If you have After Effects skills, you can work in a number of jobs, including motion graphics designer, 3D animator, multimedia artist, visual effects artist, broadcast designer, or video editor. Learn more about careers for those with After Effects skills:
Motion graphics designers use After Effects to create animations and visual effects for a variety of media, including commercials, music videos, and films. Individuals who work in this field combine their knowledge of graphic design principles with animation techniques in order to produce compelling visual media for their clients.
Animators use After Effects to create a variety of animations and effects. Whether they are working on a simple logo or a complex character animation, a 3D animator needs to have a strong sense of spatial relationships, movement, and other design principles.
Multimedia artists create visual effects and animations for a variety of media industries, including film, television, and video games. This field requires proficiency in applications like After Effects, as well as a firm understanding of design and aesthetics.
Visual effects artists use After Effects to create digital effects for films and television shows, such as color gradients and animations. In addition to a strong understanding of After Effects, visual effects artists need to have an eye for detail and a creative imagination.
After Effects is also an important tool for broadcast designers who use the application to create animated graphics that can be easily integrated into live shows. They work closely with producers and directors to create the look and feel of a program, designing everything from opening credits to lower thirds.
Video editors use After Effects to manipulate footage, audio, titles, transitions, and special effects as they splice together the elements of visual projects. Video editors who are proficient in After Effects can offer more advanced editing skills to potential employers, giving them a leg up in the job market.
Social media designers are responsible for creating visual content shared on social media and use After Effects to create eye-catching animations and effects that grab the attention of users on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. In addition to working in After Effects, social media designers also need to understand social media trends and best practices.
Although salaries and growth opportunities vary from role to role, learning After Effects is a great way for individuals who are interested in design and special effects to pursue a creative profession. On average, professionals working in the motion graphics, video editing, design, and special effects industries see salaries around $50,000-$80,000, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Video editors are especially in demand, with the BLS predicting a 12% growth rate in the occupation by 2031.