How To Make a Timelapse in After Effects

Time-Lapse movies are great for a variety of projects; you can use them as establishing shots in sitcoms, corporate marketing videos, and they can make lovely backgrounds for animated slideshows. A time-lapse video is essentially a series of photographs taken at regular intervals to depict how the environment changes gradually over a shorter period of time. In this article, we’ll demonstrate how you may quickly and easily build an After Effects time-lapse effect.

With that said, let’s start!

Step 1. Create a new composition

Calculating your composition length to accommodate the frame rate and number of images is the first step in generating a time-lapse video.

Verify the number of images you have for your Sequence.
New Composition Creation. Selecting a frame rate: A time lapse film produced at 30 frames per second will flow smoothly, but you can select any frame rate you like.
To determine the duration of your composition, divide the number of photographs you have by the frame rate you’ve chosen. For instance, if you use 600 photos at 30 frames per second, your composition will last 20 seconds.

Step 2. Import your images

You are prepared to make a time-lapse sequence if all of your photographs are saved to the same folder and are in the same order. If you are working directly from your Camera, you will likely have Camera Raw files, although this procedure works with PNG and JPEG sequences.

Press Command/Control I on your keyboard or select File > Import. Find the folder holding your image sequence.
To begin, select the first picture in the sequence. If all of your images have accurate names, After Effects will be able to identify a sequence of images.
Make sure the Force Alphabetical Order and Camera Raw Sequence checkboxes are selected. Your Time-Lapse Sequence will display in the Project Browser Panel after you click Import.
Once you’ve watched how it plays, you can adjust the Frame Rate by right-clicking the Sequence in the Project Browser and selecting Interpret Footage > Main.
To update your time-lapse, modify the Frame Rate setting and click OK.

Step 3. Create movements

After Effects’ Time-Lapse Sequence can be used just like any other standalone clip. This implies that you may give your time-lapse clip movement by adding Keyframes and Effects.
Place your Playhead at the beginning of the clip after choosing the Image Sequence. Make a keyframe for the scale or position.
To generate a second Keyframe for the value of your choice, move to the end of the clip. Make any necessary Clip modifications.
Right-click on the timeline, choose New > Adjustment Layer, then add your effects to the Adjustment Layer to add effects like noise and grain.

Step 4. Create slow motion from a video

You can import your video after you’ve shot it to prepare it for editing. The same steps, including naming your photos in order, must be taken for the Time Lapse sequence. It may be advantageous to entirely rename both your Image Sequence and Performer clip.

Drag the finished Time Lapse sequence to your Timeline after completing it as previously explained.
Over the Time Lapse, add the Performer Clip to the Timeline.
Choose Time>Time Stretch by performing a right-click on the performer clip.
You can alter the Stretch Factor or Duration in the dialogue box. When you alter one parameter, the other will reflect the new Stretch Factor or Duration for you.

Step 5. Make an overlay

You can alter the Stretch Factor or Duration in the dialogue box. When you alter one parameter, the other will reflect the new Stretch Factor or Duration for you.

Find Luma Key in the Effect Control Panel and drag it to your clip.
Change the Key Type setting in the Effect Control Panel to Key Out Brighter.
The Threshold, Tolerance, and Edge settings should be adjusted until only the silhouette is visible.
Use the Pen or Mask Tool to create a circle around the parts you want to delete if you discover any corners of your clip that are still visible.
Add any Effects, such as Light Leaks, to your Adjustment Layer by choosing “Right-click > New > Adjustment layer.”

After Effects CC must be opened, a new project must be created, the Import File menu option must be selected, and the appropriate folder containing the altered still images must be located and selected before the time-lapse photos can be turned into a film. You need to make sure that the JPEG Series box is checked, as well as the Force Alphabetical Order box.

Once you have clicked on the first image in the sequence. The time-lapse video that you uploaded appears in the project library. After performing a right-click on the filename, select “New Comp from Selection” from the context menu.

Step 6. Exporting your video

After getting our sequence to perform some kind of slow, understated animation so that it appears as though the camera is moving dramatically, we will need to export a video file. Go to File > Export > Add to Render Queue, then open the Render Queue dialog box by going to Window > Render Queue. From there, you can choose the Output Module and change the settings in the options dialog box. Finally, choose the Output To option and select the location on your computer where you would like to save the video clip that we are currently rendering and exporting.

Conclusion

No matter how you make your time lapse videos, After Effects has a ton of features you can use to modify and enhance the way they look. Now that you are familiar with the fundamentals, you can play with the Frame Rates and Composition options. Check out this helpful manual for more information on Time Stretching and Remapping in After Effects.

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How To Make a Video Podcast

Starting a video podcast can be quite intimidating, but the truth is; having the proper knowledge will help you do things more correctly.

As we all know, knowledge is the key to success. So, for you to navigate your way around the video podcasting industry easily, you need to consume enough information that will enable you to make fewer wrong decisions.

To help you out, we took our time to do more research on how to record video podcasts, and in this post, we will share all you need to know to record a video podcast that stands out.

