How to Add a Frame Around Your Subject in After Effects

Learn how to isolate your subject and build a dynamic frame around them in After Effects for stylized edits, intros, or creative scene layouts.

When your edit feels a little flat, adding structure around your subject can make it pop. A simple frame can draw focus, build contrast, or give your video a stylized look without overcomplicating the scene. In After Effects, you can pull this off with a rotobrushed subject, a masked shape layer, and a few quick tweaks. Here’s how to build it from scratch or use the same logic when looking for the perfect template.

Step 1: Isolate your subject with the Rotobrush

Start by separating your subject from the background. Use the Rotobrush tool to create a clean selection and refine the edges until you’re happy. Make sure you freeze the frame once the mask is locked in so it doesn’t shift as you move forward.

Do this:

Select your footage and double-click to open in Layer panel
Use the Rotobrush tool to mask your subject
Once you're satisfied, click Freeze to lock the mask
Duplicate your background layer

Step 2: Create a mask for the frame

Now it’s time to add a shape layer that acts as the frame. A rounded rectangle works great here, but you can style it however you like. The trick is to invert the mask so it outlines your subject rather than covering them. You can also animate it for extra energy.

Do this:

Create a new solid layer and place it under your isolated subject
Use the Rounded Rectangle Tool to draw a frame
In the Mask settings, check Invert
Optional: add keyframes for Size or Shape Path

Step 3: Soften the edges with blur and levels

To smooth the separation between your subject and background, use a blurred matte setup. This involves duplicating your subject, applying Fast Box Blur and Levels to the top copy, and then using it as a track matte for the lower copy.

Do this:

Duplicate the masked subject
On the top copy, apply Fast Box Blur and Levels
Increase blur to around 8
In Levels, set the channel to Alpha and raise the input white
Set the Track Matte of the bottom copy to Luma Matte (or Alpha Matte, depending on setup)

Now you’ve got a stylized frame with real depth

This technique adds just enough structure to your shot without distracting from the subject. It’s clean, customizable, and works across formats, from reels and promos to YouTube videos.

Skip complex setup and use ready to go templates

If you want the same look without building it layer by layer, you can choose customizable motion graphics templates. Videobolt offers 17,300+ customizable designs made for intros, overlays, music visualization, fully editable, fast to render, and easy to drop into your workflow. No masking or matte tricks required. Happy creating!