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In animation, a keyframe indicates a particular moment in time when a major change happens. This could be a change in an element’s properties, like:
- Position
- Opacity
- Rotation
- Size
- Shape
- Color
- Etc.
Using animation software like Adobe After Effects, you can add keyframes to elements on the Timeline to create dynamic movement and effects. You can add keyframes automatically or manually, depending on the movement and effects you want to apply.
Open your After Effects Project
Start a new After Effects Project or open an existing one. Select your Composition.
Change properties over time
In your Timeline, open the element you want to animate and unfurl the Transform dropdown.
Click the Time-Vary Stopwatch icon next to a property (such as Position). This will automatically create the first keyframe at the Current Time Indicator.
Move the Current Time Indicator to the next position and move the element.
Another keyframe will be created on the Timeline. After Effects will animate the element between these two keyframes as it moves from Position 1 to Position 2.
Each time you make a change to that property while the Stopwatch is running, new keyframes will be created to indicate motion. You can also add keyframes manually by clicking on the diamond-shaped Keyframe icon on the left of the Stopwatch.
To reset all the keyframes for a particular property, simply click on the Stopwatch icon again to untoggle it. This will remove all the keyframes you created for that property.
To move a keyframe, simply click and drag it on the Timeline.
How to add keyframes in Linearity Move
Let’s look at how easy it is to automatically create keyframes in Linearity Move.
Open your Linearity Move Project and make sure Animate Mode is toggled on.
Arrange your elements over time
No need to toggle any stopwatches in your Timeline Layers. You can move, resize, rotate, and change elements directly on your canvas.
Linearity Move will automatically create multiple keyframes each time you change different elements’ particular properties.
Ready for easy animation?
Keyframing is fundamental to animation. Whether you’re creating social media posts, online ads, or explainer videos, you must learn how to create and use keyframes to add motion.
You also have the power to edit motion and add effects, just like you would in After Effects.
Ready to try new and innovative animation software? Get started for free below or check out our pricing for education, pros, and teams.
Your Linearity subscription will also include our design platform Linearity Curve—a game-changing alternative to Adobe Illustrator seamlessly integrated with Linearity Move.
Jumpstart your creative ideas with Linearity Curve and Linearity Move
Frequently asked questions
What is a keyframe in animation?
A keyframe marks a specific point in time where a significant change occurs in an element's properties, like position, opacity, rotation, size, shape, or color. Keyframes are used to create dynamic movements and effects in animation.
How do I move a keyframe on the Timeline in After Effects?
To move a keyframe, simply click and drag it along the Timeline to adjust the timing of your animation.
Can I create keyframes automatically in After Effects?
After Effects allows you to create keyframes as you move elements while the Stopwatch is active. But each Stopwatch must be toggled on manually for specific properties, requiring more time and effort to achieve complex animations.
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Sharné McDonald
Sharné is a contributing writer for the Linearity Blog. She has 10+ years' experience in graphic design and marketing and holds a Master's degree in Art Education.