Part 1. But first: why record with a video?

If you’ve done a little research, you’ll notice many podcasters switched to recording with videos instead of audio. Did they decide to start doing that so we could see their faces? Well, the answer is NO. But before we discuss more on that, you should know what a video podcast is and its types.

You guessed right. A video podcast is a podcast with video. The video element could be a static image or a video recording of the podcast host and the guest. A video podcast will help you do the following;

1. Enhance the visual content

Research shows that humans learn more from what they visualize than what is heard. Yes, this is because 30% of the human brain comprises neurons dedicated to visual processing, and just 3% is dedicated to hearing. Besides, videos are always more engaging compared to audio. So why not combine both to boost your podcast performance?

2. Level up the personality and relatability

Most people have more belief in what they see than what is heard. So, video podcasts allow audiences to easily see your expression and understand your passion for the subject you discuss. It also builds a deeper level of connections between you and them. Also, it helps to add to the originality of your podcast and your brand as a whole.

3. Make the content more accessible

Your podcast show becomes more accessible when it’s in the video. You won’t be limited to just uploading it on podcast platforms but also on social media as a short TikTok trailer, Instagram post, YouTube video, etc. Doing this will get your content in front of a wide range of audience, thus prompting more people to engage with your podcast.

Part 2. Get your gear set up

The first step to starting a video podcast is getting your gear set up. We recommend you start with the following podcast equipment:

A camera (if recording a video podcast)
Microphone(s)
Headphone(s)
Memory cards
Tripods
Computers
Recording software or a digital audio workstation

Let’s dig deeper into each of these. We’ve compiled the best podcast equipment for beginners and pros alike based on our extensive research.

1. DSLRs Camera – Sony A6300 ($779)

If you’re looking to record remotely, just like most podcasters in 2022, we’d advise using a DSLR camera by connecting it to your computer using an Elgato Cam link. A $30 version of the device is available on Amazon.

DSLR cameras are perfect for video podcasts, and one of the most reliable options is the Sony A6300 camera. It’s one rugged camera that feels very good at hand, and it offers excellent 4K video recording quality that allows you to shoot amazing videos for podcasts. You can never go wrong with such a camera at your fingertips.

2. Microphones - Shure SM58 ($89)

There is also other equipment – a microphone you need to start a podcast. There are many quality microphones in the market, but one of the most popular options among podcasters is the Shure SM58. It’s an XLR microphone that usually requires an interface to record. However, if you prefer a USB microphone, you can purchase either Rode, NT-USB mini, or the Shure MV7.

3. Headphones - Monoprice Premium Hi-Fi DJ Style ($26.60)

Headphones are a must for any kind of podcast. Yes, this helps you hear how everyone on your podcast sounds. One of the best choices for podcasters is the Monoprice Premium hi-fi DJ style. The headphones produce the best sound quality and are equipped with thick and comfortable padding that keeps music inside and prevents external noise.

4. Memory Card - SanDisk 128GB Ultra MicroSDXC UHS-I Memory Card ($16.35)

A memory card is also crucial when you’re recording a video podcast. It allows you to store recorded footage safely. Plus, it facilitates moving recorded videos between your computer and camera, especially when you cannot use a USB cable.

5. Tripods - Aureday 74 Camera Tripod ($36.99)

It would help if you had a tripod to shoot stable podcast videos. A tripod is a support tool that will enable you to adjust your camera height, movement, and stability to record a perfect video from any required angle. It is essential if you don’t have anyone helping you behind the camera.

6. Computers - ASUS VivoBook 15 F515 ($358.99)

A computer is just like a mastermind of the whole podcasting process. Yes, it’s where every other device is connected to, and you need it to edit the recorded podcast according to your requirements. Of course, any primary computer is perfect for the process. But if you’re looking to acquire one, the ASUS VivoBook 15 F515 is affordable.

7. Video Podcast Software - Filmora

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Your podcast gear setup isn’t complete without video podcast software. Yes, this one is also essential, as it’s required for performing podcast recording editing to spice up your videos. Wondershare Filmora is an ideal choice for anyone to edit podcast content with high quality!

Part 3. Build your set

Besides having a good quality camera and other podcast gear mentioned above, it’s also crucial to make your set look gorgeous. It makes your video podcast look more professional. Below are ideas for some techniques you can employ.

1. Depth & lighting

To make a professional-looking video podcast, you need to add as much depth as possible. So yes, there should be enough distance between you and the background (don’t be too close or too far). However, if this is impossible because you have a small space, good lighting should spice things up. Godox SL -150 is one perfect choice that you can opt for.

2. Make your background interesting

Your background shouldn’t just be left alone. It would be best to put up some fascinating stuff that will blend with the podcast’s theme and make the video look more admirable. For example, if your podcast discusses relationships, you should have a background that suits the topic.

3. Declutter

It’s never a good idea to leave unnecessary items in the background because that makes it look messy. Also, it may compromise everything you’ve done to spice it up. So, after you finish putting up an exciting background, take a few minutes to inspect the lighting, the elements, and lots more. Then, ensure it’s clean and tidy.

