Text Animation Techniques in After Effects

Text animation is one of the most powerful features in After Effects. From cinematic title sequences to dynamic lower thirds, well-designed text motion can transform any video into something more engaging and professional. In this article, we’ll explore the most effective techniques for text animation in After Effects. For ready-to-use assets, check out our Text Presets.

Why Text Animation Matters

Animated text isn’t just decorative — it guides attention, sets the mood, and reinforces your storytelling. Smooth motion and creative effects can make your project look modern and cinematic.

Using Text Animators

After Effects provides built-in text animators that let you control properties like position, opacity, scale, and rotation at the character or word level. By stacking multiple animators, you can achieve highly customized effects.

Kinetic Typography

Kinetic typography is the art of making text move in sync with audio or narrative. You can animate words to appear with each beat of music or emphasize specific dialogue by scaling and rotating letters.

Animating with Masks

Mask-based reveals are a clean way to introduce text. Animate a shape layer mask that slides across the screen to gradually reveal letters, creating smooth intros and outros.

Motion Blur for Realism

Enabling motion blur on text layers adds realism by simulating camera movement. It makes fast-moving animations look more natural and less digital.

3D Text Animation

Adding depth to text with 3D layers and lights can give your titles a cinematic look. Use camera rigs to create sweeping movements across the text for dramatic sequences.

Expressions for Automation

Expressions like wiggle() or linking text properties to sliders can automate repetitive animation tasks, saving time and allowing easy adjustments.

Pro Tips

• Keep animations short — under 2 seconds is ideal for intros.
• Combine text effects with sound design for maximum impact.
• Save your favorite animations as reusable presets.

Conclusion

Text animation in After Effects can make your videos stand out and connect more with your audience. Experiment with these techniques and speed up your workflow using our Text Presets designed for professional motion graphics projects.