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Using null objects


    If you want to assign a parent layer, but do not want that layer to be a visible element in your project, use a null object. A null object is an invisible layer that has all the properties of a visible layer, except opacity, so it can be a parent to any layer in the composition. (For information on parent layers, see Understanding parent layers.) Adjust and animate a null object as you would any other layer. For information on setting layer properties, see the section corresponding to the transformation you want to perform; for example, to set layer position, see Setting layer position. For information on animating layers, see Setting and animating a layer property in the Timeline window. Effects are not visible on null objects.

    A composition can contain any number of null objects. A null object is visible only in the Composition and Layer windows and appears in the Composition window as a rectangular outline with layer handles.

To create a null object:

    Select the Timeline or Composition window and choose New > Null Object.

    Note: The anchor point of a new null object layer appears in the upper left corner of the layer, and the layer is anchored in the center of the composition at its anchor point. Change the anchor point as you would for any other layer. For information on adjusting the anchor point, see Setting and animating an anchor point.