Adobe After Effects - Smart Tips To Boost Your Adobe Skills

Name: Adobe After Effects - Smart Tips To Boost Your Adobe Skills
Rating: 3.5 (2 reviews)

Effects, Presets, Masking Images, Track Matte, Motion Path, Toggle Hold Keyframe, Trim Path PLUS Spinning Globe Effect

Created byPeter Alkema, Mike Lanesman

Last updated 1/2026

English

English [Auto],

What you'll learn

Identify the key features and functionalities of Adobe After Effects.
Understand the purpose and usage of effects and presets in Adobe After Effects.
Apply various effects and presets to enhance visual elements in After Effects projects.
Analyze the concept of masking images and its importance in creating seamless visual effects.
Demonstrate proficiency in using track mattes to control visibility and transparency of layers.
Create motion paths to add dynamic movement and animation to visual elements.
Utilize the toggle hold keyframe to create pauses and sudden stops in animations.
Apply the Trim Path feature to animate the stroke of text in After Effects projects.
Create a spinning globe using the World Effect in Adobe After Effects.
Understand the role of Adobe Creative software in the design and editing industry.
Evaluate the benefits and advantages of learning Adobe software for personal and professional growth.
Compare and contrast different editing software options for creating captivating backgrounds.
Determine the necessary steps and resources to start learning graphic design using Adobe software.
Analyze the relationship between photography skills and editing skills in producing high-quality visuals.
Apply techniques to capture and enhance photographs using smartphones and other devices.
Evaluate the potential for leveraging Adobe skills to generate income and become an entrepreneur.
Understand the importance of engagement within the Adobe community and the value of joining relevant courses.
Assess the affordability options for Adobe software, including subscriptions and one-time payments.
Identify indicators and factors that can help determine if a picture has been edited or enhanced.
Demonstrate proficiency in capturing decent photos on smartphones by applying recommended techniques.
Evaluate the specifications and features to consider when selecting a smartphone for photography purposes.
Utilize the provided workbook to reinforce learning and complete worksheets for each individual lesson.
Analyze the skills and knowledge acquired from the course to apply Adobe After Effects in real-world projects.
Assess personal progress and growth in Adobe After Effects skills through self-evaluation and reflection.
Create a portfolio of projects showcasing the application of smart tips and techniques learned in the course.
Demonstrate effective communication and collaboration with peers in discussing Adobe After Effects concepts and challenges.
Apply critical thinking skills to troubleshoot and solve problems encountered during the creation of After Effects projects.
Reflect on the interdependence between photography skills and editing skills in achieving desired visual outcomes.
Evaluate the relevance and applicability of various Adobe After Effects techniques in different creative contexts.
Apply ethical considerations in using Adobe After Effects, respecting copyright and intellectual property rights.

Course content

8 sections • 53 lectures • 3h 38m total length

Introduction4:04
Welcome to the course!
Adobe After Effects is the industry-leading digital visual effects and motion graphics software. And this course has been designed to familiarize you with some of the smart tips and tricks that will help you while working with Adobe After effects.
Preview and Download The Adobe After Effects Workbook You Get With This Course1:54
In this lesson we preview the Adobe After Effects workbook that you get with this course. All the lessons in this course have their own 1-page worksheets but we have also combined them all in this consolidated workbook which you can download for easy reference in your Adobe journey!
Introduce Yourself To Your Fellow Students And Tell Everyone What Are Your Goals0:18
This is your opportunity to share something about yourself with the rest of the students in this course. Tell us all about your goals and what you want to achieve. You can come back to this board and add more thoughts as you go through the course and achieve your goals. Seeing all the other students in the course will also motivate you and keep you going as you participate in this community of learning.
Student Testimonials For Mike Lanesman "Nice tip! Thanks Mike"2:59
In this lesson, you will see student testimonials from Mike's students, like:
Simple and very helpful. Thanks, Mikel :)
What a great presentation. World-class stuff.
Thanks for the frustration-neutralizing tip!
Let's Celebrate Your Progress In This Course: 25% > 50% > 75% > 100%!!1:20
Throughout this course we will celebrate your progress at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. I really want you to succeed but you need to take action and keep going so look forward to these milestones of progress. I will see you there and cheer you on as you keep going from one milestone to the next >>

