Using Symbols and Instances > Changing instance properties

Changing instance properties

Each instance has its own properties that are separate from the symbol. You can change the tint, transparency, and brightness of an instance; redefine how the instance behaves (for example, change a graphic to a movie clip); and set how animation plays inside a graphic instance. You can also skew, rotate, or scale an instance without affecting the symbol.

In addition, you can name a movie clip instance so that you can use it in ActionScript.

To edit instance properties, you use the Instance panel (Windows > Panels > Instance) and the Effect panel (Windows > Panels > Effect).

The properties of an instance are saved with it. If you edit a symbol or relink an instance to a different symbol, any instance properties you've changed still apply to the instance.

Original symbol and two modified instances