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Creativity Unleashed

Learn motion graphics and animation with After Effects.

Design like a pro.

Visual and motion effects are constantly used all around us. From commercials to your favorite superhero movie, those effects are applied to increase the intensity of the work and to make them grab just anyone's attention. With one of Adobe's best programs, you can create those cool motion graphics. But it's not just the cool effects, with After Effects you can create animations, GIFs, Special Effects, Designs, 3D objects and so much more.

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Learn motion graphics and animation with After Effects.

Design like a pro.

Visual and motion effects are constantly used all around us. From commercials to your favorite superhero movie, those effects are applied to increase the intensity of the work and to make them grab just anyone's attention. With one of Adobe's best programs, you can create those cool motion graphics. But it's not just the cool effects, with After Effects you can create animations, GIFs, Special Effects, Designs, 3D objects and so much more.

In this course, you're not only going to learn how to use After Effects as a program, but you will learn how to create those cool effects with step-by-step tutorials. We will first give you an insight as to how After Effects functions and will then get into the tutorials that you can follow to create your own awesome work. By the end of this course, you will know how to create your own animations and GIFS, or how to add special effects to your videos and designs.

Our instructors have years of experience not only in video editing, but also in teaching, and the expertly-crafted syllabus is designed to be easy to follow and thorough. We’ve even included plenty of examples designed and modelled on-screen for you to study. That’s why this is the only After Effects course you’ll ever need to create awesome videos and design them like a pro.

Start designing today.

After taking this course you’ll be able to:

  • Use After Effects professionally

  • Do video edits, special effects, animations and motion graphics

  • Use the elements and theories in After Effects to master your art

  • Create your own video designs in After Effects

  • Work with 3D objects and VFX

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to use adobe after effects and its elements
  • The interface and tools of after effects
  • The principles of video editing
  • How to make still image animations
  • How to do and use motion graphics
  • How to create logo, app ui, and hud animations
  • How to apply visual effects
  • How to do character animations
  • How to make different character animation movements
  • How to make gifs
  • How to create 3d objects
  • How to work with advanced vfx

Syllabus

How it works
Common After Effects Terms
Interface and Workspace
After Effects Tools
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Covers a wide range of After Effects tools, from basic shapes and text to more advanced features like the Roto Brush and Puppet Pin tool
Explores the creation of diverse animations, including logo animations, UI animations, HUD animations, and character animations, which are useful for building a professional portfolio
Includes sections on video editing, green screens, overlays, and color correction, which are essential skills for creating polished and professional-looking videos
Features step-by-step tutorials for creating special effects, motion graphics, and 3D objects, which allows learners to immediately apply what they learn
Teaches the use of plugins like Duik Bassel for character animation, which can streamline the animation process and enhance the quality of animations
Requires access to Adobe After Effects, which may involve a subscription fee, and learners should consider this cost before enrolling

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive after effects training, beginner to pro

