Effectsportal creates and provides free visual and special effect video tutorials for indie filmmakers! All of the tutorials can be created on a low budget and uses items from around the house when possible. Some of the tutorials use software like Adobe After Effects CS4 which is worth investing in, but can be quite expensive. If you don’t already have it then sign up for a 30 day free trial!

Visual effects (VFX) are created in the post production stage and usually involve compositing software like After Effects or a 3D software package like Autodesk Maya. Although VFX are usually dealt with after the shooting, you still need to plan in your mind or on paper your shot for when you shoot. Planning will make it easier when you get to the post production stage, for example if you are adding a CG character you know that you need to leave room in the shot to add it in. Effectsportal already have some visual effects tutorials they include: keying green screen, CCTV camera monitor effect and Night Vision goggles effect.

Special effects (SFX) are created on set effects and include things like weather/environment, pyrotechnics, stunts, fire, gun shots, fake blood and wounds. Effectsportal endeavours to show you how to make as many of the effects explained above possible as easily and cost effectively as possible. Effectsportal already has some special effects tutorials they include: how to make and use fake blood, screen real fire and how to make a stunt dummy.

Effectsportal will post tutorials frequently, so make sure you keep a look out. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified when a new tutorial is released. You can support the site by commenting on the tutorials, submitting your own work and telling your friends about the site.

The authors of the tutorials for effectsportal.net create the tutorials in there own time for you. The tutorials take alot of planning and time. You can donate to effectsportal.net which means we can keep on creating great free tutorials for you! Any size donations welcome. Thankyou.