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How to Rotoscope in After Effects Using Rotobrush 2.0


If you're looking to isolate specific objects or people in a video, rotoscoping is a great technique to use. Essentially, rotoscoping involves tracing around the object or person frame-by-frame, so you can separate them from the background. In this tutorial, we'll walk you through how to rotoscope in After Effects using the rotobrush 2.0.




Step 1: Import Your Video and Create a Composition


First, you'll need to import your video into After Effects. Then, create a new composition by dragging your video into the composition icon at the bottom of the screen.


Step 2: Start Rotoscoping


Once you have your clip in a new composition, you can start rotoscoping. First, go to the beginning frame of your video by double-clicking on it.


This will bring up the layer panel. Then, go up to the rotobrush tool, or hit option w to access it.

You'll see a green circle with a crosshair in it. Use the command button to adjust the size of your brush as needed.


To start rotoscoping, draw around the object or person you want to isolate. If you're not sure what to select, try outlining their body first. You'll notice that the rotobrush tool generates a red outline as you draw. This is the area that will be removed from the background.


Step 3: Refine Your Rotoscope


Once you've drawn around your subject, you can use the refined edge tool (or hit option w again) to fine-tune your rotoscope. This tool is especially useful for isolating tricky areas, such as facial hair or soft edges.


Use it to outline any hairs or light edges that you need to focus on.

To see how your rotoscope is progressing, you can toggle between different views.


The matted view shows you what will be removed, while the outline view shows you the edges of your selection. The final view shows you the area that will be kept.


Step 4: Let After Effects Render Your Rotoscope


Once you're happy with your rotoscope, hit the space bar to let After Effects start rendering out the frames. This process can take some time, so be patient.


As the frames are rendered, you'll see the rotoscoped object or person become more and more isolated from the background.


Step 5: Refine Your Rotoscope as Needed


Keep an eye on your rotoscope as it progresses. If you notice any areas that need more work, go back and refine them. You can use the rotobrush tool and refined edge tool to make adjustments as needed.


Conclusion


Rotoscoping can be time-consuming, but it's an essential tool for anyone who wants to isolate specific objects or people in a video.


With the rotobrush 2.0 in After Effects, the process is much more user-friendly than it used to be. Use the tips and tricks outlined in this tutorial to create a polished rotoscope in no time.

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