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How to Make Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Ken Burns Effect is an advanced feature of Final Cut Pro that allows users to add creative animations to their videos and images within minutes. You just need to select your picture, add movements to the clip, and choose the start and the end position to produce high-resolution stills. Besides, you can do a tilt, zoom in, a pan, or a combination of these three moves on a single image. This way, you can use the Ken Burns Effect to highlight the stimulating features in your photograph and save your memories in the form of innovative and high-definition animated clips.

This article introduces the readers to Final Cut Pro and explains how to add the Ken Burns Effect in 8 simple steps.

Part 1: How to Make a Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?[detaied steps]
Part 2: How to add the Ken Burns Effect to Multiple Camera Movements?
Extensive Reading: Why Ken Burns Effect is Named after Ken Burns?

Part 1: How to Make a Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?

Final Cut Pro is user-friendly software and makes it easy for you to create a Ken Burns Effect without having advanced skills and expertise. So, are you interested in knowing the best part? Given below are a few simple steps to create Ken Burns Effect and make your pictures and videos look adorable.

Step 1: Add Images to the Timeline

First of all, you should specify a name for your project and add photos to the timeline in Final Cut Pro. For this purpose, select multiple photos and press E. A clip will be added to the timeline as shown in figure 1.

Step 2: Check Your Settings

As you can see, our timeline has no other video clip. Hence, Final Cut Pro will not recognize the clip until you adjust the video properties such as format, resolution, and rate, etc. For this purpose, click OK to use your preferred settings and press Shift + Z to fit the picture to your timeline window. Once you’re done it’s time to apply the Ken Burns Effect.

Step 3: Add the Ken Burns Effect

The Ken Burns Effect is used to focus on specific parts of an image and bring motionless content in to provoke emotional reactions. Follow these steps to add the Ken Burns Effect:

Select the clip or picture;
See the lower left of the viewer;
Go to the Viewer window using the drop-down menu;
Tap on the pop-up menu located in the bottom left-hand corner;
Choose the Crop option from the menu or press Shift + C;
Press the Ken Burns button in the Crop onscreen controls to add the effect; and
Finally, notice the start frame and the end frame controls.

Step 4: Customize Your Effect

In the Ken Burns display, you can see the controls for adjusting the panning and zooms effects by changing the size and position of two-colored rectangles overlaying on the clip. To customize the Ken Burns effect:

Adjust the green rectangle’s size and position to set the start position;
Adjust the red rectangle’s size and position to set the end position;
The arrow depicts the direction of camera position between start and end position;
In the top left-hand corner, click on the Swap button to exchange the two positions as per your requirements;
You can see the preview of the animation on the screen.

Step 5: Add a Freeze Frame

You’re not done yet because you need to hold your picture at the end of the animation. For this purpose, you should create a freezing frame at the end of the clip to make Ken Burns do this. Here’s the deal:

Press the Down arrow followed by the Left arrow to go to the last frame;
Press Option-F to add a freeze-frame;
Make sure that your added frame matches the ending frame of the Ken Burns Effect.

Step 6: Adjust the Duration of the Freeze Frame

The users can also adjust the speed of the animation and the duration of the freeze-frame by trimming your clip. For this purpose, trim the length as per your requirement and it will optimize the speed as shown in figure 6.

Step 7: Swap the Start and End Frame

Now, swap the start and ending frame as per your preference for the Ken Burns animation. Here’s how you can do this:

Click on the Swap button;
The start frame will match the still frame (previous one);
Grab the end frame and move it to your desired position;
Apply enough zoom in to make the black areas disappear;
Preview to see how your animation looks.

Step 8: Play/Preview Looping

After you have optimized the speed of the Ken Burns Effect by trimming the clip’s length and have widened the shot to include everyone, it’s time to preview the changes you have made. Given below are simple steps:

Press the Play Loop button;
Tap on the Pause icon and return to editing;
Click Done and enjoy your animation.

Seems a little complicated? Filmora allows users to do Ken Burns effect, or pan and zoom effect, in much easier steps, click to download and have a try!

