After Effects Guru: Using Generator Effects

1h 53mBeginner2016-10-20

Authors

Ian Robinson

Motion Graphics Designer and Educator

Course details

Generator effects can be used to solve many problems when creating motion graphics and VFX projects—and to add unique creative twists you can't replicate with other After Effects tools. In this course, author Ian Robinson shows how to use generator effects to attach multiple layers, create animated glints and highlights, achieve better blended composites, and more. Follow along as he introduces a variety of next-level mograph techniques for creating interesting backgrounds, repeating graphic elements, and applying 2D and 3D type treatments, and walks through a complete map-based infographic generated with effects like Grid, Stroke, Vegas, Write-on, and Radio Waves.

Learning objectives
Generating graphic backgrounds
Creating graphic elements such as repeating shapes and gradients
Creating a map animation
Animating paths and type
Adding highlights to 2D and 3D text
Blending composites

Skills covered

Motion GraphicsAfter EffectsRenderingMotion Graphics and VFXVisualization and Real-TimeLimited SeriesAdobeAECProduct and ManufacturingAnimation and Illustration

Concepts

0. Introduction

01 - Welcome
02 - What you should know before watching this course
03 - Using the exercise files

1. Generating Graphic Backgrounds

04 - Creating loopable abstract backgrounds with Cell Pattern
05 - Generating animated stripes
06 - Creating animated circular graphics
07 - Colorizing background elements

2. Creating Graphic Elements

08 - Tying elements together with the Beam effect
09 - Animating repeating shapes with CC Threads
10 - Electrifying graphics with Advanced Lightning
11 - Refining Advanced Lightning animations
12 - Smoothing gradients to remove banding

3. Project - Map Animation

13 - Stylizing maps with gradients
14 - Animating graticules with Grid
15 - Path animations with Stroke & Vegas
16 - Animating type with Write-on
17 - Highlighting areas with Radio Waves

4. Adding Style to Graphics

18 - Adding highlights to 2D text
19 - Creating highlights on 3D text
20 - Blending composites with Eyedropper Fill
21 - Tasteful depth with CC Light Sweep & Lens Flare

Conclusion

22 - Goodbye