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How Do I Export a Video from After Effects CC?

Published in Video Editing 4 mins read

To export a video from After Effects CC, you'll primarily use the Render Queue. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

Steps to Export Your Video

  1. Add Your Composition to the Render Queue:

    • Go to File > Export > Add to Render Queue. This will open the Render Queue panel at the bottom of the After Effects interface.

  2. Configure Render Settings:

    • In the Render Queue panel, you'll see your composition listed. Click on "Best Settings" (next to "Render Settings") to adjust the quality, resolution, and frame rate of your output. Unless you have specific needs, the default "Best Settings" are usually a good starting point.

  3. Choose Your Output Module Settings:

    • Click on "Lossless" (next to "Output Module"). This is where you specify the video format, codec, and other important parameters.

    • Format: Choose your desired video format.

      • QuickTime: A versatile format, often used with the ProRes codec for high-quality intermediate files or H.264 for smaller file sizes.
      • H.264: Popular for online video platforms due to its good compression and quality.
      • AVI: An older format, less commonly used today.

    • Codec: The codec determines how the video is compressed. Different codecs are suitable for different purposes. Some common codecs include:

      • Apple ProRes: A high-quality codec ideal for editing and archiving.
      • H.264: A widely compatible codec, suitable for delivery.

    • Channels:

      • RGB: Standard color video. Select this for most video outputs.
      • RGB + Alpha: Use this if your composition has transparency and you need to preserve the alpha channel in the output video.

    • Audio Output: Ensure that "Audio Output" is enabled if your composition contains audio. You can also adjust the audio settings within the Output Module Settings.

  4. Specify Output Destination:

    • Click on the output path (usually a file name in blue text) next to "Output To:". Choose a location on your computer and give your exported video a name.

  5. Start the Render:

    • Click the "Render" button at the top right of the Render Queue panel. After Effects will begin processing your composition and creating the video file.

Choosing the Right Format and Codec

The best format and codec depend on your intended use for the video.

Use Case Format Codec Notes
Editing or Archiving QuickTime Apple ProRes Maintains high quality; large file sizes.
Online Video (YouTube, Vimeo) H.264 H.264 Good balance of quality and file size; widely compatible.
Web Delivery MP4 H.264 A container format that commonly uses H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec for efficient web delivery.
Alpha Channel Required QuickTime Animation Ensure your composition is set up to support transparency; useful for overlays and lower thirds.

Additional Tips

  • Adobe Media Encoder: For more advanced encoding options and batch processing, consider using Adobe Media Encoder. You can send your After Effects composition directly to Media Encoder from the Render Queue (Composition > Add to Adobe Media Encoder Queue).
  • Presets: Explore the available presets in the Output Module Settings to quickly apply common export settings.
  • Render Time: Complex compositions and high-quality settings will increase render time. Be patient!
  • Watch Folder: In Media Encoder, create watch folders for automated video encoding from a specific folder.

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