__How do you (A) select one node on a vector path, and (B) reveal a logo as if drawing?

[Hugh Betcha]

I want to make a video that looks like I'm creating a logo 'live', in that I'm tracing the perimeter gradually. (The logo is a word - PACNX) So I have each letter divided in segments of paths, that I'll 'grow' by morphing... I hope to have different segments of each letter starting at the same time, to complete at the end... I did an example. In the video, the top two lines are what I want, but the bottom line isn't ; I'm having a devil of a time selecting only one node to extend it - it normally selects the whole line (which is not what I want).

I guess the other option is some kind of funky animated mask to reveal the linear part of the logo to 'build' it, then fade to the final 'filled' version

[Mylenium]

You can find any number of "growing vines" and "logo reveal" tutorials on the subject matter. the rest is just AE's clunky, ailing mask system.

Mylenium

[Hugh Betcha]

Good advice, thanks. AE has an astonishing amount of capabilities, as I'm finding.

[Rick Gerard]

Just about anything you have ever seen in a commercial or movie can be composited in After Effects. Throw in a 3D app or some 3rd party plug-ins like Element 3D and there is not much that can't be done with AE. It's not always the fastest or most efficient workflow, but for the price, there is nothing out there that is more versatile or powerful. Unfortunately, like any other compositing app that is more than a one trick pony, the UI, and the workflow can get pretty complicated. A lot of time must be spent studying to use AE efficiently.

[Hugh Betcha]

So true - it's a blessing and a curse. As a creative guy, it''s an embarrassment of riches, but too many choices and variables!