If the reflection covers your text, change the blend style to "Behind Original" .
Step 1: Create Text Layer ---> Step 2: Apply VC Reflect ---> Step 3: Set Center & Falloff ---> Step 4: Add Blur Step 1: Layer Preparation
The Ultimate Guide to the VC Reflect Plugin: Creating Flawless Reflections in After Effects
Create a new composition and add your text layer or logo asset. Position it in the upper-middle section of your frame to leave room for the reflection below. Step 2: Apply VC Reflect
: Softens the reflection to simulate different surfaces like wood or brushed metal. 4. Pros & Alternatives vc reflect plugin
If you are applying VC Reflect to an asset that contains multiple animated elements, pre-compose those layers first. Apply VC Reflect directly to the . This ensures that the plugin treats the entire animated scene as a single unified object, preventing clipping or alignment glitches. 3. Creating Floor Textures with Displacement Maps
If your reflection clips at the edge of the layer boundary, your layer size is too small.
by Video Copilot has been a staple for over a decade for one reason: simplicity. While it doesn't handle complex 3D perspectives or "bending" reflections like newer paid plugins, its speed for standard 2D work is unmatched. Why I still use it:
VC Reflect is primarily a 2D effect. If you turn on the 3D switch for a layer and rotate it along the X or Y axis, the reflection may separate or look distorted. If the reflection covers your text, change the
Watch these tutorials to master the VC Reflect plugin, from installation to advanced reflection techniques:
What are you reflecting? (e.g., text, 3D logos, phone mockups, or green screen footage)
You can download the plugin and watch the original walkthrough by Andrew Kramer on the official Video Copilot blog technical guide on how to use it with 3D cameras, or are you looking for creative ways to use it for shadows?
I can provide specific design tips and effect combinations tailored to your project. Share public link Step 2: Apply VC Reflect : Softens the
Getting VC Reflect up and running is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a smooth installation:
: Easily adjust where the reflection begins relative to the object. Fall-off Controls
Unlike traditional delays that merely repeat the signal, VC Reflect focuses on character . It emulates the natural degradation of analog circuits, where each echo loses a bit of high-end fidelity, adds a touch of saturation, and drifts slightly out of pitch—just like vintage hardware.