A Step-by-Step Guide to Pixelating a Video in After Effects

Introduction – Adding a Pixelated Effect in After Effects

Pixelating a video in After Effects is a creative way to add a retro or artistic touch to your project. By combining adjustment layers and effects like CC Ball Action and CC Lens, you can achieve a pixelated style with customized depth and texture. This guide provides a step-by-step process to pixelate your video while incorporating advanced effects for added flair.

Step 1: Import Your Video

Begin by importing your video into After Effects. Go to File > Import > File, select your desired video, and drag it onto the timeline. Ensure your composition settings match the resolution and frame rate of your project for the best results. Step 2: Add an Adjustment Layer

Create an adjustment layer by selecting Layer > New > Adjustment Layer. This layer will hold the pixelation effect and allow you to apply changes to the video non-destructively.Step 3: Apply the CC Ball Action Effect

With the adjustment layer selected, go to the Effects & Presets panel and search for CC Ball Action. Drag it onto the adjustment layer. In the Effect Controls panel, set the Ball Size to 100 and the Grid Spacing to 4. This creates a blocky, pixelated appearance over your video.

Step 4: Add a Second Adjustment Layer

Create another adjustment layer by selecting Layer > New > Adjustment Layer. This additional layer will add a dynamic distortion effect to enhance the pixelated style.

Step 5: Apply the CC Lens Effect

Search for the CC Lens effect in the Effects & Presets panel and apply it to the second adjustment layer. Adjust the Size to 108 and set Convergence to -25. This will create a subtle bulging effect that complements the pixelation.

Step 6: Pre-Compose the Layers

Select all the layers in your timeline, right-click, and choose Pre-compose. Name the new composition and ensure all layers are included. This organizes your timeline and simplifies further edits.

Step 7: Duplicate the Pre-Composition

Duplicate the pre-composition twice by selecting it in the timeline and pressing “Ctrl/Cmd + D”. You should now have three identical layers stacked in your timeline.

Step 8: Apply the Shift Channels Effect

For each duplicated pre-composition, add the Shift Channels effect from the Effects & Presets panel. In the Effect Controls panel, set the following for each layer:

Layer 1: Set Take Red From to Red and all other channels to Full Off.
Layer 2: Set Take Green From to Green and all other channels to Full Off.
Layer 3: Set Take Blue From to Blue and all other channels to Full Off.

Step 9: Adjust the Position of Each Layer

Offset the X position of each pre-composition layer slightly to create a chromatic aberration effect. Select each layer and adjust its position in the Transform properties to achieve the desired displacement. Additionally, set the Mode for each layer to Screen. This blending mode ensures that the layers interact seamlessly, enhancing the overall effect while maintaining the vibrancy of the colors.Step 10: Preview Your Effect

Press the Spacebar to preview your pixelated video. Make adjustments to the effects or positions if necessary to refine the look.

Step 11: Render Your Video

Once you’re satisfied with the pixelated effect, go to Composition > Add to Render Queue, configure your render settings, and click Render to export your final video.

Conclusion

Creating a pixelated video effect in After Effects is both simple and versatile. By layering effects like CC Ball Action and CC Lens, and incorporating advanced techniques like chromatic aberration, you can transform your video into a visually engaging piece. Experiment with different settings and compositions to discover unique styles and effects!