This mini-module introduces the fundamentals of motion graphics and compositing using Adobe After Effects. Students will learn how to animate visual elements over time, combine layers, and apply basic effects to create short, dynamic sequences.
❗ Attendance and engagement are part of the rubric.
You are expected to work actively during class time and participate in all in-class activities.
Complete the following in order. Ask the professor or TAs for support or feedback.
Adobe After Effects (AE) is an industry-standard software for motion graphics, compositing, and visual effects.
Follow the intro tutorial and complete a 30s keyframe animation adjusting position, scale, opacity, and 2–3 effect properties. You must use 3-5 video clips/images.
AE Project File: Lastname_Firstname_AEintro.aep
Final Video File: Lastname_Firstname_AEintro.mp4
Lastname_Firstname_AE00_ProjectFiles
Save your After Effects project files here.
01_Media
Add 3–5 video clips/images (from your own projects or downloaded from Pexels Videos).
02_ExportsFor the second part of this submission, choose one of the following options. Follow the corresponding tutorial and create your own version applying the techniques learned.
Save your files in the same folder structure as Part 1.
If you use new video clips or images, add them to your footage folder.
If you create additional Adobe project files, add them to your project files folder.
AE Project File: Lastname_Firstname_AEPathway.aep
Final Video File: Lastname_Firstname_AEPathway.mp4
Click the arrows below to open each tutorial.
1. Rotoscoping & Masking
Create a 15–20 second video using both rotoscoping and masking. Use rotoscoping to remove the background from a person, and masking to add a new element into your scene.
2. Keyframing + Green Screen Compositing
For this option, you must record a 15-20s subject over green screen then keyed-out subject over layered backgrounds using keyframe animation.
Book the Media Production Room at the Lyons New Media Centre at Mills Library or book the Green Screen available at the Media Art equipment booking.
3. Illustrator → After Effects Workflow (Object or Character Animation)
For this option, you must create a simple graphic or character in Adobe Illustrator, then import it into After Effects to create a short 15–20s animation.
4. Photoshop → After Effects Workflow Using 3D Cameras
For this option, you must create a simple multi-layered (4–6 layers) scene in Adobe Photoshop, then import it into After Effects to create a short 15–20s animation moving through these layers.
5. Expressions for Randomized & Generative Animation
For this option, you must create a 20–30s animation using 2–4 expressions across 5–8 layers/objects to add ramdomness or glitch-based behaviours.
Note: Check all tutorials from the watch list embedded in the video player (click the three-line icon at the top to access it).
6. Premiere → After Effects Workflow (Dynamic Link for Motion Graphics)
For this option, use your Premire Pro Sequence (from the 1-minute film) to add effects, animation, and/or masks/rotoscope to a specific part using Dynamic Links.
You must combine techniques from the other tutorials listed here or find other tutorial(s) that matches what you want to create in After Effects.
+2 extra points will be given to students who choose this option.
Organization & Submission: if you choose this option, keep all Part 2 files organized within your 1-minute project folder and upload only the final rendered video. The instructor will check and grade file organization in person during Week 12.
| Item | Required Filename |
|---|---|
| Sound Design Production Package (ZIP) | Lastname_Firstname_AE.zip |
⚠️ Follow the submission protocols carefully.
⚠️ Incorrect submissions will result in a one point deduction❗.
Follow the required folder structure (inside ZIP):
00_ProjectFilesLastname_Firstname_AEIntro.aepLastname_Firstname_AEPathway.aep01_Media02_ExportsLastname_Firstname_AEintro.mp4Lastname_Firstname_AEPathway.mp4Credits: Jessica A. Rodríguez
AI Disclosure:
AI Disclosure: ChatGPT was used for editing and clarity only. No original course content was generated using AI.