How to Open and Customize After Effects Templates (AEP)

Understanding After Effects Template Hierarchy

When you download an After Effects template, the ZIP archive typically contains:

• .aep project file (e.g. CC 2024, CC 2020)
• A "Tutorial" or "Help" PDF/video
• Footage or assets folder

Step 1: Open the Project File

Launch Adobe After Effects and choose File > Open Project. Select the template's .aep file. If prompted with a "Font Missing" dialog, note the font names so you can download them.

Step 2: Locate the Edit / Placeholders Folder

In the Project Panel (usually on the left), look for organized folders named 01. EDIT HERE, Placeholders, or Text Compositions.

Double-click each composition to open it in your timeline:

• Double-click text layers to type your custom headings.
• Drag your video clips or photos into the footage placeholder compositions.

Step 3: Render Your Final Video

Locate the Render Comp or Final Output composition. Go to Composition > Add to Adobe Media Encoder Queue. Choose H.264 (MP4) for web sharing or ProRes 422 for maximum master quality.