Part 4. Create a collaborative doc

Creating a collaborative doc is also essential for making a podcast. You might ask: “what is a collaborative doc?” Well, it’s where you jot down information on the following;

Niche or Topic
Brand name
Format for the Show and each of the Episodes
Intro and Outro Music
Create a Cover Art
Ideas to record the first podcast

Part 5. Create your show

Now that you have a perfect plan and setup, the next thing is to start the show. But first, what format have you chosen for your first show? Is it the static image recording? The remote interview recording? The in-studio recording? or interview & b-roll recording? Not sure of which format to start with? Worry less. We’ll walk you through the steps of the process for each process. Just keep reading;

Method 1: Static Image Podcast Recording

It is the simplest way to record a video podcast. You don’t necessarily have to show your face. Instead, record an audio podcast, then convert its file into a video file and add a static image to the background to keep playing as the viewer is listening.

You need video editing software to create this kind of video podcast - Filmora is a perfect choice. However, keep in mind that this kind of video podcast is usually less engaging, only that you’ll be able to publish it on various video platforms.

Equipment Required:

Video editor - Filmora
Computer

Method 2: In-studio Podcast Recording

Unlike static image recording, this kind of video podcast requires you to show in the video. It involves capturing the conversation between you and a guest or your colleague from a perfectly set up studio.

Equipment required:

Camera
Microphone
Tripod (if you have nobody to stay behind the camera)
Computer
Headphones
Video editing software - Filmora

Method 3: Remote Interview Podcast Recording

It is just like a live-stream podcast. It involves recording multiple speakers who are not in the same room as you. This kind of video podcast is reliable when you intend to shoot online interviews with guests across the country.

Equipment Required:

Software that supports capturing multiple webcams. An example is Riverside.
Microphone
Computer
Video Editor - Filmora

Part 6. Edit your video podcast

After creating your show, the next thing is to edit your video podcast to make it look worthy when you publish it on any platform. But for this operation, you need powerful video editing software like Filmora.

Filmora is an efficient video editor with many excellent features, including audio recording, audio effects, speech-to-text, and many more. Also, it allows users with any level of experience to create nice-looking videos using these features. With Filmora, you can;

Record high-quality podcasts with no quality loss.
Edit podcast videos with over 1,000 stunning effects and elements.
Add subtitles in different languages, fonts, and formats for your podcast.
Publish podcast videos directly to platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.
Edit audio efficiently with audio denoise, auto beat sync, silence detection, etc.

Here is how to use Filmora to edit a video podcast

Step1 Download and Install Filmora software on your computer

Step2 Create a New Project

You can launch the Filmora app and click Create New Project.

Step3 Upload footage

Click the import button to upload your podcast video, then drag-n-drop it to the timeline.

Step4 Edit Podcast

Right-click the podcast video clip from the timeline > choose Edit Properties. Then, in the pop-up window, tick the checkbox next to Ducking and use the appropriate buttons to adjust the Fade in, Fade out, and pitch.

Step5 Use Speech-to-text

To convert your podcast voiceover into readable text, right-click on the podcast clip from the timeline and select Speech-to-text from the pop-up list.

Select the Language you wish to convert the voiceover to click OK to proceed.

Step6 Add Video & Audio Effects

To add video and audio effects to your podcast, you just need to click Effects from the top side of the screen. Then, click an option from the left side of the screen and select the effect you’d like to use in your video. After that, drag-n-drop the effect to the timeline.

Step7 Preview and Save Video

Finally, play the clip to preview the edited podcast and use the Export button at the top of the screen to save it to your computer.

For more detailed video podcast recording steps with Filmora, we advise you to refer to this video Record Podcast on Filmora

Part 7. Upload your video podcast

Firstly, you need a video platform to upload your show. Some of the excellent options you can find in the industry include YouTube, RSS, Spotify, Vimeo, Riverside.fm, and many others. Also, you can upload the show to video platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, etc. To upload the podcast video to a platform like YouTube, you just have to do the following;

Step1 Open YouTube’s official website and create or login into your account.

Step2 On the new interface, click Create New from the top-right corner and choose Upload Video.

Step3 Next, click Select Files and upload the podcast video.

Step4 Once the upload is complete, adjust the editing/settings according to your requirements and publish your video to complete the operation.

Most people think the final phase of making a video podcast is uploading to a video platform, but you still have to share and promote your content on different platforms. Nevertheless, it will help get the podcast to a wide range of audiences.

Thankfully, a video podcast allows you to upload a short clip of your show to different social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, etc. With this, your show will become more accessible across various platforms, thus increasing your show’s engagement. Honestly, it’s a win-win!

The Bottom Line

There you have it! Just like that, you’re ready to be a part of the top-rated video podcasters you can ever think of. With all that’s discussed in the article, we believe you can now focus on creating valuable and engaging content for your audience.

However, as you start to record video podcasts, we advise you to invest in the right marketing tools to help you gain more attraction in the industry.

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