Visual Special Effects
In this unit we are going to explore some of the exciting visual effects you can do with some creative
shooting and Adobe Premiere Pro. In this project you are going to practice three different special effects
techniques and then create your own video that incorporates at least one of these.
Files: HTLC/Lessons/VisualFX_practice * Remember to copy this entire folder to your “E” drive
Ultra Key
We shot a couple scenes in the studio using the green screen. You are now going to import them into
Premiere and use the Ultra Key effect to remove the green and put an image or some video behind both
clips.
Garbage Matte
We shot several scenes with a single student. You are going to composite two of these scenes into the
same image using the Garbage Matte effect. Try to match up the audio if possible. We will add a little
motion element at the end.
Motion Effects
We shot a clip with two characters playing catch. You are going to use the motion controls to make the
ball bounce back and forth. This is the really tough, time consuming one that really should be done in
After Effects but we are going to do with Premiere Pro. You are going to create a special workspace for
this one and use the right left arrows to run forward and backward through your video as you adjust the
position/scale key frames. If you mess up a couple key frames, just highlight them and press delete.
Master Sequence
Now that we have created our visual FX master pieces we are going to combine them into one example
reel using a new sequence. Please add a name plate at the beginning of each section that includes your
name, the date and the example title. Export this as both an .avi file and .wmv. Copy the .avi to your
MyTech folder for our DVD and the .wmv to the drop box for credit.
Personal Project
Now that you have some experience working with at least a couple special effects techniques you will
select a group of 2-4 students to work with. Your group will create commercial, PSA, or political ad that
sells either a product or an idea. It should start with a hook, and an interesting/informative middle and
conclusion that inspires the view to purchase your product or accept your idea. I will expect you to
create the following prior to shooting:
Storyboard
Script
Treatment