To speed up animation in the Graph Editor, you can manipulate the speed or acceleration of the animated properties. The primary way to control the rate of change and make parts of your animation happen faster is by using the Speed Graph.
According to the reference:
- You need to select the Graph Editor button and select Edit Speed Graph from the Choose graph type and options menu.
- You Use Edit Speed Graph to control the acceleration and deceleration of animations, resulting in smoother and more dynamic motion.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
Accessing the Speed Graph
- Open the Graph Editor: Locate and select the Graph Editor button in your animation software interface.
- Choose the Speed Graph: Within the Graph Editor, navigate to the "Choose graph type and options menu" and specifically select Edit Speed Graph.
Understanding the Speed Graph
Unlike value graphs (which show the property value over time), the Speed Graph displays the rate of change (speed) of the animated property over time.
- Higher points on the Speed Graph indicate the animation is moving faster at that specific point in time.
- Lower points indicate the animation is moving slower or is paused.
Manipulating Speed
Once you are viewing the Edit Speed Graph, you can speed up your animation by:
- Increasing the peak speed: Drag the handles or points on the graph upwards to make the speed curve peak higher. This means the property will change value more rapidly during that period.
- Shortening the duration of high speed: Adjust the timing of the speed curve peaks to make the periods of fast motion shorter.
- Adjusting acceleration and deceleration: The slope of the Speed Graph represents acceleration (positive slope) and deceleration (negative slope). A steeper positive slope means faster acceleration; a steeper negative slope means faster deceleration. By controlling these slopes, you influence how quickly the animation reaches its peak speed and how quickly it slows down. This control is what the reference mentions for creating smoother and more dynamic motion.
By carefully adjusting the shape of the Speed Graph, you can make the animation feel faster, more sudden, or more energetic in specific moments, directly controlling its acceleration and deceleration.
