Opening Adobe After Effects for the first time can be intimidating. With a wide selection of different features to choose from, there are multiple methods to consider when learning how to crop video in After Effects. In this blog, our creative Greenville NC team is sharing two simple methods on how to crop video in After Effects. The first method uses the Region of Interest tool and will give you a more standard crop. The second way uses the Pen tool, which allows you to make a much more customized crop. Let’s get started!

How to Crop Video in After Effects With the Region of Interest Tool

Step 1: Select the Region of Interest Tool

Select the Region of Interest tool below the composition in the Composition panel.

Step 2: Create the Box

With the Region of Interest tool, create a box around everything you want to include. This method of how to crop video in After Effect doesn’t have to be exact initially. You can adjust the box to where you want it after your selection. Toggle the Region of Interest visibility by deselecting the box that you created.

How to Crop Video in After Effects With the Pen Tool

Step 1: Select the Pen Tool

In the case of learning how to crop video in After Effects with the Pen tool, our creative Greenville NC team recommends preparing by having the current-time indicator to the exact frame in which you would like to crop your element. When you are ready, select your video and select the Pen tool.

Step 2: Crop

Use the pen tool to draw a custom shape around your element to crop. Our creative Greenville NC professionals note that the mask does not have to be precise with the initial crop, as we will fine-tune the shape after it is masked.

Step 3: Edit the Shape

Use the Select tool to adjust the points and shape of the crop. When polishing your mask, click and drag to add a point and draw out handles that adjust the curve of the mask.

Red Shark Digital | Creative Greenville NC Professionals

Those are two efficient methods to try out when learning how to crop video in After Effects! Discovering different methods of how to crop video in After Effects is a great way to build your toolkit and strengthen your skills. Did you find this tutorial on how to crop video in After Effects beneficial? Subscribe to our Red Shark Digital YouTube channel for similar content from our team of graphic design Greenville NC professionals.