Reader’s Question:
Is it a good idea to purchase resources like the one in the link below to learn about compositing and effects in After Effects? Do I need to understand English to make use of them? I’m considering waiting until I improve my skills in AE before buying, but the
cost is making me hesitate. https://x.com/toriartworks/status/1900004260575891571?s=46
Thinking About Investing in After Effects Resources
So, I was chatting with a buddy the other day who’s been diving into After Effects (AE). You know, that feeling when you’re super excited about a new skill but also totally overwhelmed? Yeah, we’ve all been there! He mentioned this resource he found online, and it got me thinking about whether it’s worth the investment. First off, let me say, I completely understand the hesitation. AE can feel like a massive ocean of possibilities, and throwing money at resources can make it feel even more daunting. But I remember when I first started learning AE, I was in the same boat. I stumbled upon this expensive course that promised to turn me into the next visual effects wizard overnight. Spoiler alert: it didn’t! I think it’s crucial to build your foundation first. There are so many free tutorials on YouTube that cover the basics and even some intermediate techniques. Honestly, I spent countless hours watching videos and practicing while snacking on way too many chips. Sometimes I’d even find myself laughing at the quirky personalities of the instructors, which made the learning process feel more like hanging out with a friend than a chore. Now, about the language barrier—if you’re not super confident in English, that could be a bit of a hurdle. But here’s the thing: AE is quite visual. You can often pick up on techniques just by watching, even if you don’t catch every word. I remember one tutorial where the guy had this hilarious way of explaining masking, and even though I didn’t understand everything he said, his enthusiasm and the visuals made it all click for me. If you’re thinking about waiting until you’re more skilled, that’s totally valid too. It’s like saving up for a special treat! But just remember, the real magic happens when you start experimenting and applying what you learn. I once spent a whole weekend trying to recreate a cool effect I saw, and while my first attempts were hilariously bad, it was such a rewarding experience seeing my skills improve. If you have the funds and feel like you’re ready to take a leap, go for it! But if you’re on the fence, maybe try soaking up some free resources first and see how you feel. You might surprise yourself with what you can create! Have you had any similar experiences with learning a new skill? I’d love to hear your stories or any tips you might have for tackling AE or any other creative ventures! Let’s share the journey together in the comments!
