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Creating Xenomorph VFX in After Effects: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

In this brilliant tutorial from Film Riot, they walk you through a detailed process of creating a cinematic VFX shot with a xenomorph, using After Effects and Element 3D. While the project originally involved using a toy xenomorph, this time they use a 3D model to create a more realistic effect, inspired by Alien Romulus. Here’s how you can replicate this effect step by step, with some tips on lighting, deformation, and adding slime for that classic xenomorph aesthetic.

Step 1: Get a 3D Model

First, we need a 3D model of the xenomorph. You can find one on websites such as CGTrader.

  • Download the 3D model in .obj format.
  • Ensure the model includes textures like albedo (for color) and normal maps (for surface details).

Step 2: Set Up After Effects Composition

  • Open After Effects and create a 4K composition.
  • Add a new solid layer to the composition.
  • Apply Element 3D to the solid layer (from Video Copilot).

Step 3: Import and Set Up the Xenomorph Model

  • Inside Element 3D, go to Scene Setup and import the xenomorph OBJ model.
  • Check the Normalize Size option to ensure the model scales correctly.
  • Move the model’s position so its feet align with the ground.

Step 4: Apply Textures

  • Import albedo and normal maps to your model in Element 3D.
  • Since the model doesn’t come with glossiness or specular textures, use Video Copilot’s Pro Shaders to add a glossiness texture.
  • Apply a metal material preset to the teeth for that iconic chrome look. Don’t forget to tweak the inner mouth teeth as well!

Step 5: Adjust Model Scale and Rotation

  • Back in After Effects, increase the World Transform Scale to properly size the xenomorph.
  • Adjust the rotation so the xenomorph faces the camera.

Step 6: Add Camera and Animate the Xenomorph

  • Add a camera to the scene with a longer lens for a more cinematic look.
  • Since Element 3D doesn’t support rigging, we’ll use deformation for subtle movements:
    • In Group 1, go to Particle Look > Deform > Twist and Bend.
    • Enable deformation and keyframe subtle movements by adjusting twist and bend values.

Step 7: Lighting the Xenomorph

  • Add a strong Point Light to the back left, aimed to highlight the xenomorph's head and side.
  • Duplicate the light and place more around the model, adjusting strength and color for variation.
  • Keyframe an orange light to gradually brighten toward the xenomorph's mouth during the animation.
  • If some textures appear too bright (like the mouth), edit them in Photoshop, then re-import them into Element 3D.

Step 8: Add Shadows and Ambient Occlusion

  • Enable Shadows in Element 3D for your main spotlight.
  • Add Ambient Occlusion to introduce more realistic shading.
  • Tweak settings for fog and depth to control how light interacts with the environment.

Step 9: Create a Bumpy Surface for Extra Detail

  • Duplicate the Element 3D solid and adjust the normal map to use a bumpy texture from Pro Shaders.
  • Lower the glossiness and boost reflectivity to introduce surface variation.
  • Set this layer to lighten blending mode to combine with the main xenomorph layer.

Step 10: Add a Background Environment

  • Import a warehouse stock photo (found on sites like Pexels) as the background.
  • Make it a 3D layer and adjust the scale, position, and rotation to match the xenomorph.
  • Use Lens Blur and adjust the focus distance for shallow depth of field.

Step 11: Add Volumetric Effects and Haze

  • Create solid layers for light haze, using Element 3D depth layers as Luma Mats.
  • Tweak opacity and scale to get a soft haze effect, keyframing it to match light flashes.
  • Duplicate the haze layer and adjust for different areas of the frame, changing tint to orange for warm lighting.

Step 12: Smoke and Atmosphere

  • Add smoke stock footage beneath and above the xenomorph. Set the blending mode to Screen.
  • Use masks to control where the smoke appears and blend it with the scene.
  • Color the smoke using Curves for atmospheric consistency.

Step 13: Add Slime

  • Slime is crucial for a xenomorph shot! Use slime assets from stock footage packs.
  • Apply slime to areas like the Dome and mouth using Mocha Pro for mesh tracking.
  • For other slime elements, use 2D tracks and set them to screen or overlay. Use displacement maps to give the slime more depth.

Step 14: Final Touches

  • Add an out-of-focus foreground object like a railing to add depth.
  • Apply Optical Glow and introduce subtle camera shake for realism.
  • Color-grade the shot using Curves and finish with Film Convert for a grainy, cinematic look.
  • Optionally, you can experiment with an alternate grade to create an 80s-inspired blue tint, giving the scene a retro sci-fi feel.
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