You can open the Node view in Toon Boom Harmony using one of two primary methods, which are essential for managing your animation's structure and compositing flow.
The Node view displays the connections between different elements in your scene, such as drawing layers, effects, and compositing operations. The organization and order of the nodes determines the flow of data during the compositing process and how your animation elements will be composited.
Here are the two ways to access it:
Methods to Open Node View
There are two straightforward ways to open the Node view in Toon Boom Harmony:
1. Using the Top Menu
The quickest way for many users is via the software's main menu bar.
- Step 1: Look at the very top of your Toon Boom Harmony window for the main menu options (File, Edit, View, etc.).
- Step 2: Click on the Windows menu.
- Step 3: From the dropdown list that appears, select Node View.
The Node view panel will then open, usually docking itself in a convenient location within your workspace.
2. Using the Add View Button
Alternatively, you can add the Node view from within any existing view panel in Harmony.
- Step 1: Locate the small Add View button (often represented by a
+icon) typically found in the tab area of any open view panel (like the Camera view, Timeline view, etc.). - Step 2: Click the Add View button.
- Step 3: A list of available views will appear. Select Node from this list.
This action will open the Node view, often as a new tab within the panel where you clicked the button, or as a floating window depending on your workspace setup.
Why is the Node View Important?
Understanding the Node view is crucial for complex scenes and professional workflows.
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Data Flow Control | The connections between nodes dictate how visual data travels from source (drawings) to output. | Enables precise control over compositing order and effects application. |
| Compositing Structure | It provides a visual map of how different animation layers and effects are combined. | Helps organize complex scenes and troubleshoot visual issues. |
| Effect Management | Allows you to insert, modify, and connect various effects (like blurs, glows, color corrections) to layers. | Offers flexibility in enhancing the look of your animation. |
By opening and using the Node view, you gain powerful control over the visual output of your animation projects in Toon Boom Harmony.
