Hey all,

I've got a couple of quick things...

First thing, After Effects Toronto has launched a new website - AETO.ca.  We'll be posting all of our news, info about upcoming events, and we'll have an AETO newsletter that will recap our meeting contents and give you news on new events, deals, and more!

And here's the part I've been excited to report - THE FIRST AETO 5-SECOND COMP CHALLENGE!!!!

Ever wanted to create a little clip just for fun, but aren't sure what to what to create?  Well, AETO has the solution!

Here's the deal - create a cool 5-second After Effects composition using AETO as the theme, and send it in to us.  Use these settings: 720 x 480, square pixels, 29.97 fps, and that's it!  If you've got footage/images, make sure you own it first, then collect the files with the project file, zip em up and send them in.  Otherwise, if there is nothing but a project file, send that.  If it's easier, you can also send me a rendered clip. 

Send your clips/project files in to info@aeto.ca, or if that doesn't work, russfairley@yahoo.com

We're going to compile the clips into two similar videos - one that credits the artists as it runs, and another that just shows your awesome work - which will be used as the feature image on AETO.ca's homepage!  My band is writing some killer music to play under the compilation, so it'll be a multimedia extravaganza! 

The big thing here, is that this is for everybody - if you're a beginner, send in a clip - if you're an advanced user, send in a clip.  As long as it's 5 seconds, 720x480 with square pixels and 29.97fps.  Another thing to point out, is that each of the AETO chairpersons will be submitting a 5 second clip as well.

We can't wait to see what everybody comes up with, and this will be the first of many AETO compilation videos!

Please note - by sending in your clips you're granting us the rights to use your clip in this compilation, which will be featured on our website and possibly played at our events.  We won't use it for anything else, unless you want us to!

Send in your questions, and let's get this party started!

- Russ