Instruction Manual

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Basic compositing overview
Compositing is the process of combining at least two images to produce an integrated nal
result. The process can be as simple as placing text over an image, or as complex as combining
live actors with drooling space aliens who shoot laser beams from their eyes. Motion graphics
artists use various compositing techniques to create animated visual eects, including changing
group and layer order, transforming the physical properties of layers (such as scale), adjusting
layer opacity and blend mode settings, applying lters to layers, and creating text and shapes.
Motion graphics projects often combine layout and design techniques with special eects such
as keying, masking, color correction, and creation of particle systems.
After you import the layers you need for your project, the rst step in the compositing workow
is to arrange the layers in the Canvas to rough out the general design of your piece. Before you
animate anything, you should decide on a layout, taking into account the size, placement, and
rotation of the layers in your composition.
Use the Motion editing tools to perform basic layout tasks—selecting, moving, rotating, scaling,
distorting, cropping, changing a layer’s anchor point, and manipulating drop shadows. These
editing tools are available on the left side of the toolbar. When you choose an editing tool,
specic onscreen controls become available in the Canvas; drag these controls to perform the
selected action.
Drag a corner handle to resize the object.
Basic compositing
67% resize factor
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