How to Create a Bar Graph in Adobe After Effects

Great for data presentations or corporate videos, this technique for creating dynamic bar graphs in After Effects is quick and painless!

Graphs are a frequent business client request – they can quickly and simply visualize complex data. But for the motion designer, creating animated graphs can seem like a daunting task.

Don’t be intimidated. Creating bar graphs in After Effects is actually pretty straightforward and you don’t need any third party plugins to get the job done. In the following video tutorial we’ll tackle animated bar graphs in After Effects using only keyframed shape layers. By using AE’s grid overlay (and ‘snap to grid’ feature) you can easily line up your shapes and give them simulated 3D depth.

Although there are several techniques for creating bar graphs in After Effects (and a few plugins that can streamline some of this process), I’ve found that the approach in this video tutorial is straightforward, easily customizable and quick. How do you create graphs and infographics in After Effects? Share in the comments below!