How to Display Keyframes in After Effects: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating Keyframes: Unveiling the Power of After Effects Animation

In the world of animation, creating smooth and lively movements requires precise control over every aspect of the project. In After Effects, one of the key tools for achieving this goal is keyframes. They play a crucial role in animation control, defining changes in object parameters over time. In this article, we will explore the essential steps for displaying and using keyframes in After Effects, helping animators create high-quality and expressive animations.

In After Effects, displaying keyframes plays a crucial role in controlling animation and changes within a project. To get started with keyframes:

1. Select the layer: 

Click on the desired layer in your composition to select it, then expand it by clicking on the arrow next to its name.

2. Expand the “Transform” section:

Below the selected layer, locate the “Transform” section and expand it to display animation parameters such as Scale, Position, Rotation, Opacity and Anchor Point.

3. View the keyframes:

In the “Transform” section, you will see the properties of the selected layer, as well as any keyframes that have been created. Keyframes are usually indicated by small diamonds on the timeline. To view changes over time, use the slider at the bottom to navigate the timeline and see the placement of keyframes.

4. Use a shortcut:

An alternative method is to select the desired layer in your project by clicking on it with the mouse or selecting it in the composition panel, then pressing the “U” key on the keyboard. This will display all keyframes for the selected layer.

5. Preview the animation:

After editing keyframes and adjusting the animation, you can preview your work by pressing the “Spacebar” or “0” key on the numeric keypad. This will allow you to see how the animation looks in motion and make any necessary adjustments.

With keyframes in place, you’ll be able to observe changes in your project over time and edit them as needed, helping to create smooth and high-quality animation.

Conclusion

The visibility of keyframes in After Effects not only provides visual control over animation but also allows for editing and improvement over time. By using the methods described in this article, you can effectively work with keyframes, creating animations that capture the viewer’s attention and leave a lasting impression.