One video running under multiple scenes?

Question

Hi — I'm having a frustrating problem that should be a simple thing, but I can't figure out how to do it. I need to make an Instagram Reel with one video running in the background the entire time, and animated text elements on top. I've been using Photoshop and Illustrator forever, so I'm familiar with layers. I understand the layers in each individual scene, but what I need is layers/tracks in the timeline. One underneath with the video running the full length, and scenes on top of it with my different text elements. I know this can be done because I saw it in a sample file, but I can't figure out how to make one. I've looked in help docs and tutorials and can't find it anywhere, just lots of info on the layers within a scene. I'm using Safari on a Mac, newest operating system, if it matters.

thejanebradbury · Answer

Hello Alexandra, unlike video in Photoshop where you have multiple layers in the timeline Adobe Express doesn't do that. We have one video timeline, so yes it can be confusing.

For what you want to achieve set up your video and your first text elements

Open the Edit timeline and also click on Show layer timing.

In the layer stack or on the canvas click one of your text elements and you'll see the layer now has handles in the timeline. This is where you control the timing and visibility of your text elements. In my example below I've got 3 layers in this scene that animate on at different times. when you move the playhead you see little dots to tell you where they start. The solid blue is the current layer I am animating and if I click that I'll get the handles to edit it - the screenshot won't let me show both at the same time.

So effectively, you move the playhead along and set each layer to the length you want it to show. To select the layer you want to edit in the timeline you click on the actual element in the canvas or in the layer stack.

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