Learning Adobe After Effects can feel like a maze of tutorials, presets, and keyboard shortcuts. If you prefer a structured, book-based course that you can read at your own pace, Ben Goldsmith's Adobe After Effects (Paperback) might be the guide you're looking for. It bundles a complete course with a compendium of features into a single trade paperback.
Adobe After Effects by Ben Goldsmith (Paperback)
Quick Verdict: This is a project-oriented guide written by Adobe Certified Instructor Ben Goldsmith. The book walks you through editing and enhancing videos, from animating text and objects to changing scene settings and creating a 3D scene. At USD 74.04, it's a comprehensive resource that includes dozens of exercises you can apply to your own video projects.
Who It Suits: You'll appreciate this book if you like learning by doing. The included set of projects and step-by-step lessons give you a clear path through After Effects, and the exercises are designed to be used with footage you already have. It's a sensible pick for video editors, motion designers, or anyone who wants a single desk-side reference.
What Stands Out from the Listed Details: The author, Ben Goldsmith, is an Adobe Certified Instructor, and the book includes a set of projects and lessons derived from his teaching. The book is described as a complete course, not just a list of tricks, so you get a logical progression through After Effects features. The "Compendium" portion adds a reference layer for when you need to quickly look up a specific tool or process.
Meaningful Trade-offs: The most obvious trade-off is the format: as a paperback, you get written lessons rather than video walkthroughs. That's fine if you're comfortable following along with a book, but it may not suit every learning style. Also, this edition is a UK import, which might affect which version you're getting if you care about regional printing. At USD 74.04, you're investing in a structured learning path rather than a quick tip sheet.
Bottom Line: If you want to master Adobe After Effects through a disciplined, exercise-driven approach, Ben Goldsmith's Adobe After Effects paperback offers a complete course and compendium in one volume. The clear lesson structure and practical projects make it a worthwhile consideration for anyone who prefers learning from a physical book. Weigh the price against your preference for printed vs. video learning, and it may be the right guide for your after-effects journey.
