1.1 What constitutes an After Effects Project File?

If you are at this point and are not sure what an After Effects project is, or have little experience with After Effects, please turn back!  After Effects is a motion graphics and compositing software and only experienced After Effects users should upload their projects

1.2 What Types of Projects May I Upload?

RevoStock is only looking for After Effects files with a certain level of complexity.  Simple projects only including basic After Effects functions like the resizing of shapes, text or images, or the basic use of any After Effects effect are not complex enough to be submitted.  There are numerous examples we can give, but basically the level of complexity must exceed the basic use or keyframing of any of the AE effects or plug-ins.  

1.3 What May I Not Upload? IMPORTANT

YOU MUST OWN EVERY PIECE OF MEDIA (Image, video, illustration, project, animation) included in your project file.  If there is ANYTHING in your project that you did not create, shoot, photograph, illustrate, video, produce or record (audio), you MAY NOT include it.  Stock video or photo that you did not create yourself MAY NOT be included.  You may not include any fonts in your project unless you created the fonts yourself. (You may use special fonts in your video sample for aesthetic purposes, but these fonts should not be included with the project.)  If you attempt to upload project files with assets that are not wholly owned by you, your RevoStock account may be terminated and legal action may take place.  All items included in your project are subject to the same copyright restrictions as our audio or video files.

1.4 Quality Standards

As with all RevoStock content, we ask that producers ONLY upload their very best content.  All submissions will be reviewed and sub-par content will not be approved into our system.

2.  WHAT TO INCLUDE DURING THE UPLOAD PROCESS (After you are approved as a Producer)

2.1 A Zip file containing your Project file, assets and instructions.

Your After Effects project file (.aep), all of your assets (any videos, images, illustrations, PDFs, audio) and a readme.txt instructional file must all be "zipped" into a .zip file.  For simplicity sake and in order to exclude unnecessary files and compositions, we ask that you use the COLLECT FILES function in After Effects which will organize your project and assets into folders as well as remove any unused assets.  See your After Effects documentation for more information.  Only .zip files will be accepted as they are the most universal archive format.  

You may only include one project file however, you may include nested compositions with your project including multiple resolutions. i.e. You might include one composition at NTSC resolution and one at HD 1280X720.  Or you may simply include instructions for resizing in your ReadMe.txt file.

File Size:  Your ZIP file should not exceed 500 MB including all assets.

2.2 Sample video file

You will need to include a Quicktime MPEG4 sample video of your rendered out project.  This sample should not exceed 1:00.  If  your project includes multiple compositions, you may include each rendering back to back to show the various options included in the file.  For your sample video, you may use custom fonts to show what the project could look like.  If your project is standard 4:3 resolution like NTSC or PAL, please include a 320X240 sample video.  If your project is widescreen HD please include a 320X180 sized sample video. Please don't include the sample video in your zip file.

2.3  Thumbnail Image

You need to include a thumbnail image that will represent your project file.  This should simply be a screenshot of your project taken from an ideal place in the timeline.  Your sample video will be the actual representation of your project, however. Thumbnails should be 360x240 for NTSC, 360x288 for PAL, and 360x202 for High Definition.

2.4  Model Release or Property Release

If your project uses any photos or videos that require a property or model release, you should include this as well during the upload process.  Please do not include these in your zip file. See details below in the Model/Property release section.

3.  ASSETS/PLACEHOLDERS (Video files, Photos, Illustrations, Audio included with your project) - 

3.1 Placeholders

In order to save space and for instructional purposes we request, when possible, that you include placeholders in your project rather than actual assets (videos, photos, etc.)  For example, if your project is an animated video wall, instead of including the videos used, replace the actual video with an image that says "Place Video 1 Here" or "Replace this with your photo."  This will help your buyer to understand how the project works as well as help them understand how to use it after purchase.

3.2 Quality

As mentioned previously, if certain assets are crucial to your project and must be included, all assets included in your project must be wholly owned/created by you.  The quality of your assets must be at the same quality level of all RevoStock content. 

3.2 Video

If you must include a video file in your project, your footage must adhere to the standards RevoStock has set forth for all video contributors.  Video footage should be shot using a prosumer video camera or better.  Examples of prosumer cameras are:

Canon GL2 MiniDV
Canon XL1 MiniDV
JVC GY-DV5000U MiniDV
Panasonic AG-DVX100B MiniDV
Panasonic AG-HVX200 MiniDV/HD
Sony DCR-VX2100 MiniDV
Sony DSR-PD170 MiniDV
Various prosumer HDV cameras

Also acceptable are BETACAM SP and other professional quality NTSC, PAL D1 and Pro HD cameras.

As far as cameras that are not acceptable, a good rule of thumb is, if it was or is possible to purchase your camera at most chain electronics stores such as Best Buy or Circuit City, then your camera will most likely not be acceptable. 

