To import files into Adobe Animate, you have two primary options, each serving a different purpose, as detailed below.
Importing to the Stage vs. the Library
The main distinction when importing in Adobe Animate is whether you're importing directly to the stage or into the library:
- Importing to the Stage: This places the file directly into your current animation on the timeline, making it immediately visible and usable.
- Importing to the Library: This adds the file to your project's library. It will not appear on the stage until you drag it from the library. The library allows for organized and reusable assets.
Steps for Importing
Here's a breakdown of the steps for each type of import:
Import to Stage
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Go to the File menu.
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Select Import.
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Choose Import to Stage.
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Navigate to and select the file you wish to import.
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Click Open.
- The imported file will now be visible and usable on your current stage and timeline.
Import to Library
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Go to the File menu.
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Select Import.
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Choose Import to Library.
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Navigate to and select the file you wish to import.
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Click Open.
- The imported file will now be in your project's library panel, where you can drag and drop it onto the stage when needed.
Summary Table
| Import Type | Menu Path | Outcome | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| To Stage | File > Import > Import To Stage | File appears directly on the stage and in the timeline | Directly using imported images, videos or other files |
| To Library | File > Import > Import To Library | File is stored in the project's library | Organizing assets for repeated use |
Additional Notes
- Remember, after importing an item to the Library, it needs to be dragged onto the Stage to be visible and integrated into the animation.
- The process is straightforward and applies to various file formats, including images, videos, audio, and other Adobe Animate files.
