Motion graphics are incredibly popular these days, but starting out can feel intimidating for beginners. This practical 5-week course is all about making it easy and fun to get into animating typography in Adobe After Effects. Weʼll study the basic animation principles and learn how to use them with the built-in tools in After Effects so you can start animating without breaking a sweat. During class, we’ll study a selection of creative projects that you might have seen out in the world, and we’ll break down some of the animation techniques they used to achieve their effects. We’ll use this knowledge to learn the tricks and tools to help us bring some of those kinetic type ideas into our own work.

If youʼre a graphic designer, a design educator, or just curious about motion graphics, this course is a great chance to get comfortable with the tools and get started with animating type. In-class demos and homework assignments will help you connect with your classmates and share ideas with each other. By the end of the course, you'll learn the basic skills to keep animating and bring some captivating motion into your existing projects. You will also become familiar with the AE interface and develop an eye to analyze the motion techniques behind the creative work you see in the world.

Audience and Format

This class is ideal for beginners in Adobe After Effects, but intermediate students will also find valuable insights to take away. Each week, we will dive into a case study to learn After Effects fundamentals, animation principles, native AE effects, and handy shortcuts. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this course offers something for everyone.

The course includes 5 live sessions, taught live on Zoom, with a dedicated Slack channel for ongoing support. Each week, weʼll also have a one-hour office hour session, focused on exercises and troubleshooting, ensuring you get the help you need as you apply what you've learned.

Goals

• Demystify the Motion Graphics work process
• Get confident with After Effects interface and essential tools
• Keep up an independent practice

Learning Outcomes

• Learn to analyze and replicate motion techniques
• Produce original kinetic typography animations
• Learn to use timing, easing, and keyframing in kinetic typography
• Get to know some of AE native effects and handy shortcuts
• Create a final project to show off your new skills

Material Requirements

• Reliable Internet connection
• A functioning computer, laptop or desktop
• A license to Adobe After Effects and Adobe Illustrator
• A free Zoom Account
• A free Slack account (an invitation to a class group will be sent to each participant)

Software Requirements

The instructor will be working, demoing, and providing tutorials using Adobe After Effects & Adobe Illustrator.

Scholarship Information

Scholarship seats are available for this course. Please check out more details on the scholarship page. This scholarship is open to all Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, with priority given to those who have limited resources or access to educational opportunities.