In this tutorial I will show you exactly how to create this Realistic Portal from the Rick & Morty TV series from star to finish, using Adobe After Effects.
🎥 What You'll Learn
- Rotoscoping techniques for seamless effects
- Creating dynamic portal animations
- Integrating lighting and color grading
- Adding finishing touches for realism
🛠️ Tools You'll Need
- Adobe After Effects.
- Video footage (you can download the sample footage with the button above)
- Optional plugins: VC Color Vibrance, Optical Flares
📁 Download Tutorial Files
- Free Tutorial Files: Download Here
- Project Files: Download Here
🚀 Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparing Your Footage
Start by importing your footage into After Effects. Make sure you have a clean plate (a shot without the subject) to help with the portal effect.
2. Rotoscoping Your Subject
Duplicate your footage layer and use the Roto Brush tool to isolate yourself (or your subject). This allows the portal to appear behind you as you step through it.
3. Creating the Portal
In a new composition, create an elliptical mask on a solid layer to form the basic shape of the portal. Apply Fractal Noise and Twirl effects to simulate the swirling energy inside the portal.
4. Adding Color and Glow
Use the free VC Color Vibrance plugin to give the portal that iconic green hue from Rick and Morty. Adjust the glow settings to make it look vibrant.
5. Integrating the Portal into Your Scene
Place the portal composition into your main footage. Position and scale it so it looks like it's appearing in your room. Use the Liquify effect to make the portal react as you step through it.
6. Adding Light Interactions
Create adjustment layers to simulate the light emitted by the portal affecting your surroundings. This enhances realism by showing the portal's glow on nearby objects and surfaces.
7. Final Touches
Apply color grading using LUTs from Artlist.io to match the mood of the scene. Add any additional effects like camera shake or sound effects to complete the illusion.
