How to Import SVG File in After Effects?

Importing Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) files into Adobe After Effects with layers preserved for animation typically requires a specific workflow, as native SVG import often rasterizes the graphic. The goal is to bring your vector artwork from programs like Adobe Illustrator into After Effects in a way that allows you to control and animate individual elements and maintain crisp edges at any scale.

Based on common workflows and the provided reference, a method that achieves this outcome involves preparing your SVG file in a vector editing application and then importing it into After Effects using a process that supports layer preservation. The reference highlights the result of such a successful import: the layers from your vector file appear "neatly labeled just like I had them in illustrator," and you "can animate all of the individual layers."

While the reference mentions importing an .Spvg file type (potentially indicating a specific plugin or workflow), the core steps to achieve a layered, animatable SVG in After Effects generally involve:

Steps for Importing SVG with Layers

To successfully import an SVG file into After Effects while maintaining its layer structure and vector properties, follow these general steps:

1. Prepare Your SVG File:

   • Open your SVG file in a compatible vector editing software like Adobe Illustrator.
   • Ensure your artwork is organized into distinct layers for each element you wish to animate independently.
   • Name your layers clearly and concisely. The reference notes that imported layers appear "neatly labeled just like I had them in illustrator," emphasizing the importance of this preparation step.
   • Save the file. Often, saving as an Adobe Illustrator (.ai) file is a reliable method for transferring layered vector graphics to After Effects.

2. Import the Prepared File into After Effects:

   • In After Effects, go to File > Import > File... (or use Ctrl+I / Cmd+I).
   • Select the .ai file you prepared from your SVG (or potentially the .Spvg file mentioned in the reference if you are using a specific tool that generates or handles this format).
   • In the import options dialog, choose Import Kind: Composition - Retain Layer Sizes. This is crucial for maintaining your layer structure and allowing individual layer manipulation.

3. Work with the Imported Layers:

   • After importing, After Effects creates a new composition and places the vector file's layers within it, "neatly labeled" according to your original setup.
   • Open this new composition. You will find all the individual layers from your vector file ready for use.
   • You now "can animate all of the individual layers" by manipulating their properties (Position, Scale, Rotation, Opacity, etc.) or adding effects.
   • To ensure layers remain sharp and scalable like vectors within After Effects, enable Continuously Rasterize for each vector layer by clicking the sun icon/star icon in the layer's Switches panel.

4. Utilize the Composition:

   • The reference concludes by mentioning that "all I need to do is just drag the pre-m" (likely referring to dragging the newly created composition or the imported item itself) into your main After Effects composition or timeline. This allows you to incorporate your layered, animatable SVG into your larger project.

This process ensures that your vector artwork remains scalable and editable on a layer-by-layer basis within After Effects, aligning with the capabilities described in the provided reference. Using dedicated plugins like Overlord (which links Illustrator and After Effects) can further streamline this workflow, often transferring shapes directly as native After Effects shape layers.