After Effects On the Spot[c] Time-Saving Tips and Shortcuts from the Pros

Using blending modes with 3D layers is a very different experience. There are SEVERAL new rules to keep in mind when you promote a layer to 3D.

• Use 3D Comp Views to determine actual order in Z-space. The order in the Timeline window does not change.

• When using the Standard 3D rendering plug-in, only those layers behind will be affected by the blending mode

• When using the Advanced 3D rendering plug-in, the mode is applied pixel-by-pixel. In other words intersection is taken into account. This produces more accurate blending.

• Layer Order in the Timeline window still affects track mattes. The layers must still be adjacent, however this may lead to unexpected results. Consider pre- composing the two layers (but don't collapse).