After Effects Light Ray Tutorial + 5 Exclusive Templates!

Adobe After Effects Light Rays

Light rays and 'god rays' are a seemingly simple effect to create in After Effects which can dramatically improve the appearance of the foreground elements in your video. Light rays can be achieved quite easily using the CC Light Burst effect which is native to Adobe After Effects.

Light Ray effects are powerful tools used to create dynamic lighting elements that enhance video compositions with realism or stylistic drama. These effects simulate rays of light that emanate from bright objects or text, adding depth and impact to scenes. Among the most commonly used light effects are CC Light Rays and CC Radial Fast Blur, which are accessible in After Effects' Effects panel.

Key Features:

1. Realistic Illumination:
   • The CC Light Rays effect projects beams of light from a specified point in an image or composition. The intensity and spread of the rays can be customized, making it ideal for emphasizing light sources like the sun, lamps, or glowing text.
2. Customization:
   • Users can control parameters like ray length, brightness, and center position. This flexibility enables the creation of subtle ambiance or dramatic effects.
   • Keyframe support allows the light rays to change dynamically over time, ideal for animated transitions.
3. Creative Applications:
   • Combine light rays with opacity and blur effects to simulate realistic foggy environments or mystical atmospheres.
   • Use with text layers for cinematic title reveals.

Use Cases:

• Cinematic Projects: Add dramatic flares or backlit elements for storytelling impact.
• Music Videos: Enhance energy by syncing rays with beats.
• Logo Animations: Highlight brand visuals with glowing, animated introductions.
• Special Effects: Simulate supernatural or sci-fi lighting.

How To Make Light Rays In After Effects

1. Add a new text layer or object
2. Press CTRL + D to duplicate your text layer
3. Search 'light burst' in the effects panel and apply it to your text/object layer
4. Adjust the colors
5. Keyframe Centre & Intensity to your preference

After Effects Light Ray Templates

Below are  5 templates which can help you enhance the appearance of your light rays in no time!

God Rays In After Effects

Download

This template makes it easy to add god rays to any footage in After Effects. No external plugin required. Simply drag and drop the effect into your composition to see it in action! We recommend using this template over foreground objects with drop shadow in your motion graphic animations.

‍

Light Ray Effect For Logos

Download

A stunning After Effects template called 'Light Rays Logo' displays your company emblem with vibrant color rays. With two editable text layers, a placeholder for a logo, and a control panel, it is simple to use even if you're a beginner.

‍

Adobe After Effects Sun Rays

Download

Another great template for those who are wanting to achieve the light ray effect for their text layers. This one features a multi-colored animation with the light rays sweeping across from left to right.

‍

3D Light Rays Logo

Download

This template combines many elements of your logo with dynamically animated light beams. With only one logo placeholder and an intuitive colour controller, it's really simple to use. A compelling opening for your web broadcasts, video game reviews, and highlight reels.

‍

Cinematic Light Rays Logo v4

Download

This template starts off with the camera pointing from above. You can see the 3D light rays from the foreground to the background layer.

‍