In this After Effects tutorial, we'll look at compositing elements that weren't created in a computer or shot in a carefully controlled studio. When combining these natural elements together, you'll have to distort them to match each other.

We'll start off by evaluating our footage, setting up the shot and planning how to integrate the elements together. Then we'll use 3D space and a reference plane to simulate the natural phenomenon of linear perspective as we animate the swan swimming down the canal. After careful study of reference footage, we'll use a radio waves effect and a displacement map to distort the water of the canal to add ripples behind our swan.


Then we'll and go on to simulate the effect of the sun's light on these ripples by adding shadows and highlights. We'll color correct the swan using curves and an edge matte to match the contrast of the swan with the natural environment. Finally, we'll add a reflection of the swan on the canal and distort this reflection with the ripple effect to match the ripples in the water. By the end of this After Effects training, you'll be able to better integrate naturally shot elements together in your own projects. Software required: Adobe After Effects CC 2015.