How I Created a Custom Countdown Video with Premiere Pro and After Effects

Today, I want to share with you my process for creating a custom live stream countdown for our church. This countdown video works not only for in-person services but also for live streams. In fact, later in this article, I'll explain how I adapted our live stream countdown to create an in-person version.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Setting Up the Software

I used Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe After Effects to create the countdown. I started by using After Effects to create the clock and did the rest of the editing in Premiere Pro. If you don't want to use After Effects, there's a link in the video description where you can download a five-minute countdown clock to overlay onto your video.

Step 2: Creating the Countdown Timer

First, I created a new composition in After Effects. I named the composition and set the resolution to 1920x1080 with a frame rate of 23.976 frames per second. The duration was set to the length of the countdown, which in my case was 10 minutes.

Next, I added a text layer and typed "00:00". I made sure the text was centered both horizontally and vertically. I then searched for the slider control effect in the effects and presets tab and applied it to the text layer. By adjusting the source text, I programmed the countdown timer using a line of code provided in the video description.

Step 3: Exporting the Timer

Once the countdown timer was set up, I exported it by adding the composition to the render queue in After Effects. I adjusted the settings to ensure the timer was exported with an alpha channel, which allows for transparency. I then rendered the timer and saved it to use in Premiere Pro.

Step 4: Compiling Footage and Graphics

In Premiere Pro, I organized all the assets needed for the countdown video. This included b-roll footage from around the church, motion backgrounds, still graphics, and licensed music. I used a structured folder system to keep everything organized.

Step 5: Editing in Premiere Pro

I started by creating a new sequence in Premiere Pro. I imported the countdown timer and added it to the timeline along with a motion background. I then added still graphics with messages inviting viewers to engage with the live stream.

For the b-roll footage, I placed all the clips onto the timeline and used keyboard shortcuts to trim and organize the footage efficiently. I added a black overlay to ensure the countdown timer was easily readable over the b-roll footage.

Step 6: Adding Music and Transitions

I selected appropriate music from Soundstripe, ensuring I had the necessary licenses. I added the music to the timeline and used transitions to keep the video engaging. For instance, I used a zoom transition to move into the b-roll section, which fit well with the music.

Step 7: Final Touches

I included a talking head video of the pastor addressing the online audience. This was layered with motion graphics for a professional look. Towards the end of the countdown, I added a "service will begin in X seconds" message to prepare viewers for the start of the service.

For the in-person version, I removed the music and the talking head video, replacing them with welcome graphics. This allowed for a seamless transition from the countdown to the start of the service.

Step 8: Creating an Outro Video

I also created an outro video to thank viewers for tuning in. This included b-roll footage and a title graphic with a message saying, "Thanks for tuning in, see you next week." The outro played for 60 seconds before fading to black.

Conclusion

Creating a custom countdown video for your church can be a fun and rewarding project. By following these steps, you can produce a professional-looking countdown that engages your audience and enhances your live streams and in-person services. If you have any questions or need more in-depth tutorials on specific aspects of this process, feel free to reach out. I'd love to see what you create, so please send me your countdown videos!

Thank you for reading, and if you're looking for more videos to save you time and frustration figuring out digital media, be sure to subscribe to my channel. I'll be making more videos like this in the coming weeks and months. If you're looking for more personal and in-depth training, check out the links in the description for courses and one-on-one calls.

Happy editing!