Mastering the Step Printing Effect: A Guide for Filmmakers

The Step Printing effect is a mesmerising visual technique that creates a dreamy, ghostly look, as seen in Chungking Express and Travis Scott’s JACKBOYS music video. This effect adds a sense of movement and chaos, making it a fantastic tool for transitions or stylised action shots. In this tutorial, we’ll explore two methods to achieve this look: one using Adobe Premiere Pro and the other done in-camera for a more organic feel.

Method 1: Creating the Effect in Premiere Pro

If you prefer to craft this effect in post-production, Premiere Pro offers a simple yet powerful way to do so. However, keep in mind that this technique works best with handheld or shaky footage, as the natural motion enhances the dreamy, layered aesthetic.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Apply the Echo Effect

   • Select your clip and add the Echo effect.
   • Increase the number of echoes to around 9 or 10 to create overlapping ghostly trails.

2. Adjust the Echo Time

   • Keep the echo time below 0.3 to prevent excessive blending.
   • Experiment with Echo Operators – the Minimum setting creates a sharper, more defined effect.

3. Modify the Decay Setting

   • Set the decay to around 0.7 to control the strength of the ghosting effect.
   • A higher decay makes echoes fade faster, while a lower decay keeps them more visible.

4. Add the Posterize Time Effect

   • Apply the Posterize Time effect and drop the frame rate to 6 fps.

Bonus Tip:

For a unique variation, duplicate your clip. Keep the bottom clip untouched and remove the effect on the top layer. Experiment with blend modes like Overlay or Screen to mix different textures and create a visually stunning result.

Method 2: Achieving the Effect In-Camera

For those who prefer a raw, organic look, this effect can be replicated during filming with the right camera settings. This approach eliminates the need for post-production while capturing a more immersive, natural motion blur.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Adjust Your Camera Settings

   • Set your camera to 24 fps for a cinematic feel.
   • Lower the shutter speed to 1/8s to create motion blur and smear effects.

2. Control Your Exposure

   • A slow shutter speed lets in more light, so adjust the aperture or use an ND filter to prevent overexposure, especially in bright conditions.

3. Introduce Movement

   • The more motion in your shot, the stronger the effect.
   • Use handheld camera work, tracking shots, or whip pans between subjects to enhance the look.

This in-camera method delivers an authentic and immersive effect, often preferred over digital post-production techniques.

Final Thoughts

Both methods offer exciting creative possibilities, and for an even wilder look, try combining them! Whether you’re using Premiere Pro or experimenting in-camera, there’s plenty of room to tweak settings and develop your own unique style.

How will you use the Step Printing effect in your projects? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re looking to speed up your workflow in Premiere Pro, check out the Editors Keys Premiere Pro Wireless Keyboard for ultimate efficiency.