Adobe Max, a pioneer in content automation

Gepubliceerd op

9 November 2021

Laatste update: 22/11/2024

Design is everywhere. And with it comes a content explosion – a phenomenon Adobe has been highlighting for years at their creativity conference, Adobe MAX. At Catena Company, we are deeply immersed in these developments, connecting challenges with solutions through visual content automation.

What about that content? Content today takes on many forms – graphic design, video, web, social media – and is increasingly integrated into innovative applications, such as software interfaces and home appliances. This surge in creativity brings immense potential. However, given the growing complexity, we must prioritise improving efficiency to effectively manage the distribution of various designs across multiple channels. And let’s not forget: standing out as a brand is more critical than ever. Technology is helping us out.

Content automation

The same technologies that bring new challenges also empower creators to produce and distribute content more quickly and easily. These advancements allow creators to gain greater appreciation for their work. Technology raises efficiency to new heights. It’s worth noting: the strongest brand wins, not necessarily the best product or service. Success comes from a brand that effectively manages its entire content supply chain, from production to architecture, distribution, and reporting.

Let’s zoom in briefly on automating content creation – specifically Adobe tools for design, which are also mostly covered during Adobe Max.

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe improved the object selection tool in Photoshop a while ago with the introduction of the Object Finder. Thanks to Adobe Sensei, you can select objects with one click and easily add multiple objects with the shift key. The Subject Selection tool now offers a choice between local or cloud-based processing. The cloud option is slightly slower, but delivers more accurate results. Neural Filters have been further refined, including the new Harmonisation feature, which makes colours blend better in compositions, and the Landscape Mixer, which lets you change the mood of landscapes with a click. In addition, the new Perceptual Gradient offers a more natural transition than previous gradient options. You can now import Illustrator files with layers, and the integration of Substance 3D materials further expands the creative possibilities.

Adobe Fresco

Adobe Fresco expanded with new animation tools. You can easily create animations on your iPad with motion paths or frame-by-frame, similar to Flash. These techniques can also be combined, and each layer can be animated separately. Export can be done as MP4, GIF or PNG sequences. In addition, you can create perspective drawings with your Apple Pencil, manage versions and use custom brush settings. The brush library is extensive and workspaces are customisable, including dark mode and movable toolbars.

Adobe Illustrator

In Adobe Illustrator, it is possible to directly view comments on shared designs, which is convenient for feedback. The biggest update is the improved 3D functionality, which works faster and offers more options such as Bevel and Inflate. You can edit shadows accurately even after rendering, and Substance 3D materials are now available in Illustrator. In addition, you can quickly select all text in a particular font style for quick changes. Images from Photoshop can be easily updated via the Creative Cloud. Illustrator now also supports HEIF and WebP files.

Adobe InDesign

The updates in Adobe InDesign are also quite interesting. You can extract and save colours, fonts and shapes from images in Adobe CC Libraries, similar to functions from Adobe Capture. “Master Pages” have been renamed “Parent Pages” for more uniformity. In addition, you can scale the User Interface for more comfortable working, especially when using a second monitor.

Adobe Substance 3D

Have you explored Adobe Substance 3D yet? This separately purchased suite marks Adobe’s significant venture into the realm of 3D design. With Substance 3D, you can infuse your digital creations with lifelike qualities, enhancing surfaces to provide tangible textures and forms. Substance 3D allows you to simulate sensations such as rough, dry, slippery, slippery… as if you were really touching the materials.

Adobe XD

Adobe XD now supports LottieFiles, making it easy to integrate small animations (in .json format) into your designs or websites. Whether you’re adapting existing animations or creating your own using After Effects and BodyMovin, it’s no hassle. You can also import videos with ease, enabling features like auto-play, trimming, and customizing the poster image. Adjusting audio settings? That’s simple too. Finally, Adobe XD allows you to create public links effortlessly for sharing designs or even publishing directly to Behance.

Adobe Stock

Adobe Stock, Adobe’s stock material platform, continues to roll out useful updates. For instance, you can search for videos based on specific shot formats or angles, helping you find footage that complements your project in no time. Looking for audio or sound clips? Upload a music track or audio file, and Adobe Stock can help you find similar tracks with the same tempo or mood – perfect for locating royalty-free music.

Adobe Max 2024

The most functional, innovative, and trendsetting technology for the creative industry, marketers, and brand owners is always on display at Adobe MAX. Curious about visual content automation enhanced with AI? Attend their annual events, such as Adobe MAX 2024 in October, or connect with Catena Company – we’re here to guide you!