Animations improve perceived quality.
Common patterns:
- Fade in backdrop
- Scale up modal content
- Slide in from direction
CSS approach:
.modal-enter { opacity: 0; transform: scale(0.95); }
.modal-enter-active { opacity: 1; transform: scale(1); transition: all 200ms; }
.modal-exit { opacity: 1; }
.modal-exit-active { opacity: 0; transition: opacity 150ms; }
Exit animation challenge: Don't unmount until animation completes.
Reduced motion: Respect prefers-reduced-motion. Disable or simplify animations.