Home > Masking Techniques, Blend Modes, and Track Mattes

Ian Robinson

A seasoned motion graphics designer, educator, and creative director.

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Masking Techniques, Blend Modes, and Track Mattes

Learn how to take basic designs skills into motion design skills using common After Effects and Photoshop Techniques.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Create masks to remove distracting elements
  • Utilize blend modes for layer interaction
  • Apply content-aware fill for seamless edits

Level: Advanced

Skills you'll gain:

After Effects, Masking, Blending, Tracking

Key Insights

  • Masks can be drawn using shape tools in After Effects.
  • Track masks to follow moving footage for accurate editing.
  • Content-aware fill intelligently fills in removed areas.
  • Blend modes allow for creative layer interactions and effects.
  • Use transparency grids to visualize transparent areas.
  • Track mats determine transparency based on another layer's pixels.
  • Adjust mask modes to add or subtract visible areas.
  • Use effects like glow and flicker to enhance visuals.
  • Always preview after applying effects to check results.
  • Organize layers and effects for efficient workflow.