Part 2: How to add the Ken Burns Effect to Multiple Camera Movements?

Although you can apply a single Ken Burns movement to your image, you can still give the impression of multiple movements being used. This means the Ken Burns Effect can be added to multiple camera movements by duplicating the photo and building numerous movements in sequence.

Add the first camera movement to your image;
Duplicate the clip by click and drag option or copy and paste option;
Press the Swap button in the Ken Burns settings to reverse the start and end positions;
Verify if multiple camera movements have been added.

Extensive Reading: Why Ken Burns Effect is Named after Ken Burns?

What is the Ken Burns Effect?

The Ken Burns Effect is a feature in Final Cut Pro to create a pan and zoom effect by using your predefined start and end positions. Basically, it is a crop effect with one crop at the start of the clip while the other at the end. Ken Burns Effect can be further customized by adjusting the smoothness of the animation. While creating a Ken Burns Effect, the motion applied to the video clips gets automatically smoothed to accelerate and decelerate the movement slowly at the start and the end of the animation.

Why the Effect is named after Ken Burns?

Now, as you have learned the purpose of the Ken Burns Effect, you must be curious about its name. It is named after American documentarian Ken Burns, who is known for his instantly recognizable and highly influential visual aesthetic. Surprisingly, Ken Burns did not invent this Ken Burns Effect; rather, it has existed for decades. You might be wondering why the technique was then named after Ken Burns. This was due to the persistent and adroit use of this technique that it is now known as the Ken Burns Effect.

What are the Applications of Ken Burns Effect?

Primarily, the Ken Burns Effect is used due to the unavailability of a film or video. The technique gives action to still photographs to glorify the subjects of interest like couples in wedding photography. It gets better and better as you apply simulated parallax with Ken Burns Effect to make your 2D images appear as 3D plus advanced zooming visuals. You can also use the Ken Burns effect to make a video of your graduation ceremony pictures or memorable moments of reunion. Ken Burns Effect is also used in documentaries by professional filmmakers and editors.

Conclusion

Adding animated effects to your pictures and videos makes them look gorgeous. This is crazy, isn’t it, when you impress your peers with your editing skills. So, what’s the bottom line of this whole discussion? Try adding the Ken Burns Effect with Final Cut Pro to create a pan and zoom effect on your pictures and clips get the output in your desired format.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

This article introduces the readers to Final Cut Pro and explains how to add the Ken Burns Effect in 8 simple steps.

Part 1: How to Make a Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?[detaied steps]
Part 2: How to add the Ken Burns Effect to Multiple Camera Movements?
Extensive Reading: Why Ken Burns Effect is Named after Ken Burns?

Part 1: How to Make a Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?

Step 1: Add Images to the Timeline

Step 2: Check Your Settings

Step 3: Add the Ken Burns Effect

The Ken Burns Effect is used to focus on specific parts of an image and bring motionless content in to provoke emotional reactions. Follow these steps to add the Ken Burns Effect:

Select the clip or picture;
See the lower left of the viewer;
Go to the Viewer window using the drop-down menu;
Tap on the pop-up menu located in the bottom left-hand corner;
Choose the Crop option from the menu or press Shift + C;
Press the Ken Burns button in the Crop onscreen controls to add the effect; and
Finally, notice the start frame and the end frame controls.

Step 4: Customize Your Effect

Adjust the green rectangle’s size and position to set the start position;
Adjust the red rectangle’s size and position to set the end position;
The arrow depicts the direction of camera position between start and end position;
In the top left-hand corner, click on the Swap button to exchange the two positions as per your requirements;
You can see the preview of the animation on the screen.

Step 5: Add a Freeze Frame

Press the Down arrow followed by the Left arrow to go to the last frame;
Press Option-F to add a freeze-frame;
Make sure that your added frame matches the ending frame of the Ken Burns Effect.

Step 6: Adjust the Duration of the Freeze Frame

Step 7: Swap the Start and End Frame

Now, swap the start and ending frame as per your preference for the Ken Burns animation. Here’s how you can do this:

Click on the Swap button;
The start frame will match the still frame (previous one);
Grab the end frame and move it to your desired position;
Apply enough zoom in to make the black areas disappear;
Preview to see how your animation looks.

