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Known Participant
May 9, 2023
Open for Voting

one effect many layers

  • May 9, 2023
  • 3 replies
  • 296 views

I guess Im requesting a "Node" layer, in which you can place one or a group of effects. Then, similar to the new track matte layer selector, select a Node layer to apply the contained effects.   Theoretically you could have a slider that "fades/blends" the Node layer effects with the original.  And you could apply multiple Node layer effects to a single layer and change the stacking order of the nodes.  

Unlike an adjustment layer, you can choose which layers will have the effects regardless of heirarchy. 

You wont have to copy and paste effects to multiple layers.

Using the transform effect it might simplify the need for expressions where parenting doesn't work.  

3 replies

Kevin Stohlmeyer
Community Expert
Community Expert
May 9, 2023

Hi @arkayny would you like me to move this post to After Effects?

arkaynyAuthor
Known Participant
May 9, 2023

Im so sorry.  I thought I was in the After Effects arena.  Other Compositing programs use a node structure where you drag input and output connections.  You can connect many objects to one node which can contain effects, transitions, and more.  Trying to replicate that in the layer structure of After Effects  

Kevin Stohlmeyer
Community Expert
Community Expert
May 9, 2023

Hi @arkayny you currently can apply multiple effects and filters on a smart object layer, preserving them. You can then either drag them or copy/paste them onto new smart object layers to apply:

My question is how would you apply these to various layers out of heirarcy sequence?

Are you thinking a "node layer" in which layers are then linked back to the original applying effects/filters?

Pasted onto new layer - same opacity, blend mode and filters.