Intro Maker Tutorial - Text Overlay Component

Film & Animation

Introduction

In this article, we will explore how to use a text overlay component for video editing, specifically focusing on applications like Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects. This component is designed to be lightweight and easy to utilize, offering flexibility for users who want to overlay text on video. While this tutorial is aimed at showcasing the overlay component effectively, it is also a response to a customer request and will guide you through its application.

Overview of the Text Overlay Component

The text overlay component consists of five titles rendered against a black background. Each title includes a half-second of dead space between transitions, making it adaptable for various uses. Although it can work standalone, it is optimized for use over video clips. If you only need a few text titles, they can be easily trimmed or filled with text to suit your preferences.

Steps to Use the Text Overlay Component in Premiere Pro

  1. Project Setup: Begin by having your main video file ready. In this tutorial, I will use a sample video downloaded from Pixels. I will also bring in the rendered text overlay component from EnterMaker.com for consistency of aspect ratio.

  2. Importing Files: Move the text overlay layer out of the way to work comfortably with your video clip.

  3. Creating Color Matte: In the assets project folder, create a new color matte. Even if you plan to work in black and white, choosing a color like red initially can make it easier to see the results.

  4. Layer Arrangement: Drag the created color matte onto the second layer and extend it to match the length of your main video clip.

  5. Adding Track Matte Key: Right-click the color matte layer and find the ‘Track Matte Key’ effect in the effects panel. Drag it onto the color matte layer.

  6. Setting Up Matte: Access the effect controls and set the matte to ‘Use Video 3’ for Luma. This will allow your text overlay to fade in and out nicely.

  7. Changing Text Color: Double-click on the text overlay to change its color. You can opt for purple, white, or any other color that suits your project.

Steps to Use the Text Overlay Component in After Effects

  1. Composition Setup: Open After Effects and import your main video file along with the rendered overlay component.

  2. Positioning the Files: Create a new composition using the overlay component, which precedes adding the video file.

  3. Time Stretching the Video: Lengthen the main video clip to your desired duration by using the time stretch feature.

  4. Layer Ordering: Position the text overlay on top of the video file.

  5. Setting Blend Modes: If you prefer a direct overlay without tinting, set the mode of the text layer to ‘Add’ to achieve a brighter, clearer appearance.

  6. Color Overlay: For coloring, create a new solid layer and set its color as desired. Apply the ‘Luma Matte’ feature to have the color visible only where the text is shown.

  7. Adjusting Solid Color: To modify the color of your solid overlay later, you can access layer settings conveniently.

By following the steps outlined above in both Premiere Pro and After Effects, you will be able to effectively utilize the text overlay component for your video projects.

Keywords

  • Text Overlay
  • Video Editing
  • Premiere Pro
  • After Effects
  • Track Matte Key
  • Color Matte
  • Alpha Channel

FAQ

Q1: What is a text overlay component?
A: A text overlay component is a visual element used in video editing to display text on top of video content, enhancing the visual presentation.

Q2: Can I use this text overlay component in other software apart from Premiere Pro and After Effects?
A: Yes, the techniques discussed can be adapted for use in various video editing and compositing software.

Q3: How do I change the text in the overlay component?
A: You can double-click the text layer in your video editing software to edit the text, or you can replace it with new text at any time.

Q4: What if I only need one or two titles instead of five?
A: You can easily cut out unnecessary titles or modify them by filling in the required text for your project.

Q5: Can I use music with the text overlay component?
A: Yes, while the component doesn't include audio, you can overlay music in your editing software to complement the visual text.