Shape/Path + Motion Workflow
Shape layers are powerful tools for creating graphics directly in After Effects. Combined with path operations and the graph editor, you can create sophisticated animations entirely procedurally.
Key Concepts
Trim Paths
- Animate Start/End values to draw on/off strokes
- Offset animates the position of the trim
- Perfect for line-drawing animations
Basic Wipes
- Reveal content with animated masks
- Linear Wipe effect for simple transitions
- Radial Wipe for circular reveals
Path Animations
- Animate objects along a path using motion paths
- Copy mask paths to position properties
- Auto-orient to follow path tangent
Graph Editor
- Fine-tune animation easing curves
- Value Graph vs Speed Graph modes
- Easy Ease, Bezier, and Hold keyframes
Key Parameters
- Position — location in composition space
- Scale — size relative to anchor point
- Opacity — transparency (0–100%)
- Rotation — degrees around anchor point
Expressions
- JavaScript-based automation for properties
- wiggle(frequency, amplitude) for organic motion
- loopOut() for seamless loops
- time * speed for continuous animation
Tips & Best Practices
- Hold Shift while dragging keyframes in Graph Editor for vertical constraint
- Use expression 'loopOut("cycle")' for infinite loops
- Pull bezier handles in Graph Editor for smoother easing
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