Filter 2: GridSquares.

GridSquares is designed to create geometric shapes. Lots of 'em. Its particle system generates the shapes out across a Grid, then gives you simple behavior options and 'Randomize' attributes on top of that. Wow. This setup gives you a great deal of flexibility and power, without the complexity that usually comes with particle systems.

One version of the '128-sides' polygon Shape [play]

Variation of the '128-sides' polygon Shape [play]

Star shapes fade and rotate downwards [play]

Squares, circles & stars, oh my.

The default 'Shape' is a square, but there are over two dozen presets. Most are fairly normal: circles, stars, triangles, X's. There are a few funky shapes in there, too.

Here at Digital Anarchy, we are pleased that we have the first fully functional Martini generation tool for After Effects.

The particle attributes — Size, Opacity, Speed, Color, etc — work for all the shapes using the same behavior. There is a four color 'Gradient' bar to control and animates their color. Built-in Blend Modes allow the Shapes to intersect.

The only limitation is that you cannot import your own geometric shape.

Add outlines and jitter.

The only significant difference between the Shape types is the ability of some shapes to generate an outline.

Outline can give a completely different look to your animation, especially if you have the Outlines Only option turned on. You can add Jitter to your outline to make the particles dance around, and outlines can have varying thicknesses.

Squares overlay via Overlap and a Blend Mode [play]

Outline the shapes in different colors [play]

Make changes to Color, Speed, Direction, and Fade [play]

Shifting shapes.

GridSquare shapes have a 'Growth' rate. You can define their initial 'Size', what size they will grow to, and the 'Speed' at which they'll get there. You can also allow the shapes to 'Overlap' or 'Overwrite' each other.

Growing on top of or in place of each other can produce some nice animation, particularly when combined with GrdSquares' built-in Blend modes.