Well done to those of you who took the time to complete Assignment 1, the results were really terrific. By your comments it sounds like you really found some value in the exercise too which is great. For the next assignment, rather than choosing an entire effect category, we’ll be using only two effects from the Generate category — Radio waves and 4-Color Gradient. Here’s my result.

So, take 30 minutes using a Solid Layer and the Radio Waves and 4-Color Gradient effect, and see what you can create. Avoid using the Brainstorm Tool and remember, there’s no right or wrong result, the idea here is to explore and experiment without the pressure of clients and deadlines. Regular experimentation sharpens your skills and often results in fresh and unique styles. Post your result in the Comments (jpg format only).

Learn how to bend 2D layers along paths using Cinema 4D and After Effects in this 3 part tutorial by EJ Hassenfratz (@eyedsyn).

The buzz around the upcoming inclusion of Cineware and Cinema 4D Lite into After Effects was huge at NAB recently. Check out this wrap up by @davekiss.

If you’ve been following Motionworks for a while you’ll know I’m a big believer in experimentation. Experimenting in After Effects helps you develop a deeper understanding of the tools, giving you more creative options and preventing you becoming stale by relying on only what you know. Plus it’s fun and often results in some truly unique looks.

Last night I spent 30 minutes experimenting with only the effects in After Effects’ Stylize category and came up with this look. This is simply the result of applying effects and playing with the parameters and order in the Effects panel.

So here’s your assignment should you choose to accept it. In 30 MINUTES ONLY using a SOLID LAYER and effects in the STYLIZE CATEGORY ONLY, see what you can create. Keyframing is okay too but avoid using BRAINSTORM.

There’s no right or wrong result, the idea here is to explore and stretch your After Effects muscles. Post your results in the Comments, I’m keen to see what you come up with!

Tinka Tinka’s Render Booster can dramatically improve After Effects render speeds.

GenArts recently released Sapphire 7. Check out these short videos I created for the S_Beauty and S_Zap effects. [Read more]

The next version of After Effects includes closer integration with Cinema 4D, allowing users to open Cinema 4D files directly within After Effects. A new Lite version of Cinema 4D will also be bundled with After Effects! In this overview I demonstrate the new Cineware effect and discuss the benefits of this exciting new workflow.

Maxon and Adobe have announced a strategic alliance. Looks like it’s going to get a whole lot easier to work between After Effects and Cinema 4D.