According to students, this course offers a thorough and comprehensive introduction to Adobe After Effects, guiding learners from basic concepts to more advanced techniques. Many highlight the clear explanations and step-by-step tutorials that make complex tools and processes understandable. The practical projects and examples are frequently praised as being particularly helpful for applying learned skills. While the course aims for 'Beginner to Expert', some learners noted that certain advanced topics might require additional practice or external resources, suggesting it provides a strong foundation for expertise rather than reaching mastery within the course alone. Overall, it is seen as a highly valuable resource for anyone looking to seriously learn motion graphics and visual effects with After Effects.
Provides a solid starting point for novices.
"As someone completely new to After Effects, this course was the perfect starting point."
"It takes you step-by-step from knowing nothing to being able to create complex animations."
"I found the initial sections on the interface and basic tools incredibly helpful."
"It's designed well for absolute beginners who need a strong foundation."
Covers a wide range of After Effects features.
"It really is a 'megacourse', covering so many aspects of After Effects from scratch."
"From basic tools to character rigging and 3D, this course touches on everything I needed."
"The syllabus is very extensive and covers a huge amount of material."
"I feel like I got a really good overview of the entire software and its capabilities."
Hands-on projects reinforce learning effectively.
"The projects are amazing! It's great to apply what you learn immediately to create something cool."
"Learning by doing with these practical examples is the best part of the course."
"I loved the variety of projects, from character animation to VFX, it covered so much."
"Applying the concepts in these projects really helped solidify my understanding."
Concepts are explained simply and clearly.
"The instructor does a fantastic job explaining complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand."
"Everything is broken down into manageable steps, making it really easy to follow along even as a beginner."
"I really appreciated how clear and concise the explanations were throughout the lessons."
"The explanations were great, I could really grasp the 'why' behind the techniques."
Some specific examples or interfaces may be older.
"A few specific tools or interface layouts shown seemed slightly outdated compared to the very latest AE version, though concepts are still valid."
"While the core principles are timeless, some steps using older versions of plugins or features required minor adjustments on my end."
"I noticed one or two examples used workflows that have since been streamlined in newer AE updates."
"It would be great if the course received updates for the very latest AE features."
May lack depth or move quickly for advanced learners.
"While it covers many topics, some advanced areas felt a bit rushed or not covered in enough detail for true expertise."
"As someone with some prior AE knowledge, I found parts of the course too basic, but the advanced sections could have gone deeper."
"I wish some of the more complex VFX or 3D topics had more dedicated time and examples."
"It's 'Beginner to Expert' in scope, but maybe 'Beginner to Solid Intermediate' in depth for some areas."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Complete Adobe After Effects Megacourse: Beginner to Expert with these activities:
Review Keyframing Techniques
Practice keyframing fundamentals to ensure a solid understanding of animation principles before diving into complex After Effects projects.
Browse courses on Keyframing
Show steps
  • Watch tutorials on basic keyframing principles.
  • Create simple animations using position, scale, and rotation.
  • Experiment with different easing methods for smoother animations.
Study 'Adobe After Effects Classroom in a Book'
Enhance your practical skills by working through project-based tutorials that cover various aspects of After Effects.
Show steps
  • Select a project from the book that aligns with your interests.
  • Follow the instructions carefully and complete the project.
  • Experiment with different settings and techniques to personalize the project.
Read 'Creating Motion Graphics with After Effects'
Deepen your understanding of After Effects by studying a comprehensive guide that covers a wide range of techniques and workflows.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters relevant to the current course modules.
  • Try out the examples and exercises provided in the book.
  • Take notes on key concepts and techniques.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Animate a Logo
Apply your After Effects skills by creating a logo animation, reinforcing your understanding of keyframing, effects, and composition.
Show steps
  • Find a logo to animate or create your own.
  • Import the logo into After Effects and break it down into layers.
  • Animate the logo using various techniques learned in the course.
  • Add visual effects and refine the animation.
  • Export the final animation in a suitable format.
Practice Animation Transitions
Master different transition techniques in After Effects to create seamless and visually appealing animations.
Show steps
  • Choose a few different types of transitions to practice.
  • Create simple compositions with basic shapes or text.
  • Apply different transition effects and adjust their settings.
  • Experiment with easing and timing to refine the transitions.
Create a Short Motion Graphics Video
Solidify your knowledge by creating a short motion graphics video, showcasing your ability to combine animation, effects, and design principles.
Show steps
  • Brainstorm ideas for a short motion graphics video.
  • Create a storyboard outlining the video's key scenes.
  • Design and animate the elements in After Effects.
  • Add music and sound effects to enhance the video.
  • Export the final video and share it online.
Build a Showreel
Showcase your best After Effects work by creating a professional showreel, demonstrating your skills and creativity to potential clients or employers.
Show steps
  • Select your best After Effects projects to include in the showreel.
  • Edit the projects together into a cohesive and visually appealing sequence.
  • Add music and sound effects to enhance the showreel.
  • Create a title sequence and end credits.
  • Export the showreel in a high-quality format and share it online.