Step 8: Play/Preview Looping

Press the Play Loop button;
Tap on the Pause icon and return to editing;
Click Done and enjoy your animation.

Seems a little complicated? Filmora allows users to do Ken Burns effect, or pan and zoom effect, in much easier steps, click to download and have a try!

Part 2: How to add the Ken Burns Effect to Multiple Camera Movements?

Add the first camera movement to your image;
Duplicate the clip by click and drag option or copy and paste option;
Press the Swap button in the Ken Burns settings to reverse the start and end positions;
Verify if multiple camera movements have been added.

Extensive Reading: Why Ken Burns Effect is Named after Ken Burns?

What is the Ken Burns Effect?

Why the Effect is named after Ken Burns?

What are the Applications of Ken Burns Effect?

Conclusion

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

This article introduces the readers to Final Cut Pro and explains how to add the Ken Burns Effect in 8 simple steps.

Part 1: How to Make a Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?[detaied steps]
Part 2: How to add the Ken Burns Effect to Multiple Camera Movements?
Extensive Reading: Why Ken Burns Effect is Named after Ken Burns?

Part 1: How to Make a Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?

Step 1: Add Images to the Timeline

Step 2: Check Your Settings

Step 3: Add the Ken Burns Effect

The Ken Burns Effect is used to focus on specific parts of an image and bring motionless content in to provoke emotional reactions. Follow these steps to add the Ken Burns Effect:

Select the clip or picture;
See the lower left of the viewer;
Go to the Viewer window using the drop-down menu;
Tap on the pop-up menu located in the bottom left-hand corner;
Choose the Crop option from the menu or press Shift + C;
Press the Ken Burns button in the Crop onscreen controls to add the effect; and
Finally, notice the start frame and the end frame controls.

Step 4: Customize Your Effect

Adjust the green rectangle’s size and position to set the start position;
Adjust the red rectangle’s size and position to set the end position;
The arrow depicts the direction of camera position between start and end position;
In the top left-hand corner, click on the Swap button to exchange the two positions as per your requirements;
You can see the preview of the animation on the screen.

Step 5: Add a Freeze Frame

Press the Down arrow followed by the Left arrow to go to the last frame;
Press Option-F to add a freeze-frame;
Make sure that your added frame matches the ending frame of the Ken Burns Effect.

Step 6: Adjust the Duration of the Freeze Frame

Step 7: Swap the Start and End Frame

Now, swap the start and ending frame as per your preference for the Ken Burns animation. Here’s how you can do this:

Click on the Swap button;
The start frame will match the still frame (previous one);
Grab the end frame and move it to your desired position;
Apply enough zoom in to make the black areas disappear;
Preview to see how your animation looks.

Step 8: Play/Preview Looping

Press the Play Loop button;
Tap on the Pause icon and return to editing;
Click Done and enjoy your animation.

Seems a little complicated? Filmora allows users to do Ken Burns effect, or pan and zoom effect, in much easier steps, click to download and have a try!

Part 2: How to add the Ken Burns Effect to Multiple Camera Movements?

Add the first camera movement to your image;
Duplicate the clip by click and drag option or copy and paste option;
Press the Swap button in the Ken Burns settings to reverse the start and end positions;
Verify if multiple camera movements have been added.

Extensive Reading: Why Ken Burns Effect is Named after Ken Burns?

What is the Ken Burns Effect?

Why the Effect is named after Ken Burns?

What are the Applications of Ken Burns Effect?

Conclusion

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

This article introduces the readers to Final Cut Pro and explains how to add the Ken Burns Effect in 8 simple steps.

Part 1: How to Make a Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?[detaied steps]
Part 2: How to add the Ken Burns Effect to Multiple Camera Movements?
Extensive Reading: Why Ken Burns Effect is Named after Ken Burns?

Part 1: How to Make a Ken Burns Effect in Final Cut Pro?

