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Changing the layer stacking order


    The Timeline window displays the layer stacking order. The uppermost layer appears at the top of the layer outline list, the second layer is immediately below it, and so on. Changing the order of footage layers modifies the appearance of your composition by repositioning footage in front of or behind other footage.

    Changing the position of an adjustment layer in the stacking order changes which layers it affects (because it affects only the layers below it). For more information, see Creating an adjustment layer.

    Note: The stacking order of 3D layers has somewhat different implications. For information, see Combining 2D and 3D layers.

To rearrange layer order:

    In the Timeline window, select the layers you want to move by name and drag up or down the stacking order.

    Note: As you drag a layer name up or down, a horizontal line appears between other layer names, indicating the position to which the layer will move if you release the mouse.

    For more information on 2D and 3D layers, see Combining 2D and 3D layers.

To move a layer to a specific position in the order:

    In the Composition or Timeline window, select the layer and do one of the following:

    • To move a layer up or down one level, choose Layer > Bring Forward or Layer > Send Backward.
    • To move a layer to the top of the composition, choose Layer > Bring to Front.
    • To move the layer to the bottom of the composition, choose Layer > Send to Back.