Week 1:
This week we will create a short video that combines text, still image and video layers. Through this exercise you will learn how to:
- Navigate the workspace on After Effects
- Set up a project and select a video format
- Introduce video to the timeline and split layers
- Change the position and scale of layers
- Introduce basic textUse selections in Photoshop to create a still image composition
- Import this composition into After Effects to create a composite video
Week 2:
This week we will look at basic animation techniques. Through a series of exercises you will learn how to:
- Use Photoshop to great multi-layered elements for animation
- Import these Photoshop elements into After Effects Work with keyframes and interpolation
- Add motion blurDuplicate and pre-compose animated elements
- Create a parallax effect to give the illusion of depth
- Apply blending modes
- Work with the puppet tool to create moving joints for an animated character
Week 3:
This week we will look at arranging 2D layers within 3D virtual space, creating a diorama that will give a sense of spatial depth when navigated with a motion camera. Through a series of exercises you will learn how to:
- Set up a multi-layered diorama in Photoshop
- Import this into After Effects and position the layers within 3D space
- Create an animated camera move through 3D space
- Apply depth of field
Week 4:
This week we will look at working with green-screen compositing to place a live action figure within an animated backdrop. Through a series of exercises you will learn how to:
- Work with the Keylight filter
- Adjust colour balance and tone
- Composite the figure against an animated background
- Introduce shadows and highlights Use the green-screen figure to create a silhouette
Week 5:
This week we will look at applying masks to footage to create cutouts, as well as exploring different applications for effects. Through a series of exercises you will learn how to:
- Work with masks
- Use the Roto-mask tool
- Apply time re-mapping
- Work with ‘Particle Playground’ and similar effects
Week 6:
This week we will look at working with the paint panel to create animated drawings, as well as using motion tracking to attach a text element to a moving point within a video clip. Finally we will cover how to output your final project, adding sound effects and applying a basic edit. Through a series of exercises you will learn how to:
- Work with the paint panel
- Add paths to create a write-on effect
- Apply motion tracking
- Render your project
- Add sound to your video
