Highlights:
• 60 second full length video
• 15 and 30 second versions
• Multiple format delivery (1:1, 9:16, 16:9)
• Creative development
• Illustration and design
• Motion graphics

Full Length Finished NIV Brand Video

Overview:
When Zondervan’s Bible marketing team approached us to help unveil the refreshed branding for the New International Version (NIV)—their most widely read and best-loved Bible translation—we were honored to bring their vision to life.

As one of the most trusted Bible translations in the world, the NIV has impacted millions of readers across generations. This brand video needed to celebrate that legacy while casting a compelling vision for the future: a translation that is faithful, clear, and accessible for today’s world.

The Vision:
The Zondervan team had recently refined the NIV’s brand identity, leaning into a clean, modern aesthetic that reflects the translation’s commitment to clarity and design integrity. Our task was to create a visual narrative that honored the NIV’s theological heritage while engaging a new generation of readers.

The goal wasn’t just to inform—but to inspire. We set out to craft a piece that would speak to both longtime Bible readers and newcomers, visually conveying the accessibility, beauty, and timelessness of Scripture in the NIV translation.

Our Approach:
To bring this vision to life, we developed a creative strategy that fused illustration, motion design, typography, and music into one seamless experience. Every element was carefully considered to align with the brand’s voice and tone.

  • Creative Concepting: We brainstormed visual metaphors and transitions to represent themes like clarity, journey, accessibility, and global reach.

  • Design & Animation: We integrated hand-drawn illustrations with dynamic motion graphics, layering these with text excerpts to mirror the elegance and approachability of the translation itself.

  • Sound Design & Music: The custom soundtrack was chosen to build warmth and inspiration, while subtle sound design cues guided the viewer through each visual movement.

  • Collaboration: Throughout the process, we worked closely with the Zondervan team, refining the message and visuals to ensure every frame aligned with the updated brand guidelines.

Results:
The finished pieces served as a powerful centerpiece for the NIV’s brand refresh campaign—with the potential to be used across social media, digital platforms, retailer channels, and at industry events. More than a marketing asset, the videos became a celebration of Scripture’s enduring relevance, positioning the NIV as both trustworthy and timely.

Whether used to introduce the NIV to first-time readers or to remind longtime believers of its impact, the brand videos effectively communicated what the translation stands for: clarity, faithfulness, and accessibility for everyone.