How to Approach SVG Animations in CSS

|TAYYABA MUNAWWAR

Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) offer a powerful way to create detailed and scalable graphics on the web. When combined with CSS animations, SVGs can come alive with dynamic motion and interactivity. In this guide, we'll explore how to approach SVG animations using CSS, covering basic techniques and providing practical examples to get you started.




Understanding SVG and CSS Animation

SVGs are XML-based vector images that can be manipulated and animated using CSS and JavaScript. CSS animations provide a straightforward way to animate SVG elements without the need for complex JavaScript libraries. Here’s how you can start animating SVGs using CSS:


Basic Setup

1. Include SVG in HTML:
First, include your SVG in the HTML file using the `<svg>` element or by embedding it as an `<img>` or `<object>` tag. Here’s an example of embedding an SVG directly in HTML:

<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 100 100">
<circle cx="50" cy="50" r="40" fill="blue" />
</svg>

1. Apply CSS for Animation:
Use CSS to style and animate the SVG elements. CSS animations are defined using `@keyframes` and applied to SVG elements using standard CSS selectors.
Example: Animated SVG Circle

Let’s create a simple example of animating an SVG circle using CSS. We’ll make the circle grow and change color

HTML Code:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang="en">
<head>
<meta charset="UTF-8">
<meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
<title>SVG Animation Example</title>
<link rel="stylesheet" href="styles.css">
</head>
<body>
<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 100 100">
<circle id="animated-circle" cx="50" cy="50" r="10" fill="blue" />
</svg>
</body>
</html>

CSS:
@keyframes growAndColorChange {
0% {
r: 10;
fill: blue;
}
50% {
r: 30;
fill: green;
}
100% {
r: 10;
fill: blue;
}
}
#animated-circle {
animation: growAndColorChange 3s ease-in-out infinite;
}


Explanation:

HTML:
The SVG contains a `<circle>` element with an initial radius (`r`) of 10 units and a blue fill color.

CSS:

  1. `@keyframes growAndColorChange`: Defines keyframes for the animation. At 0% (start), the circle has a radius of 10 units and a blue fill. At 50% (middle), the radius grows to 30 units and changes color to green. At 100% (end), it returns to its original size and color.
  2. `#animated-circle`: Applies the `growAndColorChange` animation to the `` element, making it grow and change color over a 3-second duration, with an ease-in-out timing function, and repeats infinitely.


Conclusion

Animating SVGs with CSS opens up a world of creative possibilities for web designers and developers. By combining the power of SVG for scalable graphics with CSS animations for dynamic effects, you can create engaging and interactive experiences on the web. Experiment with different properties and timing functions to achieve the desired effects and bring your SVGs to life!


M
Chief Architect, Founder, and CEO - a Microsoft recognized Power Platform solution architect.

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