Step 1: Add Images to the Timeline

Step 2: Check Your Settings

Step 3: Add the Ken Burns Effect

The Ken Burns Effect is used to focus on specific parts of an image and bring motionless content in to provoke emotional reactions. Follow these steps to add the Ken Burns Effect:

Select the clip or picture;
See the lower left of the viewer;
Go to the Viewer window using the drop-down menu;
Tap on the pop-up menu located in the bottom left-hand corner;
Choose the Crop option from the menu or press Shift + C;
Press the Ken Burns button in the Crop onscreen controls to add the effect; and
Finally, notice the start frame and the end frame controls.

Step 4: Customize Your Effect

Adjust the green rectangle’s size and position to set the start position;
Adjust the red rectangle’s size and position to set the end position;
The arrow depicts the direction of camera position between start and end position;
In the top left-hand corner, click on the Swap button to exchange the two positions as per your requirements;
You can see the preview of the animation on the screen.

Step 5: Add a Freeze Frame

Press the Down arrow followed by the Left arrow to go to the last frame;
Press Option-F to add a freeze-frame;
Make sure that your added frame matches the ending frame of the Ken Burns Effect.

Step 6: Adjust the Duration of the Freeze Frame

Step 7: Swap the Start and End Frame

Now, swap the start and ending frame as per your preference for the Ken Burns animation. Here’s how you can do this:

Click on the Swap button;
The start frame will match the still frame (previous one);
Grab the end frame and move it to your desired position;
Apply enough zoom in to make the black areas disappear;
Preview to see how your animation looks.

Step 8: Play/Preview Looping

Press the Play Loop button;
Tap on the Pause icon and return to editing;
Click Done and enjoy your animation.

Seems a little complicated? Filmora allows users to do Ken Burns effect, or pan and zoom effect, in much easier steps, click to download and have a try!

Part 2: How to add the Ken Burns Effect to Multiple Camera Movements?

Add the first camera movement to your image;
Duplicate the clip by click and drag option or copy and paste option;
Press the Swap button in the Ken Burns settings to reverse the start and end positions;
Verify if multiple camera movements have been added.

Extensive Reading: Why Ken Burns Effect is Named after Ken Burns?

What is the Ken Burns Effect?

Why the Effect is named after Ken Burns?

What are the Applications of Ken Burns Effect?

Conclusion

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

The Animator’s Toolkit: Essential Software for Mac and PC

Professional Animation Software: 8 Best Creator for Mac and Windows

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

If you are not satisfied with some free animation options available on Windows and Mac, you may need to invest some money in a great program.

Those who want their animations to have a professional quality will need to find professional animation software. It will let you make a professional animated video to your heart’s content.

While these programs do come with an upfront cost, you are paying for the best features, troubleshooting, support, and graphical quality.

Those who create animation for business reasons will have much use for such software. Here are 8 of the best professional animation software options for Windows and Mac.

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac
Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

The beauty of blender is that it is a free program that still gives you all the features you would expect from a professional package.

It is a free, open-source and one of the best options for 3D animating. Whether you want to model, rig, animate, simulate, map, render or motion tracking, you can do it with Blender

Features:

The rendering, modeling, and animation features are top of the line. They are comparable with expensive software.
You have the ability to create VFX, simulations, and integrate pipeline tools.
You can create games, edit videos, and create scripts all within the program.

2. ZBrush

Hoping to create high-class 3D objects that are going to wow your audience? If you need to create 3D objects for a business video or to promote your personal brand, ZBrush is a terrific option.

It has some of the best features for digital sculpting that you will find in any program.

Features:

Unlike other programs, you are not restricted by polygon distribution. Sculpt all you want!
Options for single user or volume licenses - useful for businesses!
Rated as one of the best programs for sculpting in 2018.

3. Maya

Maya is one of the top options for 3D animation, modeling, rendering, and simulation. It works with all modern Mac computers and will allow you to create animations, terrains, backgrounds, motion graphics, and VR content.

Features:

The UV editor interface is very intuitive and easy to use. It also gives you so many options through the UV Toolkit. Editing your animations has never been easier.
It comes with a clump modifier that lets you interactively groom your animations.
Features a link to Adobe After Effects so you can make adjustments on the fly.

