how to open shape controls for bezier handles

Forum|Forum|2 years ago
July 8, 2023
2 replies
1034 views

I am unsure how to open the rectangle box that is supposed to be around the shape layer so I can alter it with the bezier handles. Help greatly appreciated.

This topic has been closed for replies.

Correct answer ShiveringCactus

From your screenshot, I'm guessing the shape you want to change is the shadow layer. Expand that on the time and you should see a Contents section. Expand that to see something like Shape1 and expand that to see Path1 and then again to see Path.

Select the Path property with a stopwatch and in your comp window, you'll see something very similar to what Andrew shared. If you don't see a bounding box, using the Select tool, click near the line but not on it. The bounding box will appear. Now click on one of the points on your line (this can be tricky as you can end up easily selecting all the points) but when you manage it, you'll see the bezier handles.

If you're still struggling after all that, I shared a Curvy Arrow preset a while back which works with the Point Control expressions - you might find it simple enough to adapt:

https://youtu.be/Hem4eWIgseQ

Andrew Yoole

Inspiring

1 - Select any element of the Shape layer in the timeline window to get the bounding box.

2 - Then select any of the path's anchor points in the preview window to reveal the bezier handles etc.

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ArkhamGamesAuthor

Known Participant

the above picture I posted is with the shape layer selected, but there is no rectangle around it to manipulate the size. everything just looks unselected.

Thankyou for your reply!

ShiveringCactus

Correct answer

Community Expert

From your screenshot, I'm guessing the shape you want to change is the shadow layer. Expand that on the time and you should see a Contents section. Expand that to see something like Shape1 and expand that to see Path1 and then again to see Path.

Select the Path property with a stopwatch and in your comp window, you'll see something very similar to what Andrew shared. If you don't see a bounding box, using the Select tool, click near the line but not on it. The bounding box will appear. Now click on one of the points on your line (this can be tricky as you can end up easily selecting all the points) but when you manage it, you'll see the bezier handles.

If you're still struggling after all that, I shared a Curvy Arrow preset a while back which works with the Point Control expressions - you might find it simple enough to adapt:

https://youtu.be/Hem4eWIgseQ