Paths from Photoshop can also be pasted directly into AE as well.
In Photoshop, select the Pen Tool and draw either a closed or open path .
Switch to the Path Selection Tool to select the whole path.
Copy it (choose Edit>Copy) or press Cmd+C (Ctrl+C).
Select a layer in After Effects and paste and chose Edit>Paste or press Cmd+V (Ctrl+V).
Paste the path into the layer window or composition window.
The Custom Shape Tool in Photoshop is a great way to draw vector shapes . You can copy and paste them into AE like freehand paths.