4. Harmony

Harmony is a professional 2D subscription-based software that will allow you to create animations and backgrounds with ease.

Whether you want to animate, render, or simulate different graphics and backgrounds, you can get it all done with Harmony. It is fully compatible with Macs.

Features:

Three subscription options: Premium, Advanced, and Essentials.
Essential feature vector drawing, while the other two also include Bitmap.
Render quality can go from HD to 8K depending on your subscription.
Includes recoloring, rotoscoping, advanced vector pencil lines, multiplayer, and 3D environment support.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

Want to design interactive vector animations? Whether you are hoping to use them for games, apps, or your website, you can create them using Adobe Animate CC.

With the might of Adobe, you know that you are getting a quality product that will get frequent updates and enhancements.

Features:

Some newer enhancements include the ability to layer depth and add camera enhancements.
Advanced code wizard allows you to add actions to events using the HTML5 canvas.
The Animation Timeline is more powerful than ever. You can also use presets for managing the speed of your animations.
HiDPI support.

2. Poser Pro

The best tool for a digital artist who wants to create 3D character animations and illustrations, the Poser Pro 11.1 is available for a one-time purchase.

It may not be necessary for beginners to spend big money on animation software.

But professionals who want the best quality characters and background will be delighted with the features on offer.

Features:

SuperFly delivers the power of physically based rendering to Poser. You can render light in the way that it is meant to look.
The Realtime Comic Book preview feature is even better on this version of the program. Now you can get full access to your animations, while you can edit them using the convenient toolbars.
The actor selection feature makes it so easy to go back and forth between the different characters you create.

3. DigiCel FlipBook

Beginners who are struggling to understand some features of other programs will love FlipBook.

It is the simplest 2D animation software you will find online. But the best part is that despite its simplicity, it gives you the power and flexibility of other programs.

Features:

Drawing, scanning, importing, and painting is very easy with this program.
The intuitive interface means that if you want to make changes to your animations, you can do it within minutes.
Using it with a tablet is very helpful, as you can draw straight onto the program.
Add music and sync it with your animations.

4. iClone

Touted as the fastest 3D-animation software available, iClone will let you produce animations that have a professional quality, but you can do it in a quick time. When you have a deadline, or you need to render many images, this program is so useful.

Features:

Advanced tools that allow you to curve edit, incorporate PhysX simulating, and create organic morphs.
Delivers artistic real-time 3D visuals.
Unlimited plugin expansion and support.
On-demand community content and accessories.

Conclusion

With the above eight programs, you may many options when you make professional animated videos. You can create high-quality 3D background, terrain, objects, and characters.

And when you are finished with your animations, you may be thinking about editing the files or creating a larger story out of them.

Using Filmora will help you a lot with the editing process. It is an all-in-one video and animation file editor for both Windows and Mac computers.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

If you are not satisfied with some free animation options available on Windows and Mac, you may need to invest some money in a great program.

Those who want their animations to have a professional quality will need to find professional animation software. It will let you make a professional animated video to your heart’s content.

While these programs do come with an upfront cost, you are paying for the best features, troubleshooting, support, and graphical quality.

Those who create animation for business reasons will have much use for such software. Here are 8 of the best professional animation software options for Windows and Mac.

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac
Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

The beauty of blender is that it is a free program that still gives you all the features you would expect from a professional package.

It is a free, open-source and one of the best options for 3D animating. Whether you want to model, rig, animate, simulate, map, render or motion tracking, you can do it with Blender

Features:

The rendering, modeling, and animation features are top of the line. They are comparable with expensive software.
You have the ability to create VFX, simulations, and integrate pipeline tools.
You can create games, edit videos, and create scripts all within the program.

2. ZBrush

Hoping to create high-class 3D objects that are going to wow your audience? If you need to create 3D objects for a business video or to promote your personal brand, ZBrush is a terrific option.

It has some of the best features for digital sculpting that you will find in any program.

Features:

Unlike other programs, you are not restricted by polygon distribution. Sculpt all you want!
Options for single user or volume licenses - useful for businesses!
Rated as one of the best programs for sculpting in 2018.