What is Generative Fill in Photoshop, and how does it help edit images?3:24
Discover how generative fill in Photoshop 2025 uses prompts to remove objects, powered by Gemini 3 nano banana pro and Firefly. Compare AI edits with tools such as content-aware fill.
What is Generative Expand in Photoshop, and how does it extend images?2:53
Explore Photoshop's generative expand feature, powered by AI, to extend images from three-quarter to full length or convert portrait to landscape while keeping the model natural.
How does Photoshop AI use prompts to edit images?2:14
Learn how Photoshop AI prompts drive generative fill to edit images, using Gemini three and Banana Pro to add foliage while keeping tracks visible, craft sunset lighting and snowy mountains.
How does Photoshop AI use Generative Fill with a prompt to edit images?1:42
How does Photoshop AI help with model posing and camera angles?2:03
Photoshop AI’s generative fill lets you adjust model posing and create new camera angles from a single image using prompts, yielding front, top-down, or worm’s-eye views without reshoots.
How do the Photoshop AI Remove Tool and Harmonize feature improve image editing?3:22
Leverage AI-powered remove tool to eliminate distractions such as wires, cables, and people, and harmonize inserted images by matching ambient lighting and shadows.
How does Photoshop AI help change outfits in an image?1:14
Explore using Photoshop's generative fill to change a model's outfit with a reference image and prompt, preserving pose and features, then compare starting and final results.
How does Photoshop AI retain text styles and color a photo?2:54
Leverage Photoshop AI to recognize text and lighting style, enabling text changes with generative fill and typography preservation, and recolor black-and-white photos to vibrant, natural tones.
How does Photoshop AI work behind the scenes?3:04
Explore how ai analyzes images, generates accompanying visuals from prompts with generative fill, and deconstructs studio lighting and camera setups to reveal behind the scenes details.

How does Adobe Firefly help create a mixed drinks recipe?2:57
How does Adobe Firefly help with storyboarding?0:50
How does Adobe Firefly create an animated deconstruction of a product?1:11
Learn how to convert a static product image into an animated deconstruction video using ai prompts and video tools, showcasing product photography with dynamic visuals.
How does Adobe Firefly create an animated pack shot?2:05
Turn a pack shot into an animated video with Adobe Firefly by uploading the first frame, selecting 9:16 portrait, and prompting waves to wash over the product without obscuring it.
How does Adobe Firefly help create fashion imagery?2:52
How does Adobe Firefly create animations of Alvin & the Chipmunks singing?1:30
Learn how prompts using artificial intelligence animate cartoon characters and enable audio to sing, using a reference image and lip syncing output of Alvin and the Chipmunks.
How does Adobe Firefly create die-cuts and dielines?2:54
How does Adobe Firefly create a knolling image?2:21
Create a knolling image by tiling items at 90-degree angles, then generate a 16:9 video of different hands placing the items on a table with Adobe Firefly.
How does Adobe Firefly create a Coca-Cola animation?1:27
See how Adobe Firefly generates a Coca-Cola animation using a prompt to fly a 3d camera through a poster, turning it into a playful science-fiction video of elves bottling Coca-Cola.
How does Adobe Firefly create out-of-bounds effects and text-to-image designs?2:34
Explore creating out of bounds photo effects and text-to-image designs with Adobe Firefly, using prompts, reference images, and style controls to generate futuristic scenes and varied lighting.
How does Adobe Firefly use text-to-image prompts?1:59
Explore how Adobe Firefly's text-to-image prompts generate runway scenes and pilots, download images, edit in Photoshop Web, and apply styles to set mood for design mockups and storyboards.
How does Adobe Firefly create an ad campaign from start to finish?7:51
Explore how Adobe Firefly boards enable end-to-end ad campaigns—from logo creation, asset organization and storyboarding on boards to generating images and a short promo video.

