Creating fire and smoke simulations

Let’s add fire and smoke simulations in the War Scene composition using CC Particle System II. CC Particle Systems II is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide variety of effects. It is also relatively easy to use due to its simple settings and pre-built presets, and you get immediate visual feedback.

Adding a smoke simulation

First, we will add a smoke simulation using CC Particle Systems II effects in After Effects.

Follow these steps to create a smoke simulation:

1. Right-click in the War Scene composition, then go to the New | Solid... option.
2. In the Solid Settings dialog box, change Name to Smoke and Color to # 000000 and click OK.
3. Keep the Smoke layer selected, go to the Effect menu, and select Simulation | CC Particle Systems II.
4. In the Effect Controls panel, reveal the Producer settings of CC Particle Systems II. Producer refers to an element or component that generates or emits particles.
5. Change...