3. Maya

Features:

The UV editor interface is very intuitive and easy to use. It also gives you so many options through the UV Toolkit. Editing your animations has never been easier.
It comes with a clump modifier that lets you interactively groom your animations.
Features a link to Adobe After Effects so you can make adjustments on the fly.

4. Harmony

Harmony is a professional 2D subscription-based software that will allow you to create animations and backgrounds with ease.

Whether you want to animate, render, or simulate different graphics and backgrounds, you can get it all done with Harmony. It is fully compatible with Macs.

Features:

Three subscription options: Premium, Advanced, and Essentials.
Essential feature vector drawing, while the other two also include Bitmap.
Render quality can go from HD to 8K depending on your subscription.
Includes recoloring, rotoscoping, advanced vector pencil lines, multiplayer, and 3D environment support.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

Want to design interactive vector animations? Whether you are hoping to use them for games, apps, or your website, you can create them using Adobe Animate CC.

With the might of Adobe, you know that you are getting a quality product that will get frequent updates and enhancements.

Features:

Some newer enhancements include the ability to layer depth and add camera enhancements.
Advanced code wizard allows you to add actions to events using the HTML5 canvas.
The Animation Timeline is more powerful than ever. You can also use presets for managing the speed of your animations.
HiDPI support.

2. Poser Pro

The best tool for a digital artist who wants to create 3D character animations and illustrations, the Poser Pro 11.1 is available for a one-time purchase.

It may not be necessary for beginners to spend big money on animation software.

But professionals who want the best quality characters and background will be delighted with the features on offer.

Features:

SuperFly delivers the power of physically based rendering to Poser. You can render light in the way that it is meant to look.
The Realtime Comic Book preview feature is even better on this version of the program. Now you can get full access to your animations, while you can edit them using the convenient toolbars.
The actor selection feature makes it so easy to go back and forth between the different characters you create.

3. DigiCel FlipBook

Beginners who are struggling to understand some features of other programs will love FlipBook.

It is the simplest 2D animation software you will find online. But the best part is that despite its simplicity, it gives you the power and flexibility of other programs.

Features:

Drawing, scanning, importing, and painting is very easy with this program.
The intuitive interface means that if you want to make changes to your animations, you can do it within minutes.
Using it with a tablet is very helpful, as you can draw straight onto the program.
Add music and sync it with your animations.

4. iClone

Features:

Advanced tools that allow you to curve edit, incorporate PhysX simulating, and create organic morphs.
Delivers artistic real-time 3D visuals.
Unlimited plugin expansion and support.
On-demand community content and accessories.

Conclusion

With the above eight programs, you may many options when you make professional animated videos. You can create high-quality 3D background, terrain, objects, and characters.

And when you are finished with your animations, you may be thinking about editing the files or creating a larger story out of them.

Using Filmora will help you a lot with the editing process. It is an all-in-one video and animation file editor for both Windows and Mac computers.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

If you are not satisfied with some free animation options available on Windows and Mac, you may need to invest some money in a great program.

Those who want their animations to have a professional quality will need to find professional animation software. It will let you make a professional animated video to your heart’s content.

While these programs do come with an upfront cost, you are paying for the best features, troubleshooting, support, and graphical quality.

Those who create animation for business reasons will have much use for such software. Here are 8 of the best professional animation software options for Windows and Mac.

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac
Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

The beauty of blender is that it is a free program that still gives you all the features you would expect from a professional package.

It is a free, open-source and one of the best options for 3D animating. Whether you want to model, rig, animate, simulate, map, render or motion tracking, you can do it with Blender

Features:

The rendering, modeling, and animation features are top of the line. They are comparable with expensive software.
You have the ability to create VFX, simulations, and integrate pipeline tools.
You can create games, edit videos, and create scripts all within the program.

2. ZBrush

Hoping to create high-class 3D objects that are going to wow your audience? If you need to create 3D objects for a business video or to promote your personal brand, ZBrush is a terrific option.

It has some of the best features for digital sculpting that you will find in any program.

