Unleash Creativity with Sony Vegas Pro 11: Text Media Generator

Unleash Creativity with Sony Vegas Pro 11: Text Media Generator

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Accessing the Text Media Generator
3. Changing Fonts
4. Adjusting Text Color
5. Animation Options
6. Scaling and Moving Text
7. Using Alpha Channel for Transparency
8. Tracking and Line Spacing
9. Adding Text Outline
10. Applying Text Shadow
11. Controlling Animation Effects
12. Conclusion

Article: A Beginner's Guide to Using the Text Media Generator in Sony Vegas Pro 11

Introduction

Welcome to part three of my beginner series for Sony Vegas Pro 11. In this tutorial, I will be showing you some of the options that the Text Media Generator comes with in Vegas Pro 11. The Text Media Generator is a powerful tool that allows you to add and customize text in your videos. In this article, we will explore how to access the generator and utilize its various features to enhance your video projects.

Accessing the Text Media Generator

To access the Text Media Generator, right-click on the timeline and insert a new video track. Next, go to "Insert" and click on "Text Media." In Vegas Pro 11, there are notable differences compared to the previous version of the generator. One improvement is the ability to scale down or move the text around on the preview screen without opening the Text Media Generator window.

Changing Fonts

Changing fonts in the Text Media Generator is simple. Click on the drop-down menu to select different fonts. However, make sure to highlight the text before changing the font. An exciting feature of Sony Vegas Pro 11 is the ability to change multiple fonts within the same text window. By highlighting specific letters or text and then changing the font, you can create dynamic and eye-catching typography.

Adjusting Text Color

Changing the text color is self-explanatory. Move the cursor to adjust the color by dragging it around. There is also a color shader that allows you to explore different color options. Additionally, there is an advanced option that will be explained later in the article.

Animation Options

The Text Media Generator in Pro 11 introduces animation options. By selecting an animation, the text will animate when played through. The duration of the animation depends on the duration of the text media generator. You can extend the duration by dragging out the generator or shorten it by adjusting the length. You can also create breaks between animations by going past the 10-second mark.

Scaling and Moving Text

To scale the text, click on the TV screen, and drag the boxes to adjust the size. To move the text around, click and hold the cursor on the location option, then drag it to your desired position. This can also be done on the TV preview screen.

Using Alpha Channel for Transparency

The Text Media Generator in Pro 11 introduces the alpha channel feature. The alpha channel allows you to have transparent text or background. By default, the text is set to an alpha channel. To change the background color, adjust the scroll option. Placing an image at the bottom of the text track will create transparent text.

Tracking and Line Spacing

Tracking refers to the spacing between individual letters in your text. Increase the tracking to widen the space between letters and decrease it to tighten the spacing. If you have two lines of text, increasing the line spacing will adjust the distance between the lines.

Adding Text Outline

The Text Media Generator allows you to add an outline to your text. Increasing the outline width will add a colored outline around the existing text. You can customize the outline color by clicking on the color box and selecting your desired shade.

Applying Text Shadow

To add a shadow to your text, enable the shadow option. This will generate a shadow according to your text. You can adjust the shadow's color, location, and blur to achieve your desired effect.

Controlling Animation Effects

While the Text Media Generator has animation options, it's important to note that you cannot control the speed of the animations directly. However, you can control the animation of various components by utilizing keyframes. Keyframes allow you to change specific properties, such as text color, at different points in time. By adding keyframes and adjusting their positions, you can create customized animation effects.

Conclusion

Mastering the Text Media Generator in Sony Vegas Pro 11 opens up endless possibilities for creating visually appealing videos. From changing fonts and colors to adding animations and effects, this tool allows you to elevate your video projects to the next level. Experiment with different options and explore the creative potential of the Text Media Generator.

Highlights:

• Access and utilize the Text Media Generator in Sony Vegas Pro 11
• Change fonts and highlight specific letters or text for enhanced typography
• Adjust text color using the color shader
• Apply animations and adjust their duration
• Scale, move, and manipulate text on the preview screen
• Utilize the alpha channel for transparent text or backgrounds
• Customize tracking and line spacing
• Add outlines and shadows to text
• Control animation effects using keyframes

FAQ:

Q: Can I use different fonts within the same text window? A: Yes, Sony Vegas Pro 11 allows you to change the font for specific parts of the text within the same window.

Q: Can I create transparent text? A: Yes, by utilizing the alpha channel feature and placing an image at the bottom of the text track, you can achieve transparent text.

Q: Is it possible to control the speed of the animations? A: While you cannot directly control the speed of the animations, you can utilize keyframes to create customized animation effects at different points in time.