3.2.1 Encoding

Any video files included in your project should be encoded using Quicktime PhotoJPEG, MotionJPEG A, MotionJPEG B (each set at 75% (high) quality level) or Quicktime DV codecs.  For detailed information on video encoding and codecs, please click here.

3.3 Photos

If it is necessary to include your own photos, they must also be captured with high quality SLR cameras. A few good examples of these types of cameras are:

Nikon D40, 50, 70, 80 or the D2X or D200, etc.
Canon Digital Rebel Xt Series, 1D, 5D, 30D, etc.

Remember, that any photos included in the project will be owned by the purchaser in accordance with the license agreement.  i.e. If you include a background photo in your project, the end-user will not have to remove the background photo in order to use the project.  Anything included may be used by the end-user as long as it fits within the confines of our Content License Agreement.  If you do not own the photo or do not wish for it to be used in accordance with our Content License Agreement, please include a placeholder instead.

3.4 Vector Files and Other Assets

Your project may include the following formats: 

.jpg
.gif
.psd
.eps
.pdf
.png
.wav
.mp3
.aiff
.ai
.mov (Note video requirements)

RevoStock.com will accept Photoshop Layered files (.psd.), After Effects files (.aep), Illustrator files (.ai, .eps) and PDF files (.pdf)

Vector or layered graphic files contained in these project files must also be original files created by you, the producer and should adhere to the rest of RevoStock's quality standards.

3.5 Fonts

As mentioned above, do not include any fonts in your file unless you are the original creator of the entire font.  Use a basic system font like Arial.  You may use custom fonts in your sample video rendering to give an example of what the project could look like. Please make sure that you own a license to use the font for commercial use if you choose to use a font as an example in your sample video.

4.  Project/Pricing Levels

4.1 Pricing System

RevoStock uses a 3 level pricing system for our After Effects projects.  The 3 levels are based upon the project's complexity.  When submitting your project, you will select which level your project should be placed under.  However, RevoStock reserves the right to adjust this level based upon our review of the project.  We suggest that you observe other projects on RevoStock to get an idea of the types of projects required for each pricing level.  View our royalty and pricing structure by clicking here.

4.1.1 After Effects Project 1 (Basic)

This is our lowest priced After Effects project level.  Level 1 projects are the most basic projects we accept, but should still involve a level of complexity beyond the basic use of After Effects.  Usually a Level 1 project will only include a small number of layers. Examples include:

• Text Effects (Flying text, 3D text, Text Effects using plug-ins like Trapcode Shine, etc. Text Reveal effects)
• Advanced Plug-In Effects and Presets - i.e. an original preset/setting like a pre-made sky using Aurora Sky or a pre-made ocean scene using Tsunami.  (Note that these MUST be original unique presets created by you and not minor tweaks to current presets.)  Also, text effects using Trapcode plug-ins like Shine, etc.
• Other plug-in effect presets, i.e. Trapcode 3D Stroke effects.
• Particle effects.
• Color Effects, i.e. film effects (beyond basic simple color correction)
• Elements that can be implemented or added to the end-users own After Effects project
• All projects must be original works.  Do not upload another persons presets, tutorials or any slight tweaks of the same.  

4.1.2 After Effects Project 2 (Moderate)

The next level of projects reach another level of complexity.  Level 2 projects will usually include a larger number of layers and assets.  Multiple effects are used and 3D elements may or may not be used.  These moderate level files are not just a "preset" effect but an actual project and may include multiple or nested AE compositions.  Projects should require a moderate amount of time to create. Project examples include: 

• Animated Logos/Stingers
• Graphic Packages that include customizable backgrounds and lower-thirds
• More complex elements
• Moderately difficult intros.
• More complex text effects
• Video or photo walls.

4.1.3 After Effects Project 3 (Advanced)

The most advanced level of projects are at the top highest complexity level.  These projects must include multiple layers, be of an extended length, use multiple effects or 3D cameras, may include 3D lighting and the advanced use of plug-ins or the advanced use of one or more plug-ins.  Projects should require a significant amount of time to create. Examples include:

• Extended length, and very complex logos.
• Complex, introductory title screens.
• Movie/TV Show introductory credit sequences.

4.  Unacceptable Content

RevoStock.com reserves the right to refuse any content that we consider pornographic, obscene, offensive, sexually suggestive, controversial, or media that simply does not fit into the RevoStock library.  Media including nudity or sexually suggestive themes will not be accepted into the RevoStock.com library.  

5.  ACCOUNT AND ROYALTY PAYMENT INFORMATION

5.1 Account Information

Your account information must be full and correct when signing up with us to contribute project files.  We must have your correct Name, Address, phone number and email address.  Your information is protected and will not be given out to third parties.  Please check our privacy policy for more details.  If any of your information is not correct, please click "My Account" in order to update it.

