Rather, it's an After Effects project file, commonly known as a 'template' because most of the work is already done and the user needs only to make their own customizations. The Flocks template is not a plugin, so there is nothing to install. Music and background footage in demo video not included.Follow the suggestions on the Render Tips Page to optimize the speed of this template.Detailed instructions are found throughout the template, as well as in the video tutorial.You can change the comp size to 4K or any other resolution and the effect will work the same. This effect is not ideal for creating birds that are landing or taking off, since it can not create birds that are standing (with folded wings).

All birds have a wing span of 1600 pixels at 100% scale.The birds in this template are composed of multiple 2D images arranged in three dimensions, which gives them the appearance of having mass, but they are not true 3D models.The project file for the demo video is included, but it is only compatible with CC 2019 and up.If you are using CS5 or CS6 and running AE in a different language, you may get errors. This template has been “universalized” to work in After Effects running in other languages, but only for CC 2019 and up. CS5 and CS6 version is for English users only.No plugins required. Last update: Jan 28, 2021.

Compatible with Adobe After Effects CS5 and all newer versions.

Demo Animations Included - A separate project file for the Flocks demo video is included! If you are creating an animation similar to any in the demo video, this project will save you time.

(You will need a profile image, a bottom-view image, and a wing image, all with transparent backgrounds.)

Add Your Own Species - Create new birds or other flying creatures by swapping out the images.

Adjust the camera position and angle to match your background footage for realistic compositing. Cast realistic shadows from the birds to help sell the effect. Adjust the lighting to match the light angle and color of your background footage.

Works With 3D Lights & Cameras - The birds are created with 3D layers, allowing them to work with light and camera layers.Starling Murmurations - Create mesmerizing starling murmurations with tens of thousands of birds!.Adjust how “synchronized” the flock is, and the amount of random behavior in individual birds. Flocks Of Any Size - Using convenient controls, you can customize the birds’ physical appearance, the wing flapping, and the flock’s flight behavior.Completely Customizable - Using convenient controls, you can customize the birds’ physical appearance, the wing flapping, and the flock’s flight behavior.Their custom random behavior adds realistic variation to their flight path. Controlled Flight Path - Control where the flock flies in three dimensions simply by adding two or more position keyframes.Pre-set Flight Behavior - Each species has pre-programmed flight behavior to mimic that particular species.12 Species - Includes 12 high-resolution 3D models: A bat, crow, bald eagle, canada goose, owl, macaw, pelican, pigeon, seagull, sparrow, starling, and vulture.

Flocks of birds