Have you been hesitant to get into animation because you didn't think you were good enough at drawing, or felt that the software was too intimidating?
What if I told you that you don't even really have to draw to illustrate? And that adding motion to your illustration is achievable, even if you've never opened After Effects before.
Using this winter cabin scene as an example, I'll show you my complete workflow, starting from inspiration and planning, through illustrating and animating.
Plus loads of tips for working efficiently that will get you started on the right foot.
I'll show you every step to recreate my wintery scene, but in doing this, every step will teach you something useful that you'll surely come across when creating your own illustrations and animations. Depending on how comfortable you’re feeling, you can follow along with me, or create your own version of a scene that looks a little like mine, or nothing like mine–it’s up to you!
Get unlimited, lifetime access to this class. Watch anytime, at your own pace.
Pre-recorded videos allow you to play, pause, and practice at your own pace.
22 Lessons (3h 6m)
Illustrator project file
Deconstruct my illustration to better understand how to create your own.
After Effects project file
Study my project file to understand how it all works.
This class is perfect for beginners to Adobe Illustrator and After Effects; no prior experience with either program is necessary. But, if you are already a seasoned artist, this class will help you understand how you can add motion to your work.
If you're interested in getting into motion design this is a perfect first step!
Successfully completing this class requires a computer or laptop with:
Illustrator
After Effects
...and I’m an explanimator. I have over a decade of professional experience writing, illustrating, and animating educational animations.
I've taught motion design to 40,000+ students on online and at the University of Colorado.
I know where beginners get stuck, because I was stuck there too. I’m a self-taught motion designer, striving to help you learn motion design more efficiently than I did.
I write, illustrate, and animate educational animations to empower healthier choices for us and our planet.
I also share what I know about animation through online classes.
Excellent instructions. The best animation explainer video I've come across. Love how the instructor starts the class by first sharing with us the mindset, thought process and inspiration process that she goes through.
Arman G.
Megan's teaching style is remarkable, as she expertly explained every aspect of the software in a simple and easy-to-understand manner. The resources provided were incredibly helpful. The hands-on exercise and project allowed me to put theory into practice, solidifying my knowledge and boosting my confidence. I am truly grateful for the her passion and expertise. Her dedication to making the class accessible to beginners like me was evident throughout. I feel equipped and empowered to use After Effects creatively, thanks to her guidance. If you're a beginner looking to dive into Adobe After Effects, I cannot recommend this class enough. It's an exceptional learning experience that provides a solid foundation for mastering this powerful software. Thank you for going above and beyond in delivering such an outstanding class!
Varshita T.
Really overlooked class; perfect for beginners, but I am actually very comfortable in both illustrator and after effects. I wanted to go through this to make sure that my workflow made sense, and it was still helpful. Also learned one or two illustrator shortcuts I didn't know about. Nice teacher! She had some interesting extensions she mentioned she was using, I'd love to see a lesson on that. Overall, great class!
Devon O.
Get unlimited, lifetime access to this class. Watch anytime, at your own pace.
