![after effects image drop shadow after effects image drop shadow](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/BeS1YPEo74M/maxresdefault.jpg)
We’re going to use a simple shape to track matte some text as it slides down and “reveals” itself in the composition. You should end up with an After Effects Track Matte folder. After the download has finished, be sure to unzip the file if it hasn’t been done for you.This is particularly useful in revealing graphics, as we’ll see later in this tutorial. If you use a track matte, no matter where you move your layer, the track matte stays in place.
![after effects image drop shadow after effects image drop shadow](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/BXvkoaO39KU/maxresdefault.jpg)
What that means for you is that if you put a mask onto a layer, then move the layer, the mask goes with it. Now, you might be asking, why not use a mask? Here’s the main difference: Track mattes are not layer dependent, masks are. You want a picture of a flower placed in your text? Or a graphic to hide your video clip until you want it to be revealed? Track mattes are your friend. Simply put, you can shape a particular layer using the appearance of a track matte above it. Track mattes are a fun and powerful tool in After Effects that allows you to use a clip, still image, or text to dictate the transparency of the layer beneath. Users are encouraged to further their knowledge and skills in After Effects and Video Editing by enrolling in specific courses offered by Noble Desktop.Adding effects such as Drop Shadow and creating a vignette to frame the animation are thoroughly explained, allowing users to enhance their projects visually.Animating and using a Track Matte are explained in detail, introducing users to a simple technique that opens up a multitude of options for animation projects.The tutorial includes a dedicated section on how to use transparency, demonstrating how to create a precomp to organize layers and make animation easier.
![after effects image drop shadow after effects image drop shadow](https://www.trainingconnection.com/images/Lessons/After-Effects/000_Header.jpg)