ABSTRACT
Shape layers are one of the most versatile graphic creation tools inside After Effects. In addition to creating paths using the Pen and Shape tools, After Effects provides several other ways to create or borrow shape paths from other sources such as text layers, masks, or Illustrator files. The expression pick whip may be used to link together mask paths, paint strokes, and shapes that were created with the Pen tool. Parametric shape paths cannot be pasted or expressed to other path types. Not all shapes need to enclose a space – the user can also create open paths to use as strokes, map lines, and other graphical elements. Choose different colors for Fill and Stroke, and set Stroke Width to a generous number such as 12 pixels. When motion graphics artists hear the word “gradients” they often visualize boring business presentations.
