The Scripting language After Effects uses is actually JavaScript. Noting that there are plenty of 3rd party JavaScript Graphics and animation Libraries out there, Calvin Swaim posts a little tutorial (2 minute tut) showing how you can use relevant JavaScript Libraries in After Effects scripting.
This episode we talk about using 3rd party Javascript libraries within After Effects
Calvin shows how to prep the js libraries, getting them ready for use in the After Effects scripting workflow, and as an example, shows how to integrate the Underscore.js library into a simple After Effects Script. Calvin notes that some JS Libraries are developed for other “platforms” such as being specifically designed for use on the web, so choose wisely.
After watching this, the predominant question that came to mind is “why are there no JavaScript Libraries specifically for After Effects?” Wouldn’t that be useful?
Be sure to check out the post for Using 3rd Party JavaScript Libraries for After Effects Scripting on Creative Congo as the post lists some JS library references and recourses as well.
Calvin Swaim
Hey Lester…thanks for the write up!
You bring up a GREAT point about 3rd party libraries for After Effects. I think part of it is the size of the AE scripting community is relatively small.
BUT…between you, me and the wall here, I’m actually working on a library for AE that should be ready for a beta release some time in January! Keep an eye out for that…
aescripts+aeplugins
Looking forward to it Calvin, get in touch with us if you’d like to host any of your tools on aescripts + aeplugins. http://aescripts.com/contact/?direct=1