How to Export Transparent Video in After Effects (3 Steps)

Need to export a video with no background in After Effects? Whether you're working on motion graphics or logo animations, transparency is key when layering visuals. The trick is using the right codec and render settings.

This method works for overlays, lower thirds, animated titles, or anything else that needs a clean alpha channel. I’ve used this process for years across client projects and YouTube content, and it’s reliable every time.

Here’s how to do it.

1. Set up your composition with transparency

Before exporting, make sure your composition actually includes transparency.

• In the Composition panel, click the Toggle Transparency Grid button (it looks like a checkerboard).
• If you see a checkerboard pattern behind your objects, that means there’s no solid background.
• Avoid adding any solid color layers unless you need them.

If you accidentally added a black or white background layer, delete or hide it before exporting.

2. Choose the right export settings

After Effects doesn’t export directly with transparency by default. You’ll need to use QuickTime format with a codec that supports alpha channels.

Here’s how:

1. Go to File > Export > Add to Render Queue
2. In the Render Queue panel, click Output Module
3. Set Format to QuickTime
4. Under Video Output, click Format Options
5. Choose Apple ProRes 4444 or Animation codec (both support alpha channels)
6. Under Channels, select RGB + Alpha
7. Make sure Color is set to Straight (Unmatted)

Then choose your output location and filename.

3. Render and test your transparent video

Click Render in the Render Queue panel. Once it finishes:

1. Open the file in Premiere Pro or any editing software that supports alpha channels
2. Drop it over another clip or background
3. If everything worked correctly, only your animation will appear and the rest will be transparent

If you see a black background instead of transparency, double-check that you selected “RGB + Alpha” and used a codec that supports it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I export video with transparent background?

To export with transparency in After Effects:

1. Use QuickTime format
2. Choose Apple ProRes 4444 or Animation codec
3. Set Channels to RGB + Alpha
4. Set Color to Straight (Unmatted)
5. Render from the Render Queue

How do I remove the background of a video in After Effects?

Use one of these methods:

1. For green screen: apply Keylight effect under Effects > Keying
2. For solid backgrounds: try Rotobrush tool for isolating subjects
3. Mask manually if needed using Pen Tool

How do you make transparency in After Effects?

To create transparency:

1. Avoid solid backgrounds
2. Use layers with alpha (like PNGs)
3. Toggle Transparency Grid to preview
4. Use effects like Keylight or Rotobrush for cutouts

How do I export a transparent file?

In After Effects:

1. Add comp to Render Queue
2. Set Format to QuickTime
3. Choose Apple ProRes 4444 or Animation codec
4. Select RGB + Alpha under Channels
5. Click Render

This preserves the alpha channel for transparency use elsewhere.

Failing to use RGB + Alpha or choosing the wrong codec is usually what causes black backgrounds after export. Stick with ProRes 4444 or Animation for best results across platforms like Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.