Track Matte

[KATHLEEN27972329rqo1]

I just updated my After Effects to 23.1.0. I want to use an adjustment layer as the track matte for my text layers but, when I go to the pulldown list in the track matte mode the adjustment layer is gray. I can select any other layer in the project to serve as the matte except my adjustment layer. Can anyone in this community give me some advice please?

[Rick Gerard]

You can't use an adjustment layer as a track matte. Adjustment layers have no pixels; they only hold effects. You will need to use a shape layer, another text layer, an image, a video, or a solid as your track matte.

[KATHLEEN27972329rqo1]

Thank you. In the previous version I used to create an adjustment layer and made a mask then used the track matte mode on my text layer and chose adjustment layer. I guess this is no longer an option? I tried shape layer and that worked. Thanks again.

[Rick Gerard]

You can put a mask on an Adjustment Layer and use that to control where the effects are applied. For example, if you put a Red Fill on an adjustment layer and add a mask, the Red Fill will only be applied to the area of the comp included in the mask. Adjustment layers have no pixels, neither do Nulls. You have never been able to use an Adjustment Layer or a Null as a track matte. It makes no sense. Never did.

[suzerduder]

She's right! Since an update last year I've no longer been able to do the exact thing she's describing. I can prove it because when I import projects that I worked on the previous version they open with the track matte attached but if I disconnect it I can't reconnect. 

[Mylenium]

Agree with Rick. Trying to use an adjustment layer as a track matte makes absolutely no sense.

Mylenium