Identifying memory-intensive layers in a composition
After Effects renders each frame of a composition one layer at a time. This means that the memory requirement of each individual layer is more important than the duration of the composition or the number of layers in the composition. The memory requirement for a composition is equivalent to the memory requirement for the most memory-intensive single layer in the composition. For example, it generally takes less memory to render 30 layers at NTSC resolution than two layers at motion-picture film resolution. The memory requirements of a layer increase in the following situations: - When you use larger image sizes.
- When you add a mask in After Effects.
- When the source of a layer is a composition. When a layer contains a composition, everything in that composition must be rendered before the next layer, so look for memory-intensive layers within that composition.
- When you apply certain plug-in effects or transfer options, especially those that combine the layer with other layers. For example, After Effects must set aside an additional memory buffer for the Set Channels effect.
- When you apply certain output options, such as 3:2 pulldown, cropping, and stretching.
- When you add shadows or depth of field.
- When you use 16 bpc (approximately doubles memory requirement).
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