Moving layers after importing Illustrator files into After Effects is straightforward. You manage layer order and position within After Effects, not Illustrator.
Importing Illustrator Layers into After Effects
First, you need to import your Illustrator file into After Effects. There are several methods:
- Drag and Drop: Simply drag the AI file from your file explorer directly into the After Effects project panel.
- File > Import: Use the menu option
File > Importto browse and select your Illustrator file.
After importing, Illustrator layers are preserved as individual layers within After Effects. The specific steps mentioned in the provided references (preparing the vector file, ungrouping layers if necessary) are crucial for a smooth workflow before importing.
Managing Layers in After Effects
Once imported, you can arrange the layers in After Effects:
- Layer Selection: Click on a layer in the timeline panel to select it. Hold
Shiftto select multiple layers. - Reordering Layers: Click and drag a selected layer up or down in the timeline panel to change its stacking order (which layer is on top).
- Transforming Layers: Use the Transform tools (position, scale, rotation) in the Timeline or Composition panels to reposition layers within your composition.
Note that the method of importing and subsequent layer management remains consistent regardless of whether you are dealing with a single-layer or multi-layer Illustrator file. The core principle is to utilize After Effects's layer manipulation tools after importing, not attempting to alter layer order in Illustrator itself.
