DigiEffects Plug-in for Adobe After Effects
FreeForm AE
Transform flat images, footage and graphics into flexible 3D surfaces—directly inside Adobe After Effects.
Create dimensional motion from 2D layers
FreeForm AE is a 3D mesh-warping plug-in for Adobe After Effects. It gives artists a practical way to bend, shape, displace and animate ordinary layers in 3D space without leaving their existing After Effects workflow.
Start with a still image, video clip, logo, text animation or solid layer, then use a customizable mesh to create rolling terrain, organic waves, rippling surfaces, folds, abstract forms and dimensional motion graphics.
FreeForm AE Features
3D Mesh Warping
Convert a flat layer into a controllable 3D surface. Shape and animate the mesh to create depth, perspective, bends, twists and flowing movement.
Displacement Mapping
Use grayscale artwork, gradients, animated textures or noise layers to drive surface displacement and create detailed organic animation.
After Effects Workflow
Build and animate your effect in the familiar After Effects environment, using compositions, keyframes, cameras, lights and compositing tools.
Make flat artwork feel alive
FreeForm AE is designed for motion designers, compositors and visual artists who need more flexibility than a standard 2D distortion effect. Its mesh-based workflow makes it possible to add believable depth or create completely abstract motion from virtually any visual element.
- Animate logos, titles and typography in 3D space
- Create terrain, waves, cloth-like surfaces and liquid forms
- Build abstract transitions and music-video visuals
- Add depth and movement to product imagery and broadcast graphics
- Drive deformation with animated displacement maps
- Combine surface animation with After Effects cameras and lights
How it works
- Add FreeForm AE to a layer in your After Effects composition.
- Choose the mesh resolution and adjust the surface controls.
- Shape the layer manually or use an image-based map to control displacement.
- Animate the properties, then refine the result with your composition, camera and lighting setup.
Ideal for
Motion Graphics
Create dimensional title sequences, animated logos, transitions and visual identities.
Broadcast Design
Add depth, fluid motion and stylized surface animation to on-air graphics and promos.
Creative Compositing
Push images and footage beyond a flat plane with controlled distortion and 3D movement.
FreeForm AE Download and Licensing
FreeForm AE is a legacy DigiEffects product for Adobe After Effects. Please review current compatibility, licensing and download information before installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FreeForm AE?
FreeForm AE is a plug-in for Adobe After Effects that uses a 3D mesh to deform and animate flat layers. It is useful for creating dimensional surface effects, displacement-based animation and stylized motion graphics.
Can FreeForm AE animate images and video?
Yes. You can apply the effect to compatible layers in an After Effects composition, including images, video, graphics and other visual assets.
Can I use a texture as a displacement map?
Yes. High-contrast images, gradients, fractal-noise layers and animated grayscale artwork can be used to create changing surface detail and movement.
Does FreeForm AE replace full 3D software?
No. It is a specialized After Effects tool for mesh-based surface deformation and animation, rather than a complete 3D modelling or rendering application.