To copy keyframes in Maya using the timeline, you select them with a box, copy them, and then paste them where desired. This method is quick and effective for transferring animation data on a selected object or attribute.
Easy Steps to Copy Keyframes
Copying keyframes in Maya is a fundamental task for animators. The most direct way, especially for keyframes visible on your timeline, involves a simple selection and context menu process.
Here’s a breakdown of the exact steps:
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Select the Keyframes:
- Hold down the Shift key.
- Using your Left Mouse Button (LMB), click and drag a box over the keyframes you want to copy on the timeline.
- You will see a bright red selection box appear as you drag. Ensure the box covers all the keyframes you intend to copy.
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Copy the Keyframes:
- Once the keyframes are selected, Right-click anywhere within the timeline where you made your selection.
- From the context menu that appears, click on 'Copy'. The selected keyframes are now stored in Maya's clipboard.
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Paste the Keyframes:
- Navigate to the desired frame or location on the timeline where you wish to paste the keyframes.
- Right-click somewhere else on the timeline at the target location.
- From the context menu, click on 'Paste'.
Maya will paste the copied keyframes starting from the frame where you right-clicked for pasting. The spacing and relative timing of the copied keyframes will be preserved.
Summary Table: Copying Keyframes
| Action | How to Perform | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Select | Hold Shift + LMB drag over keyframes | Keyframes are highlighted in red. |
| Copy | Right-click on selected keyframes > 'Copy' | Keyframes are copied to the clipboard. |
| Paste | Right-click on target frame on timeline > 'Paste' | Keyframes are placed starting there. |
This method is ideal for copying keyframes from one section of the timeline to another for the currently selected object or attribute visible on the timeline. For more complex scenarios involving multiple objects or attributes, or editing specific curves, the Graph Editor offers advanced tools for selection, copying, and pasting keyframes and animation curves.
