Skip to main content
M
MasonDrummond
Known Participant
July 8, 2023
Question

How To: Export simple motion graphic w/o black background AND also w/o increasing file size

  • July 8, 2023
  • 1 reply
  • 1025 views

Hello I have been trying to export a few of my text animations from after effects. To get rid of the black background during export, I go to the format options, video codec, then change it to animation (instead of Apple Prores 422, which seems to be default), then I change the channels to RGB & Alpha.

 

When I export this it gets rid of the background successfully but increases the file size DRAMATICALLY. Going from 380KB to 50MB is a crazy leap especially when I am removing a background -- I would think that would decreasse the file size. I am looking to have best of both worlds so what is the trick? Is there a specific Video Codec that would also achieve this goal without increasing file size?

 

To Preface I am new to After Effects so go easy on me.

This topic has been closed for replies.

1 reply

Ishan Y
Ishan Y
Inspiring
July 8, 2023

Hey MasonDrummond,

Currently, high-compression codecs with alpha channel are not supported. If you have access to a system with macOS, you can try encoding in HEVC with alpha: https://kitcross.net/hevc-web-video-alpha-channel/. Is there any specific reason you want a smaller file size? Perhaps we can find a workaround for you. 

 

Thanks,

Ishan

    M
    MasonDrummondAuthor
    Known Participant
    July 8, 2023

    I need file to be smaller for a demo reel I am putting together for my freelance services on Fivver.com. The file limit is 50MB unfortunately, which is very limiting for a video editor

    Andrew Yoole
    Andrew Yoole
    Inspiring
    July 9, 2023

    If it's just a demo reel, why do you need transparency?  If you need to demonstrate your ability to work with transparency, you could just have your element on a grey/white chequerboard background, perhaps?

     

    If you explain your end goal it might be easier for us to offer suggestions.

    Terms & ConditionsAccessibility statement
    Using the community Terms of use Privacy Cookie preferences Do not sell or share my personal information ad choicesAdChoices