Shape layer issues

Hi @mr3746448219o4,

Thank you for bringing up these issues. Shape layers in After Effects are unique in that they can contain a potentially unlimited number of vector graphics/groups. To facilitate this, each shape and group inside a Shape layer has its own set of Transforms so that each can be placed/animated independently.

For your first item: you are correct—using the Size parameter for the lowest-level parameter shape (Rectangle, Ellipse, etc) will always scale from the center of the Shape. It is not aware of any of the Anchor Points above it in the Shape layer hierarchy.

For your second item: yes, moving the Anchor Point of a Shape Transform (for a Shape Group) does appear to move the Shape itself. This is also the case with Layer Transform. This is due to the nature of the Anchor Point as the point where the shape or layer "connects" to the layer or composition space that contains it. In order to move the Anchor Point without moving the layer, you need to use the Pan Behind tool to move the Anchor Point in the Composition panel. This will adjust both the Anchor Point and the Position to keep the shape in the same location while the Anchor Point moves. This works with both Shape Transforms Anchor Points as well as Layer Transform Anchor Points.

For your third item: for clarity, are you referring to needing to twirl open the Shape layer down to the parametric shape to right-click it and select "Convert To Bezier Path"? If so, simplifying/reducing the number of clicks to do so would be a great feature request. Please create a thread for this under Ideas if you are so inclined, as it would help us track interest and facilitate a conversation on how it could work.

Additionally, you can enable "Bezier Path" in the toolbar with the Shape or Pen tools activated to draw bezier paths instead of parametric shapes. 

Thanks again,

- John, After Effects Engineering Team