Getting Started7:27
This lesson gives you a quick overview of the Adobe After Effect home-page. It defines basic terminologies such as- Composition, Anchor Point, Keyframe, Motion Path, etc.
Knowledge Check - Getting Started
Working with Effects and Presets3:38
This lesson details the step-by-step process of working with Effects and Presets. It will also cover some tips and techniques to work with them efficiently.
Knowledge Check - Working with Effects and Presets

Creating a Motion Path4:03
This lesson details the step-by-step process of creating a Motion Path.
Knowledge Check - Motion Path
Using the Toggle Hold Keyframe4:29
This lesson details the step-by-step process of working the Toggle Hold Keyframe. It will also cover some tips and techniques to work with them efficiently.
Knowledge Check - Hold Key-frame
You've Achieved 25% >> Let's Celebrate Your Progress And Keep Going To 50% >>0:24
Throughout this course we will celebrate your progress at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. I really want you to succeed but you need to take action and keep going so look forward to these milestones of progress. I will see you there and cheer you on as you keep going from one milestone to the next >>

Introduction to Mike Lanesman, overview and thoughts on adobe creative software8:18
Explore practical Adobe skills with Mike Landsman across Photoshop, Lightroom, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat, Premiere Pro, and After Effects, plus teaching insights to boost your editing.
All about the Adobe community and courses that are coming out soon; join, engage3:18
Join the Adobe community to access upcoming courses, engage with tips and tricks, and learn smart tips for Adobe After Effects, with support through hybrid distance learning.
Mike answers a question about handling lighting on a budget and editing after4:19
You've Achieved 50% >> Let's Celebrate Your Progress And Keep Going To 75% >>0:29
Throughout this course we will celebrate your progress at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. I really want you to succeed but you need to take action and keep going so look forward to these milestones of progress. I will see you there and cheer you on as you keep going from one milestone to the next >>
"I can take great pics, software takes me to the next level; interdependence"4:07
Explore how great photos paired with Photoshop upgrades unlock income streams, enabling independent work, plus guidance on logo design in Illustrator and intro animations in Premiere Pro and After Effects.
Know the importance of learning adobe and why adobe is so successful5:31
Discover why Adobe is the industry standard for creative software, from Photoshop and After Effects to InDesign and Illustrator, and how a unified interface boosts learning and workflows.
Does adobe allow once off payments for their software or is it all subscriptions5:55
Compare Adobe's pricing, one-off purchases versus Creative Cloud subscriptions, and see how access to Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and other apps is bundled with student discounts.
Learn recommendations on editing software for creating amazing backgrounds4:28
Learn the tips on how and where to start on graphic design4:41
Would it be better to work on photography skills and make up for editing skills2:52
Focus on your photography skills to capture the best image, because cameras can’t fully balance shadows and highlights, then use basic Photoshop editing to lift the image slightly.
You've Achieved 75% >> Let's Celebrate Your Progress And Keep Going To 100% >>0:31
Throughout this course we will celebrate your progress at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. I really want you to succeed but you need to take action and keep going so look forward to these milestones of progress. I will see you there and cheer you on as you keep going from one milestone to the next >>
Using phones to take images and overcompensating for editing and other factors4:17
Master smartphone photography for editing with Photoshop Mobile and Lightroom Mobile, avoid over editing, focus on sensor size over megapixels, and adapt Adobe workflows for mobile images.
Starting on the courses for where and how to begin on learning adobe software2:32
Join the course community by signing up to the Facebook group to access daily smart tips, ask questions, and follow a step-by-step learning journey for Adobe software.
Is possible to tell if a picture has been edited and other factors on posting4:22
Explore how to tell if an image has been edited, the role of metadata such as creation and modification dates, and privacy risks when posting photos.
Learn tips on taking decent photo on smartphone and specs you should look for3:56
Make money by learning Adobe skills and become an entrepreneur in your community2:54
Develop photography and Adobe editing skills to start a local business, offer logo design, menus, and photography services, and build wealth and job opportunities in your community.
Learn Adobe Creative Skills With Certified Trainer Mike Lanesman1:01:37
Learn practical Adobe creative skills with a certified trainer through a supportive community, covering Photoshop, After Effects, Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom, Premiere Pro, and smart tips.
You've Achieved 100% >> Let's Celebrate! Remember To Share Your Certificate!!1:04
Throughout this course we will celebrate your progress at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. I really want you to succeed but you need to take action and keep going so look forward to these milestones of progress. I will see you there and cheer you on as you keep going from one milestone to the next >>

Requirements

There are no requirements or prerequisites for this course, but the items listed below are a guide to useful background knowledge which will increase the value and benefits of this course.
Basic computer literacy and familiarity with operating systems (Windows or macOS).
A working computer or laptop with Adobe After Effects installed. The course is compatible with Adobe After Effects CC 2017 and newer versions.
Familiarity with the Adobe Creative Cloud ecosystem is beneficial but not mandatory.

