What is the Null objects in the After Effects
Null Object in the After Effects is an Empty layer type that doesn't have a visible appearance but it used as a control point or reference point for other layers(this mean as a joints). Null Objects are useful for organizing and controlling the animation of other layers. With this article you will learn what is the Null Object is?, how to create it?, and its main advantages, especially when working with character animation:
What is the Null Object?
A Null Object is a layer in After Effects that has no visible content but it used for transformations, such as position, rotation, and scale. It acts as a control point that can be used to manipulate other layers.
How to Create a Null Object:
1- Right-click in the timeline.
2- Choose "New" > "Null Object" then ok.
3- Adjust Properties: You can adjust properties such as position, rotation, and scale for the Null Object.
Where we can Use the Null Objects?
1- Joints and Pivots:
Place Null Objects at the joints or pivots of your character. For example, if you have a character's arm, you might place a Null Object at the shoulder joint.
2- Parenting:
Parent the visual layers of your character (such as limbs or body parts) to the corresponding Null Objects. This establishes a hierarchical relationship, so when you move or rotate the Null Object, the connected layers move accordingly.
3- Animation Control:
Use Null Objects as control points for animation. Instead of animating individual layers, you can animate the Null Objects to control the overall movement of a section of your character.
4- Organization:
Null Objects help keep your composition organized. They act as a way to group and control multiple layers associated with a specific part of your character.
Main Advantages of Using Null Objects
1- Hierarchical Control: Null Objects allow you to set up a hierarchical structure for your character.
2- Simplified Keyframing: Keyframing the movement of Null Objects simplifies the animation process, especially for characters with multiple parts.
3- Centralized Control: By animating Null Objects, you centralize the control of character movements, providing a more efficient workflow.
In summary, Null Objects in After Effects are more important for character animation. They provide a way to organize, control, and animate complex characters efficiently, making the animation process more manageable.
