Modifying a Motion Path - Adobe After Effects Tutorial

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Modifying a motion path is simple to learn and can be mastered in a short amount of time. The first method I want to show is how to move a keyframe. We first open the composition and timeline window to reveal the layer we want to modify. In this lesson we'll be modifying a short plane flying animation.

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To modify the motion path, first press the letter P to open Position.

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If you have trouble finding the keyframe that needs changing, move the time marker to the part of the animation that needs to be modified.

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In the composition window use the Selection tool to move the keyframe marker or the control handles. This will make the change in the motion path.

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If you want to add a keyframe, you can do it by moving the plane within the comp window. Select the time marker and move it to a new position where there is not a keyframe. In the comp window make the movement or adjustment to the plane and this will add the new keyframe.

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You can also add a keyframe using the Add Point pen tool.

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You must add a new keyframe on the motion path at one of the points in the path

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If you want to move all the points in the path simultaneously, you would click on the word Position to select all of the keyframes.

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In the comp window click on a keyframe and drag to a new position and watch the entire animation move.

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Finally, if you want to rotate a layer along a path, select the animated layer. Choose Layer>Transform and Auto-Orient.

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Now choose Orient Along Path. To deactivate, simply check the Off button.

Thank you.