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Imported TIFF Sequence With Layer Masks

Participant ,
Sep 29, 2025 Sep 29, 2025

I have a bunch of TIFF files I batch-processed in PS that include layer masks. I've imported these into AE as a TIFF Sequence, but apparently, AE can't render the layer masks correctly. It does not produce the desired effect. 

 

Before I go batch-process each TIFF file again, applying the layer mask, is there something else I should try?

 

Interpret Footage/Main Options tab doesn't allow me to select anything within the Alpha section; all the options are grayed out. 

I'm pretty sure AE can render PS files with layer masks, and I believe I've done it before. Why not TIFF files?

What am I missing?

Thanks.


 

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How to , Import and export
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Contributor ,
Sep 29, 2025 Sep 29, 2025

TIFFs can be funny and use alpha differently than other formats like PSD and PNG.  When you save a TIFF normally, there’s an options dialog and a disabled-by-default checkbox “Save Transparency”. If you’re using Photoshop Actions to batch output files, you’ll need to find a way to set that option as well.

 

It may be easier to use another format like PNG, unless someone else can chime in with a way to set the TIFF options through Actions.

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Participant ,
Sep 29, 2025 Sep 29, 2025

Thanks, sskaz.

I should have mentioned I'm using the latest and greatest versions of AE and PS. 

I did a test and placed just ONE of the TIFF files (with a layer mask) into an AE comp, and it works fine. AE knows what to do with that layer mask, no problem.

So, unless someone knows what to do with an entire TIFF sequence with layer masks, it looks like I'll have to batch process again, applying the layer mask or saving the files as a PNG or PSD. 

 

Thanks again.

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Adobe Employee ,
Sep 29, 2025 Sep 29, 2025

Hi,

Thanks for posting the issue. It might be a known issue, but I would need the product team to confirm. I'll let them know. Sorry for the trouble.

 

Thanks,
Kevin

 

Kevin Monahan - Sr. Community & Engagement Strategist – Pro Video and Audio
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Participant ,
Sep 29, 2025 Sep 29, 2025

FWIW: I tried a sequence of PSD files, with a layer mask. AE doesn't render the mask edge or the background correctly at all. It looks worse than the TIFF sequence.

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Adobe Employee ,
Sep 30, 2025 Sep 30, 2025
LATEST

Hi Thomas,

 

Would you mind sharing the PSD sequence so we can attempt to reproduce the issue on our end? Feel free to share via DM if you prefer not to share them publicly.

Looking forward.


Thanks,
Nishu

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