0

In a nutshell, I just got a new job where I have to create at least 30 MP4 files a day cutting different parts of music videos (even from the same one). They will provide me the videos to download and I have to make different MP4s in After Effects not longer than 8 secs.


I was thinking of doing it this way:

Project in AE (10 sec composition) with 3 project folder

  • Footage: full-length videos
  • Cut Footage: cut videos pre-composed

Here is a problem: cutting in AE is so annoying and (because the main comp is 10 seconds) I have to extend the new composition from 10 sec to the length of the video, find the relevant part, put two markers and reduce again the composition within the markers. Finally, I have to move the pre-comp in the main composition where I can start with the effects and stuff. I do all of this because I want more control of the layers, for this reason I prefer to keep a fixed length layer rather than a reduced layer, like in the screen below:

screen

  • Render: the folder where I put the pre-comps formed by cut footage pre-comp + effects

What is the better way of making a rendering queue in AE?


So the worst part is cutting, but what about the size of the project? I mean, should I create an After Effects Project every day that includes 30 MP4 files with of course all of the effects, layers, videos, etc. or is it going to be to excessive? Do I have other options?

9
  • 1
    Is there a reason you're using After Effects for this? Seems a bit overkill and there are MUCH easier ways of doing this. Premiere Pro seems like it would be a more natural choice for cutting down video into little segments like that. Aug 2, 2016 at 11:49
  • 1
    Agree with John, but if you're allergic to using Premiere or really need AE for some reason, there's a tool here that will automatically adjust the length of the comp to the first or last frames of the layers in it, even if they extend past the end: blob.pureandapplied.com.au/first-n-last full disclosure: I wrote it.
    – stib
    Aug 2, 2016 at 12:13
  • That's amazing @stib! Anyway I'm totally fine with Premier Pro, but I don't know, I should create a dynamic link everytime? Or maybe there is a future that I don't know like: cut the video and just drag and drop in After Effects? Aug 2, 2016 at 12:22
  • 1
    I found that this was a very useful tutorial on ways of setting up multiple renders - you might find it helps (not with the trimming your comp part, just the rest): vimeo.com/12875270
    – tomh
    Aug 3, 2016 at 14:38
  • 1
    That's great @tomh! Anyway I found a solution about cutting. I can upload the video on Premiere Pro, cut and select "Replace With After Effects Composition" and that's it, that future is amazing for this type of work! Thank you all by the way! Aug 3, 2016 at 23:36

1 Answer 1

0

I found a solution about cutting. I can upload the video on Premiere Pro, cut and select "Replace With After Effects Composition" and that's it, that feature is amazing for this type of work! Thank you all by the way!

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.