By utilizing Premiere Pro's suite of tools, I transformed static text into a dynamic typing effect, enhancing the storytelling element of my video. Following a step-by-step process, from crafting the text to fine-tuning its appearance and rhythm, allowed me to add depth and engage viewers effectively.
I fucking hate when I've shot the perfect video, but when it comes to post-production, I'm stumped on how to add that touch of dynamic text. Ever felt that way? The solution isn't complex graphics or flashy animations; sometimes, it's as simple as a typing effect. This effect, often seen in documentaries, YouTube intros, and instructional videos, can convey information, add depth, and increase viewer engagement. But how to get that typewriter-style text appearing letter by letter without it looking amateurish? That's the challenge.
In this breakdown:
For our typing effect, you need a canvas, and in Premiere Pro, that’s the timeline. You've probably already imported your clip into the 'Project' panel. If not, simply drag and drop your video file into this panel. Then, click and drag your video clip from the 'Project' panel onto the timeline at the bottom of the screen.
Titles in Premiere Pro provide a blank canvas for text and graphics. To create one, head to the bottom right section where the 'Project' panel is. Right-click within this panel, choose 'New Item,' and then select 'Title.' This action opens up the 'Title Designer' window.
In the 'Title Designer' window, select the 'Type Tool,' which looks like a capital ‘T’. Now, click anywhere on the screen and type out your desired text. On the right side, you'll see various properties like font, size, and color. For instance, let’s say you choose a font size of 48 with a bold weight. Remember, these adjustments are crucial as they set the visual tone for your typing effect.
To get that neat typing animation, we'll need the 'Typewriter' effect. Move your eyes to the 'Effects' panel on the right. If it's not visible, click on ‘Window’ in the top menu and select ‘Effects.’ Within this panel, there's a search bar. Type in “Typewriter” and, like magic, it appears below. Now, drag this effect onto your title in the timeline.
Here's where the magic happens. With the title sequence selected on your timeline, shift your attention to the 'Effect Controls' panel, usually located at the top left. If you can't spot it, go to ‘Window’ and select ‘Effect Controls.’ Under the 'Typewriter' effect, you'll see keyframes for 'Start' and 'End.' These keyframes are like markers that dictate when the effect begins and concludes. By dragging them closer or further apart, you're essentially controlling the typing speed. For instance, if you set the 'Start' keyframe at 1 second and the 'End' keyframe at 5 seconds, your text will type out over a span of 4 seconds.
To truly elevate this effect, consider embedding a subtle keyboard typing sound. You can import an audio clip just like you did with the video and align it with your typing effect on the timeline. This additional layer of sound enhances the believability and immersion of your typing animation.
Before you finalize, it’s always a good practice to preview your creation. Move the blue playhead before the title effect on the timeline and press the spacebar. Watch closely as your text types out on screen. If it feels too fast or slow, remember, you can always tweak those keyframes in the 'Effect Controls' panel.
Satisfied with the look? Fantastic! It’s time to bring it all together. Head to ‘File’ at the top, hover over ‘Export,’ and choose ‘Media.’ Here, you can pick your desired video format and other export settings. Once you’ve adjusted to your liking, hit the ‘Export’ button.
What we’ve just walked through allows you to not just add a typing effect, but to tailor it to your unique vision. This capability to tweak, refine, and customize is the essence of Premiere Pro. It’s about having all the options at your fingertips, allowing your creativity to truly flourish. Think of each tool and effect as different brush strokes, enabling you to paint your masterpiece. And with this typing effect, you’ve added one more stroke to your palette. Happy editing!
The 'Typing Titles' template available on Motion Array is a specially curated motion graphics template designed to give videos a dynamic and contemporary feel. It's more than just the classic typewriter effect. This template offers a sophisticated blend of animations, transitions, and customizable features that can be tailored to fit any project seamlessly.
To harness the full power of the 'Typing Titles' template and make it resonate with your unique vision, here's a step-by-step guide:
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