To navigate or move frame by frame in After Effects, you can either drag the Current Time Indicator (CTI) or use keyboard shortcuts.
Moving frame by frame is essential for precise editing, animation, and review within your composition. It allows you to examine each individual moment of your video or animation sequence.
Moving Through Your Timeline Frame by Frame
There are two primary ways to accurately step through your composition one frame at a time.
Method 1: Dragging the Current Time Indicator (CTI)
This visual method provides direct feedback as you scrub through your timeline.
- Open the Time Navigator: Go to the top of the Timeline panel and click on the Current Time Indicator (CTI).
- Drag the CTI: Click and drag the CTI left or right to move frame by frame. This allows you to visually inspect each frame as you slide the indicator across the timeline.
Method 2: Utilizing Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts offer a quick and efficient way to jump exactly one frame forward or backward.
- To move one frame forward: Press the Page Down key or the Right Arrow key on your keyboard.
- To move one frame backward: Press the Page Up key or the Left Arrow key on your keyboard.
These shortcuts are universal for navigating frame by frame in After Effects timelines.
Quick Reference: Frame Navigation
| Method | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Current Time Indicator | Click and drag CTI left or right | Provides visual scrubbing |
| Keyboard Shortcut | Press Page Down or Right Arrow |
Moves 1 frame forward |
| Keyboard Shortcut | Press Page Up or Left Arrow |
Moves 1 frame backward |
Using a combination of these methods allows you to easily review your animation and footage with frame-level precision.
