Post-Production : Compositing by Derek Frederickson

Poor question. It entirely depends on a hundred factors including your clients/employer, the projects you're working on, who you are working with and their needs, your budget, your learning and growth as a compositor (which No doubt Alfonso is referring to).

Fishing for personal preference actually. I've used AE since v1.0 (Cosa) but that doesn't mean it's the best tool around these days. It is, however, my tool. Same with C4D.

all depends on what you are trying to accomplish, how much money you have, and what works for you. Both are great tools.

I use both After Effects and Nuke as well as Houdini (depending on what results are needed and what the other post production staff are using). Though to answer your question, I really prefer After Effects because of the seamless integration with all the other Adobe products and fantastic compatibility with Cinema 4D.