After Effects, VFX Day 2

Objectives

  • Learn how to motion track
  • Learn how to apply masks, and how to keyframe them.
  • Learn about effects
  • Learn to use adjustment layers

Link to files: https://files.learnsoftware.org/after-effects-vfx/

Outline

  • Intro
  • Motion Tracking
    • Create null object
      • What it is
      • Why we get it
    • Show how to track
      • Emphasize need for contrast
      • Show how to edit the path
      • Try to place nodes so that they fail, then explain why they did, and find a better place.
    • Apply to Null object
    • Parent text layer to null object
  • Masks
    • Explain what masks are. They do not erase, they hide
    • Show how to use objects/pen tool to create
      • Point out the different symbols next to the cursor that indicate if you are making a mask or a shape
    • Show how to keyframe the mask to reveal things
    • Show them how to feather.
  • Effects
    • What are effects
    • Apply an effect to the text (consider roughen edges)
    • Show them how to keyframe effect attributes.
  • Adjustment Layer
    • What it is
    • Apply effects
    • Mask adjustment layer
    • Consider using curves to make a vignette.