User Guide

CHAPTER 4
130
Managing Layers
Rearranging layers
You can change the stacking order (which layers appear above or below other layers), the
positions of layers in visual space, and the point in the play time at which different layers
appear. The Timeline window provides intuitive methods for dragging layers vertically
into different stacking orders and dragging time indicators for a layer horizontally to
achieve the results you want. The Align palette makes it easy to arrange spatial relation-
ships between elements on different layers.
Changing the layer stacking order
The Timeline window displays the layer stacking order. The uppermost layer appears at
the top of the layer outline list, the second layer is immediately below it, and so on.
Changing the order of footage layers modifies the appearance of your composition by
repositioning footage in front of or behind other footage.
Changing the position of an adjustment layer in the stacking order changes which layers
it affects (because it affects only the layers below it). For more information, see “Creating
an adjustment layer” on page 128.
Note: The stacking order of 3D layers has somewhat different implications. For information,
see “Combining 2D and 3D layers” on page 290.
To rearrange layer order:
In the Timeline window, select the layers you want to move by name and drag up or down
the stacking order.
Note: As you drag a layer name up or down, a horizontal line appears between other layer
names, indicating the position to which the layer will move if you release the mouse.
For more information on 2D and 3D layers, see “Combining 2D and 3D layers” on
page 290.
To move a layer to a specific position in the order:
In the Composition or Timeline window, select the layer and do one of the following:
• To move a layer up or down one level, choose Layer > Bring Forward or Layer > Send
Backward.
• To move a layer to the top of the composition, choose Layer > Bring to Front.
UG.book Page 130 Wednesday, February 21, 2001 12:05 PM