Features:

Unlike other programs, you are not restricted by polygon distribution. Sculpt all you want!
Options for single user or volume licenses - useful for businesses!
Rated as one of the best programs for sculpting in 2018.

3. Maya

Features:

The UV editor interface is very intuitive and easy to use. It also gives you so many options through the UV Toolkit. Editing your animations has never been easier.
It comes with a clump modifier that lets you interactively groom your animations.
Features a link to Adobe After Effects so you can make adjustments on the fly.

4. Harmony

Harmony is a professional 2D subscription-based software that will allow you to create animations and backgrounds with ease.

Whether you want to animate, render, or simulate different graphics and backgrounds, you can get it all done with Harmony. It is fully compatible with Macs.

Features:

Three subscription options: Premium, Advanced, and Essentials.
Essential feature vector drawing, while the other two also include Bitmap.
Render quality can go from HD to 8K depending on your subscription.
Includes recoloring, rotoscoping, advanced vector pencil lines, multiplayer, and 3D environment support.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

Want to design interactive vector animations? Whether you are hoping to use them for games, apps, or your website, you can create them using Adobe Animate CC.

With the might of Adobe, you know that you are getting a quality product that will get frequent updates and enhancements.

Features:

Some newer enhancements include the ability to layer depth and add camera enhancements.
Advanced code wizard allows you to add actions to events using the HTML5 canvas.
The Animation Timeline is more powerful than ever. You can also use presets for managing the speed of your animations.
HiDPI support.

2. Poser Pro

The best tool for a digital artist who wants to create 3D character animations and illustrations, the Poser Pro 11.1 is available for a one-time purchase.

It may not be necessary for beginners to spend big money on animation software.

But professionals who want the best quality characters and background will be delighted with the features on offer.

Features:

SuperFly delivers the power of physically based rendering to Poser. You can render light in the way that it is meant to look.
The Realtime Comic Book preview feature is even better on this version of the program. Now you can get full access to your animations, while you can edit them using the convenient toolbars.
The actor selection feature makes it so easy to go back and forth between the different characters you create.

3. DigiCel FlipBook

Beginners who are struggling to understand some features of other programs will love FlipBook.

It is the simplest 2D animation software you will find online. But the best part is that despite its simplicity, it gives you the power and flexibility of other programs.

Features:

Drawing, scanning, importing, and painting is very easy with this program.
The intuitive interface means that if you want to make changes to your animations, you can do it within minutes.
Using it with a tablet is very helpful, as you can draw straight onto the program.
Add music and sync it with your animations.

4. iClone

Features:

Advanced tools that allow you to curve edit, incorporate PhysX simulating, and create organic morphs.
Delivers artistic real-time 3D visuals.
Unlimited plugin expansion and support.
On-demand community content and accessories.

Conclusion

With the above eight programs, you may many options when you make professional animated videos. You can create high-quality 3D background, terrain, objects, and characters.

And when you are finished with your animations, you may be thinking about editing the files or creating a larger story out of them.

Using Filmora will help you a lot with the editing process. It is an all-in-one video and animation file editor for both Windows and Mac computers.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

If you are not satisfied with some free animation options available on Windows and Mac, you may need to invest some money in a great program.

Those who want their animations to have a professional quality will need to find professional animation software. It will let you make a professional animated video to your heart’s content.

While these programs do come with an upfront cost, you are paying for the best features, troubleshooting, support, and graphical quality.

Those who create animation for business reasons will have much use for such software. Here are 8 of the best professional animation software options for Windows and Mac.

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac
Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

The beauty of blender is that it is a free program that still gives you all the features you would expect from a professional package.

It is a free, open-source and one of the best options for 3D animating. Whether you want to model, rig, animate, simulate, map, render or motion tracking, you can do it with Blender

Features:

The rendering, modeling, and animation features are top of the line. They are comparable with expensive software.
You have the ability to create VFX, simulations, and integrate pipeline tools.
You can create games, edit videos, and create scripts all within the program.

