To add a keyframe into a timeline in Adobe Animate, you typically move the playhead to the desired point in time and then set a property value. The system will automatically create a keyframe for that property at that time.
Keyframes are fundamental building blocks in animation, marking points in time where a change in a property (like position, scale, rotation, or opacity) occurs. Adobe Animate uses a timeline to organize these keyframes and control the timing of your animations.
Based on the provided reference, a common way to add a keyframe, especially for animating object properties, involves using the property controls directly:
Move the playhead (the blue marker that indicates where you're at on your timeline) to where you want to place a keyframe and place your graphic at the desired starting position or parameter setting. Click the stopwatch next to the chosen parameter to add the first keyframe.
This method is particularly relevant when animating using the classic or object-based tweening features, where properties of instances or symbols are animated.
Step-by-Step Process (Based on Reference)
Here's a breakdown of the process described:
- Select the Object/Layer: Ensure the graphic or layer containing the element you want to animate is selected on the stage or in the Timeline panel.
- Move the Playhead: Drag the playhead (the blue vertical line with a marker at the top) in the timeline to the specific frame where you want the keyframe to be located. This is the point in time where the property value will be recorded.
- Set the Property Value: Adjust the property of the object you want to animate (e.g., change its X/Y position, rotation, scale, color effect, etc.) directly on the stage or in the Properties panel.
- Click the Stopwatch: In the Properties panel, next to the specific parameter you are animating (like Position, Rotation, Scale, etc.), click the stopwatch icon. This action initializes animation for that property and creates the first keyframe at the current playhead position, recording the property's value at that time.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Position Playhead | Move the blue playhead in the timeline. | Define the exact frame for the keyframe. |
| 2. Set Parameter | Modify the object's property (position, rotation, etc.). | Determine the value of the property at this frame. |
| 3. Click Stopwatch | Click the stopwatch icon next to the property in the Properties panel. | Create the initial keyframe and enable animation for that property. |
Beyond the Stopwatch Method
While the stopwatch method is crucial for animating specific properties on an object, Animate offers other ways to add keyframes to the layer itself:
- Insert Keyframe: Right-click directly on the desired frame in the timeline and select Insert Keyframe (F6). This creates a keyframe that copies the content and properties from the previous keyframe.
- Insert Blank Keyframe: Right-click on the desired frame and select Insert Blank Keyframe (F7). This creates a keyframe with no content, useful for introducing new elements or clearing previous ones.
- Insert Frame: Right-click and select Insert Frame (F5). This extends the duration of the previous keyframe without creating a new one or changing its properties.
Understanding these different methods allows for flexible control over your animation workflow, whether you're animating object properties or the content of layers over time.
