Want to create a futuristic hologram effect in After Effects? In this tutorial, I’ll show you a simple workflow using tracking, glow effects, and the ProductionCrate LaForge plugin to make a floating hologram that feels cinematic and realistic.

This effect works great for music videos, reels, sci-fi edits, tech promos, and creative social content.

Step 1 — Create a New Composition

Open Adobe After Effects and create a new composition with your preferred resolution and frame rate.

Import your footage and place it on the timeline.

Step 2 — Add Your PNG Graphic

Drag your hologram graphic into the composition.
In this example, I used a heart PNG.

Position and scale it according to the scene where you want the hologram to appear.

Step 3 — Make the PNG Pure White

To prepare the hologram effect:

• Apply the Tint effect
• Change the image to pure white

This helps the hologram plugin react better and creates a cleaner glow effect.

Step 4 — Apply the Hologram Effect

I used the LaForge plugin from ProductionCrate.

Inside the plugin presets, apply the Hologram effect to the PNG layer.

After applying it, adjust settings like:

• Glow intensity
• Scan lines
• Distortion
• Flicker
• Opacity
• Color balance

Small adjustments make the hologram feel much more realistic and cinematic.

Step 5 — Track the Movement Using Mocha

To make the hologram follow the hand naturally:

• Open Mocha AE
• Track the hand movement from the footage
• Export the tracking data
• Apply it to the hologram layer

This step adds realism and makes the hologram interact naturally with the scene.

Step 6 — Final Adjustments

To finish the effect:

• Add extra glow if needed
• Reduce opacity slightly
• Add motion blur
• Use blending modes like Add or Screen
• Add subtle flicker animations for a futuristic feel

You can also duplicate the layer and blur it slightly for stronger hologram energy.

Final Result

With just a PNG, tracking, and a few effects, you can create a professional hologram glow effect directly inside After Effects.

This technique is simple but extremely effective for short-form content and cinematic edits.

Tools Used

• Adobe After Effects
• ProductionCrate LaForge Plugin
• Mocha AE Tracking