After Effects CS4: Introduction

DAY ONE

Starting a project

• The Composition windows
  
• Using the Project window
  
• Working with layers over time
  
• Animating layers independently
  
• Designing backgrounds from scratch
  
• Using Bezier motion paths
  
• Applying effects to filters
  

Importing footage

• Importing layers from Photoshop
  
• Using Alpha channels
  
• Looping video footage
  
• Drafting a project
  
• Interpreting footage
  

Working with layers

• Different layer masking techniques
  
• Creating animated Bezier mattes
  
• Exposing elements of your last project
  
• Trimming and moving layers
  
• Changing playback speed
  
• Changing playback direction
  
• Working with Shape layers
  
• Using Brainstorm to experiment and refine designs
  

Working with text

• Customising text presets
  
• Animating text
  
• Antialiased text
  
• Using text layers
  

Working with key frames

• Animating graphic elements
  
• Precisely controlling animations
  
• Synchronising actions
  

Parent/child relationships

• Working with the z-axis
  
• Trimming layers
  

Introduction to using mattes

• Using colour keys
  
• Making layers react interactively
  
• Working with multiple effects
  
• Using paths in After Effects
  
• Using adjustment layers
  
• Using the Keylight keyer
  

DAY TWO

Compiling your project

• Optimising project settings
  
• Rendering the composition
  

Filters and transitions

• An in-depth look at After Effects filters including:
  
  • Levels
    
  • Creating drop shadows
    
  • Perspective filters
    
• Using texturise
  
• Setting mattes
  
• Bevelling the Alpha channel
  
• Bevelling edges of rectangular objects
  
• An in-depth look at transitions
  
• Using the Comp window
  
• Creating text effects
  
• Animating text
  

More about key frames

• Further principles of key framing
  
• Copying and pasting key frames
  
• Key frame assistants
  
• Time reverse key framing
  
• Simultaneously editing multiple key frames
  

Finalising your project

• Using the pen tool to edit the value graph
  
• Issues involved in interpolation methods
  
• Precise control over velocity
  
• Controlling speed of change
  
• Nesting complex compositions
  
• Mixing interpolation methods
  

Linear and Bezier interpolation

• Previewing in wire frame
  
• Using audio effects
  
• Importing a project from Adobe Premiere
  

Final rendering

• Creating custom rendering templates
  
• Setting field rendering order
  
• Creating PDF video files
  

Saving your work for film, video, multimedia, mobile devices and the web

• Using Device Central