Editing position graphs in After Effects is primarily done through the Graph Editor, which allows you to fine-tune the interpolation of your animation. Here's how:
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Open the Graph Editor: Select the layer with the position keyframes you want to edit. In the Timeline panel, click the Graph Editor button (it looks like a small graph) located near the top.
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Select the Position Property: In the Timeline panel (while the Graph Editor is open), twirl down the layer properties until you find the "Position" property. Click on the word "Position" itself. This will display the position graph in the Graph Editor.
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Choose Your Graph Type: The Graph Editor offers two primary graph types:
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Value Graph: This graph shows the value of the position property (X, Y, and Z, if it's a 3D layer) over time. You can adjust the value of the position at specific keyframes. To switch to Value Graph, click the "Choose Graph Type" button (looks like a graph icon) and select "Edit Value Graph". The video excerpt refers to this.
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Speed Graph: This graph shows the speed of the position change over time. It's useful for creating smooth starts and stops or more dynamic movements. To switch to Speed Graph, click the "Choose Graph Type" button and select "Edit Speed Graph".
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Manipulate the Graph: Use the handles on the keyframes and graph lines to change the interpolation.
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Value Graph: Drag the keyframes up or down to change their value. Drag the handles extending from the keyframes to adjust the ease-in and ease-out of the motion, creating smoother or more abrupt transitions.
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Speed Graph: Drag the keyframes up or down to change the maximum speed at that point. Drag the handles to change how quickly the speed changes before and after the keyframe.
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Use the Graph Editor Tools: The Graph Editor has tools to help you adjust the graph:
- Selection Tool: For selecting keyframes and handles.
- Convert Vertex Tool: For changing a smooth point to a corner point and vice versa.
- Add Keyframe Tool: For adding a new keyframe.
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Fine-tuning Tips:
- Easy Ease: Right-click on a keyframe and select "Keyframe Assistant" > "Easy Ease" (or Easy Ease In/Out) for a quick way to smooth the motion.
- Separate Dimensions: You can separate the X, Y, and Z positions into individual properties for more control. Right-click on the "Position" property in the Timeline and select "Separate Dimensions". This allows you to edit the graphs for each dimension independently.
By using the Graph Editor, you can create sophisticated and visually appealing animations with precise control over the position of your layers in After Effects.
