Introduction
If your motion graphics are combined with the background in a single video file, you can separate them using the Roto Brush Tool in After Effects. This method works with any type of background and gives you full control over isolating both the foreground graphics and the background as separate layers.
Step 1: Import Your Video
Go to: File → Import → File. Select your video and drag it onto the timeline to create a composition.
Step 2: Isolate the Motion Graphics Using Roto Brush
Double-click the video layer in the timeline to open it in the Layer panel.
Select the Roto Brush Tool (Shortcut: Alt/Option + W).
Paint over the motion graphics to select them as the foreground.
If needed, hold Alt/Option and paint to subtract unwanted areas from the selection.
Refine the edges using the controls in the Effect Controls panel:
Feather – softens the edges
Shift Edge – expands or contracts the selection
Reduce Chatter – stabilizes edge flickering
Adjust the selection frame by frame if necessary.
