Zaebects JPEG Glitch

Use the JPEG compression algorithm to create glitchy effects in After Effects with Zaebects JPEG Glitch.

The JPEG glitch plugin leverages the JPEG compression algorithm to create unique visual effects. By introducing controlled “errors” at various steps or allowing manual value adjustments, JPEG Glitch produces a distinctive glitch aesthetic exclusive to JPEG compression. The control panel enables you to manipulate the amount and type of glitchiness.

How it works

The plugin processes each frame as a separate image, converts it to a JPEG, and returns it in the same picture format. The conversion stage is where all magic happens: all “errors” and glitches are added. Any actual errors and broken bytes are left at the conversion stage, so upon output the plugin returns only “healthy” pictures. This ensures that your rendered files remain functional, yet look like they are corrupted.  In essence, all glitches and errors are confined to the conversion stage, so you can enjoy creative effects without worrying about file integrity.

JPEG Glitch Key Features:

• Ability to glitch all levels of JPEG compression algorithm
• Works fast, you don’t have to wait for the render
• Crash protection. Your rendered files will work as usual
• JPEG glitch aesthetic is easy to use, without the need for programming knowledge
• Many combinations of parameters are available for creating very cool results.

Parameters:

Compression and broken bytes

You can adjust the compression ratio to change the amount of information an image contains. This will affect how other parameters work, as more complex glitches require more bytes of information.
“Broken bytes” speaks for itself. This parameter determines how many bytes of information have been changed in the image.

Important! The “Broken bytes” parameter gives different results on MacOS and Windows, so be careful when using the same project on different platforms.

Quantization tables

The quantization table significantly affects both the quality and degree of JPEG compression. This section is divided into two parts:

1. Quantization Table Values:
   Adjust any of the 64 quantization table coefficient (QTC) positions to a new QTC value.

2. Random Value Replacement:
   Select how many of the 64 values (breaking bytes) will be replaced by a random number within the specified range (up to the maximum random value).

The checkbox toggles only the first part on or off.

Other parameters

Advanced settings and Broken tools are intuitive, so try tweaking them individually and then combining them with other settings. The result will pleasantly surprise you!