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Understanding 3D layer order


    Because of their depth properties, After Effects 3D layers can be placed behind or in front of each other in the Composition window, but they do not change their position in the Timeline window layer hierarchy. Therefore, the layer order of After Effects 3D layers in the Timeline window does not necessarily represent their order in the Composition window (as would happen with 2D layers).

    In addition to determining the actual positioning of the layers, the order in the Composition window also determines how Transfer Modes work. Transfer Modes affect only layers positioned behind the original layer (the layer to which the Transfer Mode is applied) in the Composition window.

    However, layer order in the Timeline window is still honored when you use Track Mattes. Track Mattes work only between layers that are adjacent in the Timeline window.

    Use the additional views available from the 3D View menu to determine the actual position of the 3D layers. For more information on 3D views, see Understanding 3D views.