How to Create & Open a Project in Adobe After Effects – Beginner's Guide

 

How to Create and Open a Project in After Effects

Adobe After Effects is a powerful tool for motion graphics and video editing. If you’re new to After Effects, here’s how you can create and open a project easily.

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1. Creating a New Project

1. Open After Effects

   • Launch Adobe After Effects on your computer.

2. Create a New Project

   • When the welcome screen appears, click "New Project".
   • If After Effects is already open, go to File → New → New Project.

3. Save Your Project

   • Before you start working, save your project:
     • Click File → Save As → Save As...
     • Choose a folder and enter a name (e.g., MyProject.aep).
     • Click Save.
   • It’s a good habit to save frequently to avoid losing work.

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2. Opening an Existing Project

1. Launch After Effects

   • Open the software and select "Open Project" from the welcome screen.

2. Browse for Your Project File

   • Navigate to the folder where your .aep file is saved.
   • Select the file and click Open.

3. Using Recent Projects

   • After Effects shows recent projects on the home screen.
   • Click on a project name to open it quickly.

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3. Understanding the Project Panel

Once your project is open, you will see:

• Project Panel (top-left): Stores all your media files.
• Composition Panel (center): Where you see and edit your video.
• Timeline (bottom): Controls animation and effects.

Now you’re ready to start working on your After Effects project!