Career center

Learners who complete Complete Adobe After Effects Megacourse: Beginner to Expert will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Motion Graphics Designer
A Motion Graphics Designer brings creative concepts to life through animation and visual effects. This role often involves creating engaging content for various platforms, from television commercials to social media campaigns. Motion Graphics Designers are tasked with developing storyboards, animating text and graphics, and integrating visual elements seamlessly. This course helps develop the skills to create stunning animations, GIFs, special effects, and 3D objects. By understanding the interface, tools, and principles of video editing and animation detailed in this course, you can effectively produce high-quality motion graphics and visual content. The course also covers logo, APP UI, and HUD animations, which are crucial for creating unique and captivating designs.
Video Editor
Video Editors are responsible for assembling raw footage into a cohesive and visually appealing final product. They work with various types of content, including films, television shows, commercials, and online videos. This involves cutting and arranging clips, adding transitions and special effects, and ensuring the final product meets the desired specifications. With this course, you explore video editing techniques, transitions, enhancing elements, and color correction. The course also covers practical aspects like fixing issues and exporting videos, essential skills for any successful video editor. The knowledge of After Effects tools and techniques gained in this course helps you stand out by creating compelling and professional-quality edits.
Animator
Animators create moving images using various techniques, including computer animation, stop-motion, and traditional hand-drawn animation. They work in diverse industries, such as film, television, video games, and advertising. Animators develop characters, create storyboards, and bring their creations to life through movement and visual effects. This course can help you learn how to create your own animations and GIFs, and how to do character animations. The course also takes you through the different character animation movements. By mastering the tools and techniques taught, you can create engaging and dynamic animations that capture the audience's attention.
Visual Effects Artist
A Visual Effects Artist, or VFX Artist, enhances films, television shows, and other media with realistic and imaginative effects. They use software to create simulations, composites, and animations. VFX Artists collaborate with directors and other creative professionals to integrate effects into live-action footage seamlessly. This course provides the skills to apply visual effects, work with advanced VFX, and create 3D objects. The course’s comprehensive coverage of VFX techniques, including practical examples, will help you create stunning visual effects that elevate the quality of any project. By understanding the principles of VFX and gaining hands-on experience with After Effects, you can excel in this exciting and dynamic field.
Digital Compositor
Digital Compositors combine various visual elements to create seamless and believable scenes. They often work on films, television shows, and commercials, integrating computer-generated imagery (CGI) with live-action footage. Compositors use specialized software to adjust colors, add effects, and ensure that all elements blend harmoniously. This course may be useful in helping you to master the art of enhancing elements, working with green screens, and creating overlays. The course’s discussion of visual effects and motion graphics will help enhance your ability to integrate different visual components effectively.
Multimedia Artist
Multimedia Artists create engaging content using a combination of visual, audio, and interactive elements. They work on a variety of projects, including websites, video games, and marketing campaigns. Their responsibilities include designing graphics, animating images, and producing videos. This course directly supports these tasks by providing comprehensive training in Adobe After Effects. You learn to create animations, GIFs, and special effects, all essential tools for a Multimedia Artist. The course covers how to create logo, app user interface, and heads up display animations, broadening your skill set and making you a more versatile multimedia creator.
Content Creator
Content Creators develop engaging and informative content for various online platforms. These platforms include social media, websites, and blogs. They produce videos, graphics, and written materials that attract and retain an audience. Content Creators need a strong understanding of visual communication and storytelling. This course may give you the skills to create compelling video content and motion graphics. The course teaches you how to use After Effects to produce high-quality visual content. By learning to create animations, add special effects, and edit videos, you can significantly enhance the impact of your content and engage your audience more effectively.
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designers create visual concepts that communicate ideas and messages. They design logos, websites, marketing materials, and other visual assets. A Graphic Designer needs a strong understanding of design principles and proficiency in design software. This course helps you to enhance your skills in creating dynamic and visually appealing graphics. You learn how to use After Effects to create motion graphics, animations, and special effects. These are skills that can elevate your designs and make them stand out in a competitive market. The course covers how to create logo animations, app user interface animations, and heads up display animations, expanding your creative toolkit.
Web Designer
Web Designers plan, create, and code internet sites and web pages, many of which combine text with sounds, pictures, graphics and video clips. A good course helps you to master animation basics, how to make still image animations, and how to use motion graphics. The course also covers logo, app user interface, and heads up display animations, which are crucial for creating unique and captivating designs.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designers create engaging and effective learning experiences. They develop course materials, design interactive activities, and assess learning outcomes. They often work in educational institutions, corporate training departments, and online learning platforms. This course may be useful in helping you incorporate animation and motion graphics into your instructional materials. The course can help you create visually appealing and engaging content that enhances the learning experience. By mastering video editing, special effects, and animation techniques, you can create dynamic and effective instructional content that meets the needs of diverse learners.
Game Designer
Game Designers conceptualize and develop the rules, characters, and storylines of video games. They work with artists, programmers, and other developers to bring their ideas to life. Game Designers need a strong understanding of game mechanics, storytelling, and user experience. This course may be useful in helping you to create captivating visual effects and animations for video games. The course can help you create 3D objects, character animations, and special effects that enhance the game’s visual appeal. By mastering After Effects, you can contribute to the creation of immersive and engaging gaming experiences.
Marketing Specialist
Marketing Specialists develop and implement marketing strategies to promote products or services. They conduct market research, analyze trends, and create marketing campaigns. They may work for corporations, non-profit organizations, or marketing agencies. This course may be useful in helping you create visually compelling marketing materials. The course teaches you how to produce high-quality videos, animations, and motion graphics that capture the audience’s attention. By mastering After Effects, you can create dynamic and engaging marketing campaigns that drive brand awareness and sales.
Project Manager
Project Managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within scope. Project Managers work in a variety of industries, including construction, technology, and healthcare. A Project Manager with a strong understanding of video editing and motion graphics can better coordinate creative projects. By understanding the principles of video editing and animation, you can effectively manage teams and resources to deliver high-quality visual content.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create technical documentation, such as user manuals, help guides, and training materials. They work in a variety of industries, including software development, engineering, and manufacturing. While this role is primarily focused on writing, understanding visual communication can be beneficial. If you are a technical writer, this course may be useful for you to create supplementary visual aids or tutorials. The course helps you communicate complex information more effectively through videos, animations, and motion graphics.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Managers oversee a company's online presence on various social media platforms. This involves creating content, engaging with followers, and analyzing social media trends. To succeed as a Social Media Manager, it is helpful to understand graphic design. This course would be valuable as it may help you create engaging video content and motion graphics for social media. This course provides the skills to produce visually appealing content that captures the audience's attention and drives engagement.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Complete Adobe After Effects Megacourse: Beginner to Expert.
Focuses on motion graphics techniques in After Effects, covering a wide range of topics such as animation, compositing, and visual effects. It valuable resource for those who want to create professional-quality motion graphics. This book expands on the course material by providing more in-depth explanations and advanced techniques.
Provides a project-based approach to learning After Effects, guiding you through real-world scenarios and practical exercises. It's a great resource for hands-on learning and building a portfolio. This book is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions. It provides a structured learning path and step-by-step instructions.

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