We now need to apply our tracked data from our layers to a Null Object. Modifying everything else is the same as before. To do this, click Edit Target > select the Solid Layer > hit OK and then Apply. For Motion Track we’ll need to create a new solid layer, which will receive our tracked information. The only real difference in choosing Motion Track is that the information won’t be applied to the same layer of your footage. To fix this, scale your footage layer up to extend past the edges of your composition or you can use a reflect effect if the footage is not too shaky. Since your footage is being moved left and right (X & Y) your background color of your composition will show through on the edges as your footage moves. in the image) The Motion Tracker Apply Options will appear on screen and you will need to select the Apply Dimensions, X and Y, then click on OK.Īfter you have applied the information to the layer, After Effects will generate numerous keyframes which will move the layer in X and Y direction to stabilize the footage. in the image) which is just the layer of your footage you want to Track and then click on Apply (4. in the image) After Effect will analyze the footage and add specific information to the layer for each frame of the footage. You can also analyze your footage frame by frame by clicking (2. To perform the analyze process click on the (Analyze Forward button - 1. Be sure to select a high contrast area again.Īfter you have your Track Points setup you are ready to analyze your footage. Click on the Rotation checkbox to open up the Second Track Point. If you have any rotation in your footage you will want to enable the second Track Point to achieve a better effect. When grabbing and sliding the Track Point around, it will zoom in for a better view. To assure that you are not out of place you must select a high contrast area so the search area is easier to track. This Inner Square is the area that After Effects will search for within each frame. Clicking on the Inner Square will allow you to move the Track Point around. This Track Point consists of an Inner Square and an Outer Square. Once you select Stabilizing Motion a Track Point will appear in the Viewer panel. There are two types of motion tracking: Stabilizing Motion and Track Motion. Types of Motion TrackingĪfter you have selected your desired footage, we now need to track it. When you do, the viewer window will open for the footage you selected. You can also go to the Motion Source drop down menu and select the footage you want. Once you open it in your Viewer the Motion Source should automatically select the layer you opened in the viewer. If you double click your video layer it will open it in the Viewer. The Motion Source tab is set to none when you are in your composition panel.
If you do not see the Tracker Panel go to Windows > Tracker and the panel will open on the right hand side for you. To start tracking a piece of footage we need to open the Tracker Panel. After Effects makes this process pretty easy to learn. Camera tracking is a function that allows you to track the motion of an object or a specific place within footage frame by frame. If for example you left your desk for an hour to eat lunch or get a shower, you come back to see all your panels and frames all over the place, simply click on the Workspace drop menu and select Reset “My Workspace.” You will receive a popup that asks if you wish to discard all changes, select “Discard Changes” and your workspace will be right back the way it should be. Discard Changesĭiscarding changes sounds like something you may never use, however, if you have a friend, colleague or children who like to mess with your computer and programs, you actually might need this feature.
In this guide, we will cover 1) workspace layouts, 2) camera tracking, 3) 3D layers and lights, and 4) expression controls. That’s why we’ve put together this beginner’s guide for advanced tools and techniques in AE. There are many how-tos out there teaching advanced tricks in AE-or for working with ready-made After Effects templates- but you might need a more comprehensive introduction to working with the program.
Are you ready to take your After Effects know-how to the next level? From eye-catching logo reveals and title sequences to mesmerizing alpha channel animations, After Effects can really upgrade the production value of any project-even if you’re working on a shoestring budget.