Broadcast graphics, also known as television graphics, are 2‑D visual elements crafted specifically for on‑air presentation. These include studio title cards, illustrations, maps, charts, and even 3‑D‑styled animations. By pairing striking visuals with factual content—news, sports, weather—broadcast graphics enhance viewer comprehension and retention, making complex information accessible even on tight budgets.
Getting Started: How to Create a Broadcast Graphic
If you’re new to broadcast graphics, the learning curve can feel steep. The following steps break the process into manageable stages, guiding you from composition setup to final export.
Step 1: Set Up Compositions in the Essential Graphics Panel
Begin by selecting the Master composition you wish to edit. Open it in the Essential Graphics panel via:
- Composition > Open in Essential Graphics
- Right‑click a composition in the Project panel and choose Open in Essential Graphics
- Use the Master menu in the panel to load any composition in your project
The panel’s Master composition allows you to expose supported properties and those of nested compositions, making them accessible for styling and animation.
Step 2: Add Text Layers
Create titles with the Type tool in the Program Monitor or via Graphics Menu > New Layer > Text.
Step 3: Swap Fonts Across the Project
To change fonts consistently, use the Replace Fonts in Projects command. This updates all text layers simultaneously, saving time on multi‑layer graphics.
Step 4: Build Shape Layers
Utilize the Pen, Rectangle, Ellipse, and Polygon tools to craft custom shapes and paths.
Step 5: Align and Distribute Layers
The Essential Graphics panel offers alignment options—top, center, bottom, left, right edges—and distribution for both vertical and horizontal layouts.
Step 6: Group Layers for Clarity
Grouping text and shape layers keeps the Edit tab organized and facilitates complex masking or animation sequences.
Step 7: Rename Layers for Workflow Efficiency
Inline name editing is available directly within the panel, allowing quick reference to shapes and clip layers.
Step 8: Create and Apply Styles
Styles (formerly Master Styles) let you set font, color, and size. Apply a style to any text or graphic layer to propagate changes across all instances.
Step 9: Add Multiple Shadows
Layering shadows on a single element can create depth and visual interest, enhancing the overall polish.
Step 10: Animate Your Layers
Keyframe text, shape, and path properties either directly in the Essential Graphics panel or via the Effect Controls panel to animate your broadcast graphics.
Step 11: Export as a Motion Graphics Template
Save your finished graphic for reuse: Graphics > Motion Graphics Template > Export, or right‑click the clip in the timeline and choose Export as Motion Graphics Template.
Step 12: Implement the Template in Your Video
Insert the exported template into any After Effects or Premiere project. Adjust parameters in real time to match your footage.
An Alternative: Create Broadcast Graphics Online with FlexClip
For those who prefer a cost‑effective, cloud‑based solution, FlexClip offers a robust suite of broadcast‑style templates. With an intuitive drag‑and‑drop interface, users can:
- Access thousands of ready‑made animations, transitions, and filters
- Choose from categories such as birthdays, business, sports, and more
- Export videos in multiple aspect ratios suitable for television and online platforms
FlexClip’s free tier provides ample resources, while the paid plans unlock premium assets and higher resolution exports.
Bottom Line
Whether you use After Effects for full creative control or FlexClip for rapid deployment, broadcast graphics can elevate your video content. Try these tools today to produce engaging, professional‑looking visuals that capture your audience’s attention.
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As video editors and marketers, we’re committed to sharing practical tips that help you create standout broadcast graphics effortlessly.