Description

Are you looking to take your Adobe After Effects skills to the next level? Do you want to learn smart tips and techniques that will make your projects stand out and save you time? Look no further! In this comprehensive online course, Adobe Certified Trainer Mike Lanesman will guide you through an immersive learning journey designed to boost your Adobe After Effects skills and elevate your creative output.

Adobe After Effects has become an essential tool for creating stunning visual effects, motion graphics, and animations. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this course will provide you with the insider tips and techniques that will set you apart.

Throughout the course, you'll embark on an exciting journey that covers a wide range of topics. You'll start by getting familiar with After Effects and working with effects and presets to enhance your projects. Next, you'll master the art of masking images and working with track mattes to achieve seamless visual effects.

But that's just the beginning! You'll then delve into creating captivating motion paths and using the toggle hold keyframe to add dynamic movement to your animations. One of the highlights of this course is learning how to animate the stroke of text using Trim Path, and even creating a spinning globe with the World Effect.

To provide you with even more value, we've included an optional section featuring insights from a Q&A webinar interview with Mike Lanesman. You'll gain valuable knowledge about Adobe Creative software, discover the importance of learning Adobe tools, and receive recommendations for editing software and graphic design. This bonus section is a goldmine of information for any aspiring Adobe enthusiast.

As a student of this course, you will also receive a full workbook specially curated to complement your learning experience. This comprehensive workbook includes one-page worksheets for each lesson, ensuring that you have all the necessary resources at your fingertips.

What sets this course apart is Mike's unique teaching approach, combining technical expertise with a passion for creative expression. He understands the challenges you face as a learner and provides clear explanations, actionable tips, and engaging projects to help you apply your newfound skills.

By the end of this course, you'll have a solid foundation in Adobe After Effects and a repertoire of smart tips and techniques to enhance your projects. You'll be equipped with the tools to create visually stunning animations, eye-catching effects, and professional-grade motion graphics.

Don't miss this opportunity to boost your Adobe skills and unlock your creative potential. Enroll now and join the thousands of learners who have already benefited from Mike Lanesman's expertise. Get ready to take your Adobe After Effects skills to new heights!

Who this course is for:

Beginners in Motion Graphics: This course is designed for individuals who are new to Adobe After Effects and want to learn how to create motion graphics, visual effects, and animations.
Graphic Designers who want to expand their skills and enhance their design projects with dynamic animations and effects.
Video Editors: Video editors who want to add professional-looking effects and animations to their videos will find this course valuable.
Content Creators for Online Platforms such as YouTubers, social media influencers, and online marketers who want to elevate the visual appeal of their content.
Multimedia Artists who work in multimedia formats, including digital art, animation, and interactive media, can benefit from this course.
Creative Professionals working in creative industries such as advertising, marketing, and media production.

Adobe After Effects - Smart Tips To Boost Your Adobe Skills

What you'll learn

Explore related topics

Course content

Introduction5 lectures • 11min

Brand New AI Adobe Photoshop Lessons: Use Artificial Intelligence Today9 lectures • 23min

Brand New AI Adobe Firefly Lessons: Use Artificial Intelligence Today12 lectures • 31min

Getting Started & Working With Effects & Presets2 lectures • 11min

Masking Images & Working With Track Matte2 lectures • 5min

Creating A Motion Path & Using Toggle Hold Keyframe3 lectures • 9min

Animating The Stroke Of Text & Create A Spinning Globe2 lectures • 4min

[Optional] More Adobe Insights From Q&A Webinar Interview With Mike Lanesman18 lectures • 2hr 5min

Requirements

Description

Who this course is for: