You can invert a mask in Adobe After Effects by using the 'Inverted' checkbox within the mask's properties.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Select the Layer: Choose the layer containing the mask you want to invert.
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Access Mask Properties: Press the 'M' key to reveal the mask properties in the Timeline panel. If you have multiple masks, you'll see a list; select the specific mask you want to modify.
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Find the 'Inverted' Checkbox: Within the mask properties, locate the "Inverted" checkbox.
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Invert the Mask: Click the "Inverted" checkbox. This will reverse the area that the mask affects. If the mask was originally cutting out a portion of the layer, it will now affect only that portion and vice-versa.
Example:
Let's say you have a layer of text and you draw a rectangular mask around it.
- Without 'Inverted' checked: The mask will reveal the text inside the rectangle and hide everything outside.
- With 'Inverted' checked: The mask will hide the text inside the rectangle and reveal everything outside.
Further Mask Adjustments:
Besides inverting, you can also adjust other mask properties like:
- Mask Path: Modifies the shape of the mask.
- Mask Feather: Softens the edges of the mask.
- Mask Opacity: Controls the transparency of the mask.
- Mask Expansion: Increases or decreases the size of the mask.
By using a combination of these properties, you can achieve complex masking effects.
