After Effects
Courses

Overview of After Effects Interface:

• Understanding workspace, panels, and tools

• Customizing the workspace for efficiency

• Navigating the Timeline and Composition panels

Basic Tools & Shortcuts:

• Introduction to key tools (Selection, Pen, Text, Shape, etc.)

• Useful keyboard shortcuts for better workflow

Creating and Managing Compositions:

• Setting up a new composition (resolution, frame rate, and duration)

• Organizing compositions in the Project panel

Creating Shapes & Text Layers:

• Working with vector shapes, lines, and text elements

• Animating text and graphics with keyframes

Fundamentals of Animation:

• Understanding keyframes, easing, and motion paths

• Creating smooth animations and transitions

Understanding the Timeline:

• Layer management and the importance of layer stacking

• Working with markers and trimming layers

Using the Graph Editor:

• Understanding speed graphs for timing and acceleration control

• Fine-tuning animations for smoother motion

Motion Tracking & Stabilization:

• Introduction to point tracking and 2D motion tracking

• Stabilizing shaky footage using the Warp Stabilizer

Character Animation:

• Introduction to animating characters or objects using puppets or shape layers

Basic Compositing Techniques:

• Layering multiple elements (videos, images, graphics)

• Using blending modes, opacity, and masking

Advanced Masking Techniques:

• Creating detailed masks for specific effects (e.g., rotoscoping)

• Using feathering, path animation, and matte techniques

Keying & Green Screen Effects:

• Techniques for removing backgrounds (e.g., Chroma Key)

• Fine-tuning edges for realistic compositing

Working with Adjustment Layers:

• Using adjustment layers for global effects like color correction or blur

Kinetic Typography:

• Animating text to create dynamic motion

• Synchronizing text animation with audio or video

Text Animators:

• Using built-in text animators for advanced typography effects

• Customizing text presets and expressions for complex motion

• • Understanding 3D space and creating 3D objects and layers

  • Using cameras and lights for depth and perspective

• 3D Compositing:

  • Working with multiple 3D layers to create complex scenes

  • Using 3D camera moves for dynamic animations

• Camera & Light Effects:

  • Animating cameras and lights to create cinematic effects

• • • Creating particles for smoke, fire, snow, etc.

    • Customizing particle behavior for specific effects

  • Advanced Visual Effects:

    • Creating realistic explosions, fire, and lightning

    • Integrating 3D elements with live-action footage

  • Motion Graphics in Video Editing:

    • Using After Effects for lower thirds, titles, and transitions

    • Creating animated logos and intros for videos

• • • • Using color correction tools for enhancing video quality

      • Applying color grading techniques for a professional look

    • Effects & Adjustment Layers for Final Look:

      • Using final adjustments to polish the video (vignette, sharpening, etc.)

    • Exporting & Rendering:

      • Choosing the correct render settings for different platforms (e.g., YouTube, social media, HD)

      • Optimizing render settings for quality and speed

      • Exporting animations using Adobe Media Encoder

Syncing Audio with Animation:

• Integrating sound effects and music with your animation

• Using the Audio Spectrum and Audio Waveform effects

Basic Sound Design in After Effects:

• Editing and adjusting audio levels within After Effects

• Using keyframes to sync sound effects with motion graphics

• • Work on a comprehensive project incorporating all learned techniques (e.g., creating a promotional video, title sequence, or short animation).

  • Focus on applying advanced techniques like motion tracking, visual effects, and 3D layers.

• Feedback & Review:

  • Present your project to peers and instructors for constructive feedback.

  • Make necessary adjustments to improve and polish your final work.