Need Help with Masking in Shape Layers

Question

Hello,

I am having an issue masking an image in AE using a shape layer. I am trying to make the image hide behind the mask until it begins to animate where I've added keyframes. When it begins to animate/move, I want it to come out from behind the mask.

My problem is that I don't understand how to make the object hidden as it shows through the mask before it starts the animation. I've tried inverting the mask and also tried subtracting in the mask while it is placed over the object. Also, the track matte is connected to the object's layer.

I know I am missing something and any help is much appreciated. Thanks!

Rick Gerard · Answer

You should be using Track Matte instead of putting a mask on the layer you want to move. You could duplicate the layer with the mask, delete the mask on the bottom layer, and then set the duplicate with the mask as an Alpha track matte for the animated layer.

If you don't understand those instructions please type track matte in the search help field in the top right corner of After Effects and you'll be directed to the appropriate section of the user guide.

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