A lower third usually answers two questions: who is speaking, and why does that person appear in this film? It does not need to contain a full biography or several logos. Once its purpose is clear, deciding on size, position and duration becomes easier.
Select the information
Confirm the correct name and role before designing anything. Have the spelling and preferred role description checked. If someone has several responsibilities, choose the one relevant to this film. A lengthy formal title can appear in accompanying information if it would make the on-screen version difficult to read.
Create a clear hierarchy. The name can carry more weight than the role without requiring unrelated type styles. Test unusually long names and descriptions early. A template that only works for the shortest name will later produce inconsistent sizing or awkward line breaks.
Let the image determine placement
Find a relatively calm area that does not cover gestures, products or existing text. The term lower third does not mean every title must occupy exactly the same lower position. What matters is that it remains understandable within the shot and the intended delivery format.
Review the title alongside captions. Two independently designed elements can compete for the same space. Controls in the eventual player may also matter. Avoid pushing text tightly against the edge, and test a real preview within the intended viewing context rather than relying on an empty design canvas.
Keep movement and duration restrained
A short entrance animation can draw attention to the name, but should not delay reading. Count the useful reading duration from the point when the full text is visible and stationary. A long animated build is rarely necessary for a brief role description.
Show the scene to someone who does not already know the name. Can they read both lines without pausing? If not, extend the still portion or shorten the role description. Increasing type size only helps while the graphic still fits sensibly within the composition.
Inspect the finished file on smaller displays and against changing backgrounds. Keep approved wording separate from the graphic design so later language versions do not accidentally retain outdated names or roles. A shorter repeat title may be enough later in the same film, provided the person's identity remains clear to the viewer.