2. ZBrush

Hoping to create high-class 3D objects that are going to wow your audience? If you need to create 3D objects for a business video or to promote your personal brand, ZBrush is a terrific option.

It has some of the best features for digital sculpting that you will find in any program.

Features:

Unlike other programs, you are not restricted by polygon distribution. Sculpt all you want!
Options for single user or volume licenses - useful for businesses!
Rated as one of the best programs for sculpting in 2018.

3. Maya

Features:

The UV editor interface is very intuitive and easy to use. It also gives you so many options through the UV Toolkit. Editing your animations has never been easier.
It comes with a clump modifier that lets you interactively groom your animations.
Features a link to Adobe After Effects so you can make adjustments on the fly.

4. Harmony

Harmony is a professional 2D subscription-based software that will allow you to create animations and backgrounds with ease.

Whether you want to animate, render, or simulate different graphics and backgrounds, you can get it all done with Harmony. It is fully compatible with Macs.

Features:

Three subscription options: Premium, Advanced, and Essentials.
Essential feature vector drawing, while the other two also include Bitmap.
Render quality can go from HD to 8K depending on your subscription.
Includes recoloring, rotoscoping, advanced vector pencil lines, multiplayer, and 3D environment support.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

Want to design interactive vector animations? Whether you are hoping to use them for games, apps, or your website, you can create them using Adobe Animate CC.

With the might of Adobe, you know that you are getting a quality product that will get frequent updates and enhancements.

Features:

Some newer enhancements include the ability to layer depth and add camera enhancements.
Advanced code wizard allows you to add actions to events using the HTML5 canvas.
The Animation Timeline is more powerful than ever. You can also use presets for managing the speed of your animations.
HiDPI support.

2. Poser Pro

The best tool for a digital artist who wants to create 3D character animations and illustrations, the Poser Pro 11.1 is available for a one-time purchase.

It may not be necessary for beginners to spend big money on animation software.

But professionals who want the best quality characters and background will be delighted with the features on offer.

Features:

SuperFly delivers the power of physically based rendering to Poser. You can render light in the way that it is meant to look.
The Realtime Comic Book preview feature is even better on this version of the program. Now you can get full access to your animations, while you can edit them using the convenient toolbars.
The actor selection feature makes it so easy to go back and forth between the different characters you create.

3. DigiCel FlipBook

Beginners who are struggling to understand some features of other programs will love FlipBook.

It is the simplest 2D animation software you will find online. But the best part is that despite its simplicity, it gives you the power and flexibility of other programs.

Features:

Drawing, scanning, importing, and painting is very easy with this program.
The intuitive interface means that if you want to make changes to your animations, you can do it within minutes.
Using it with a tablet is very helpful, as you can draw straight onto the program.
Add music and sync it with your animations.

4. iClone

Features:

Advanced tools that allow you to curve edit, incorporate PhysX simulating, and create organic morphs.
Delivers artistic real-time 3D visuals.
Unlimited plugin expansion and support.
On-demand community content and accessories.

Conclusion

With the above eight programs, you may many options when you make professional animated videos. You can create high-quality 3D background, terrain, objects, and characters.

And when you are finished with your animations, you may be thinking about editing the files or creating a larger story out of them.

Using Filmora will help you a lot with the editing process. It is an all-in-one video and animation file editor for both Windows and Mac computers.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

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The Animator’s Toolkit: Essential Software for Mac and PC

Professional Animation Software: 8 Best Creator for Mac and Windows

Shanoon Cox

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

2. ZBrush

3. Maya

4. Harmony

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

2. Poser Pro

3. DigiCel FlipBook

4. iClone

Conclusion

Shanoon Cox

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

2. ZBrush

3. Maya

4. Harmony

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

2. Poser Pro

3. DigiCel FlipBook

4. iClone

Conclusion

Shanoon Cox

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

2. ZBrush

3. Maya

4. Harmony

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

2. Poser Pro

3. DigiCel FlipBook

4. iClone

Conclusion

Shanoon Cox

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

2. ZBrush

3. Maya

4. Harmony

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

2. Poser Pro

3. DigiCel FlipBook

4. iClone

Conclusion