5.2  Royalty Payments

RevoStock.com only pays our producers their royalties via paypal.  This method is secure and safe for both us and our producers.  Each time your project file is downloaded you make money!  Payments will be delivered via PayPal on the 15th of each month.  If you do not have a PayPal account, it is easy and secure!  Sign up now at http://www.paypal.com/.  At the end of this application process you will be asked for your PayPal information.  For information on royalty payments and how much you can make click here.

Your royalties are collected until you choose to withdraw them and receive payment.  For instance, you may want to wait until your royalties reach $100 before withdrawing them.  Once your royalties reach $100, click on the "Withdraw Royalties" button in the left-nav bar.  There you may either choose to withdraw these royalties or convert them into credits and receive bonus credits.  YOU MUST WITHDRAW THE AMOUNT YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE PAID BY THE 8TH OF THE MONTH TO BE PAID ON THE 15TH.

Important note:  When you withdraw your royalties you will still have to wait until the 15th for the payment to be processed via paypal. Royalty withdrawals must be made on or before the 8th of each month.  On the 15th of each month we do a mass payment to paypal which submits all the royalties for payment at one time.  If you have any questions please contact us.

5.3  Exclusive and Non-Exclusive Royalty Contracts

There are two types of contracts you may enter into with RevoStock.com.  Each time you upload footage, you will be able to choose which type of contract you would like to enter into for that specific piece of footage.  Here are the two types of contracts:

5.3.1 EXCLUSIVE CONTRACT - An exclusive contract means that you will only sell your project files through RevoStock.com and you will not sell it in downloadable format through any other website.  You may however, sell your project files in downloadable format through your own website.  You may also resell your project files in any "hard" format such as DVD, CD, Tape, etc.  This only applies to downloadable websites similar to RevoStock.com.  

The reason for entering into an exclusive contract is more money for you!  The royalty rate for our exclusive files is higher than it is for our non-exclusive ones.  To see our current royalty rates click here.  

5.3.2 NON-EXCLUSIVE CONTRACT - A non-exclusive contract means that you are free to sell your project files through any other downloadable media site you would like to as well as through RevoStock.com.  Non-exclusive contracts yield lower royalty rates.  Click here to see our current royalty rates.

CHANGING CONTRACTS - At any time you may switch a project file from an exclusive contract to a non-exclusive one or vice versa.  Just send us an email at support@RevoStock.com

LEGAL INFORMATION - For more information about royalties and payments and to view our contracts, please view our legal information.

6.    COPYRIGHTS

6.1 Ownership

You must be the individual that recorded the footage with your camera, created the vector/layered file, or shot the photograph.  If you were not the original creator, then most likely you are not legally allowed to upload and sell the project file and the contained media.  

If you are submitting project files that includes some type of artwork, you must be the one who created the artwork, unless it is so old that copyright law does not apply.  Typically items created before 1920 fit in under this category.

Also, do not upload projects that are copies of other projects/tutorials.

6.2  Re-Touched Media accquired from other Stock Media sources

You may not purchase media from any other stock media source, re-touch it or change it, and then upload it to our website for sale.  This is very important.  If you do so, you will be liable.  If media is uploaded that you do not own, your account will be immediately cancelled.

6.3  Logos, advertisements and copyrighted graphics.

Your media may NOT contain any recognizable logo, advertisement, copyrighted graphics, images or artwork.   Examples:

6.3.1  You would not be able to use footage of an urban scene if there is a recognizable McDonald's sign in the background.

6.3.2  You would not be able to use artistic footage moving across a newspaper page if a recognizable magazine ad is shown.

6.3.3  You have footage of a modern sculpture outside of your city museum.  This would not be acceptable as this sculpture would be copyrighted by the artist.

6.3.4  Art produced prior to 1920 is usually allowed as the work is typically public domain.

If you submit project files that contain footage with a recognizable logo or copyrighted image, it will be rejected.

6.4  Model Releases

This is simple.  You absolutely must have a model release for every recognizable face in your piece of footage or photo.  

We encourage you to submit project files using a model or model's, but it must be accompanied by a signed model release.  When you upload your project files you will have the chance to upload your model release.  Print out the model release, have it filled out and signed.  Then scan it, or take a picture of it and upload it when you submit your project files.

If the person is a minor, you must have a parent or guardian sign the release.

If your media has any recognizable face without a model release, it will be rejected.  

6.5  Property Releases

Property releases are typically a bit more complex.  Recognizable footage of private property usually taken from the inside or on the property itself requires a property release.

While property typically refers to buildings or structures, it could also refer to autos, boats or collectibles.

Shooting general footage/photos of the outside of a building from a public place is typically ok.

The key in this case is how uniquely recognizable the property is.  

For example, general imagery of a building is ok, but if the exact address is shown you would want to get a property release as that property is now uniquely identifiable.

Some famous structures are trademarked. It is best to so some research before submitting media of them.

Please do not include model or property releases in your zip file.

Click here to download our property release.

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