This book focuses on the use of Adobe"s After Effects—the most popular special effects and artistic video editing tools in the nation. The book begins with a series of structured, hands-on exercises designed to familiarize the reader with the basic After Effects environment. From there the discussion moves on to the collection and management of footage, stills and audio, covers transitional and superimposition techniques and methods. Animation is explored in depth, as are the finer nuances of using After Effects to achieve complex and compelling video productions. Masking, three-d effects, and many other complex concepts are presented in an effective and easily digested format. Planning a Project; The Authoring Environment; Assembling your Assets; Composition; Using Layers; Animation; Playback; Masking; Adding Effects; Three Dimensions; Creating the Master Project; Delivering Your Project to the Viewer. For amateur and professional digital videographers.