After Effects is a complex application and the most difficult of the Creative Cloud tools to learn. The application has a steep learning curve that new users may find overwhelming, even after they feel comfortable navigating the interface. Unlike other Adobe software, such as Photoshop or Illustrator, After Effects requires a more in-depth understanding of animation principles and video editing techniques. Users need to feel confident working with keyframes, motion paths, and other animation tools in order to utilize the full capabilities of After Effects.
Is After Effects difficult to learn
After Effects is challenging to learn, especially for those who have no prior experience with the application or any of its Adobe Creative Cloud counterparts. Before creating any projects in the application, After Effects users need to have a working knowledge of linear video, 3D animation, and special effects. Anyone who does not spend time familiarizing themselves with the basics of these concepts will struggle to harness the full capabilities of the application. Additionally, it can be difficult for new users to navigate the interface and find the tools they need to complete a project as new updates of the software are released.
However, structured After Effects courses taught by experienced professionals can help new users conquer the application’s steep learning curve. The introductory After Effects course from the American Graphics Institute covers topics that are essential for beginners, including media management, nesting compositions, layer blending, and 3D animations. This course comes with a certificate of completion and can be taken online or in person at an AGI campus location.
Is it possible to learn After Effects on your own
Although it is possible to learn After Effects on your own, it is extremely difficult and time-consuming. Users who teach themselves how to use the application have to learn through trial and error, which requires substantial amounts of practicing in order to achieve basic proficiency. Even with practice, After Effects users who are self-taught may not be able to execute professional-grade animations, keying, and compositing. While free resources can be used to supplement the learning process, they generally
lack the detailed instruction and collaborative learning environment provided by After Effects bootcamps, certificate programs, and standalone classes, such as those offered by AGI.
Classes make it less difficult to learn After Effects
To make it easier to learn After Effects, consider online courses or in-person training. These workshops not only shorten the time needed to learn After Effects, and also provide the opportunity to develop a portfolio of work and learn from professionals with experience in broadcast, film, and online media production.
AGI offers several After Effects courses, which are offered both online and in-person for users of all skill levels. AGI’s introductory After Effects course covers digital video basics, navigating the interface, managing media, and using special effects tools. AGI also offers an advanced After Effects course for users who have a solid grasp on the basics. Chroma keying, motion tracking, color correction, and time remapping are just a few of the techniques that students who enroll in this course use to create professional-grade projects.
While learning After Effects can be a challenging experience, anyone can become proficient in this application with dedication, practice, and the right resources. Whether you are a novice or experienced animator, AGI’s After Effects courses offer guidance that can help expand your skill set. While it is a versatile and widely used program, individuals who are unfamiliar with its interface and tools may struggle to start working in the application.