Can't See Background

[aleeshao56435791]

Hello,

I filmed talent in front of a green screen and keyed that out in After Effects. I tried to add a background using a shape layer, but all I'm seeing is black instead of the color I chose. Can someone tell me what I'm doing wrong? I've moved the shape layer above the main comp and still see nothing.

Thank you

[Roland Kahlenberg]

Is there a good reason why you need a Shape Layer? Does a Solid not provide a solution for you?
Stay away from Shape Layers for simple tasks such as this. use Shape Layers for what it was intended for - to create and animated elements. Too many users are using Shape Layers wrongly.

[aleeshao56435791]

Well, the reason was because I had seen it used on a tutorial months ago. Plus, I want to use a gradient color and the solid layer doesn't have that option.. At least as far as I know, I'm definitely not a veteran AE user.

This is good to know, though. Do you have a work-around which will allow gradient colors on a solid layer?

Thanks so much for your response, Roland

P.S. I ended up figuring out why the layer was black - the opacity was all the way down. *Rolling eyes*

[Roland Kahlenberg · Accepted solution]

Effect>Generate>Gradient Ramp or Layer>Layer Styles>Gradient Overlay will allow you to apply gradient to a Solid.

Take this general rule of thumb - only use Shape Layers if you want to create an element or to animate elements. Any time you have a choice between using a Solid or a Shape Layer, keep this in mind and you will have fewer issues to face.

[aleeshao56435791]

I really appreciate you sharing your knowledge with me. The less issues the better so I will definitely do this from now on.

Have a great day!