After Effects Introduction


In order to develop my understanding of Adobe Programmes and video editing, I've been introduced to After Effects, a more elaborate version of Premier Pro. The programme provides more intricate effect options and thorough modification. 


The Basics


The interface for After Effects is very similar to premier pro. The timeline is easier to navigate.




Exporting in ‘Adobe media encoder’ opens up more setting opportunities, more flexible with file formats. For example, Encoder gives you the choice to create a file specifically for Instagram.



Using Masks




By exporting an ‘Adobe Illustrate’ file into various layers enables those layers to be individually adjusted in after effects.


Objects can follow mask paths drawn with the pen tool. Use the pen tool to create a line/mask on the background layer. This mask can be copied and pasted onto a car layer (in the position drop box). Once the car’s rotation has been adjusted, the car will follow the mask path, and along the road.


Projects can also be exported in After Effects’ render que, although ‘media encoder’ is more comprehensive.



Dynamic Links and Tracking

Dynamic links create a connection between After Effects and Premier Pro Projects. This enables work to be transferred between the two. In this example, I wanted my Premier Pro project transferred into After Effects to take advantage of the more advanced motion tracking controls. 


After effects has a ‘motion tracker’ workspace, which makes this effect easier to produce. If we wanted to motion track in Premier Pro, we would have to manually move the object on each frame. After effects makes motion tracking less time consuming, as the tracking is automatic.


It’s best to parent tracking objects to ‘Null’s, instead of a layer with media, as this prevents interference. 


Using Parallax



Parallax can help create a sense of depth. By changing the position and scale of separate layers, viewers feel as though each layer is a different distance away from our viewpoint.



Parallax is easier to achieve on ‘cartoon’ imagery, but more effective on photographs.



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