Masking and Shape Hinting
Mask Layers
p. 194-196 and info on importing bitmaps p. 460-470
Mask layers are layers that hide and show elements on underlying layers. Mask layers become “holes” that let items on linked layers show through.
· Create a new layer in the Timeline or select a layer that already exists. This should be a layer directly above the layer containing the content (picture) you want to mask.
· Control click the layer to access the menu and choose Mask
· The layer is now identified as a mask, it is linked to the layer beneath it, and locks both layers (so masking is in effect)
To Create the Mask
· Unlock the Mask Layer
· Select the Layer to activate it, and click on the first frame
· Draw an object – a single shape, a graphic objects, a group, a symbol or a static text box
· Animate the object
To See the Mask’s effects
· Lock the Mask Layer and all layers linked to it manually, or do this by using the context menu
To Edit a Mask
· Select the Mask layer
· Make sure the layer is visible and unlocked
· Use any techniques to edit objects and fills
Frame Rate (pages 17, 268-270)
Set it using the Modify menu…Document…Enter a new number under Frame Rate, and click OK
Frame rate controls how fast Flash delivers the images in an animation. Too fast and it looks like a blur; too slow and viewer sees movement as jerky.
Standard frame rates:
· For film (video) is 24 fps
· For Internet, 12 fps (the default in Flash)
You can also alter the speed of the animation by adding in-between frames to your animation – or by deleting them.
Morphing Simple Lines and Fills
Follow the handout from Week 4 regarding Shape Tweening. Try it with lines as well as fills.
Shape Hints (start on page 312, 313-315)
This is a little challenging, but if you do it right it can really improve Shape Tweening! Follow the instructions on pages 312-314 using the same type of image. Basic instructions:
· To add shape hints, select the first frame of your shape tween.
· Modify…Shape…Shape Hints.
· Select a “problem spot” to move the Shape Hint to. Scrub through your problematic shape tween until you really see a “blob” problem and start there.
· Place shape hints in a counter-clockwise order for best results.
· When you have placed all your Shape Hints, go to the last frame in the Shape Tween. You will see all the Shape Hints in the center, in the same position.
· Drag each shape hint to the position you put it in originally (in the first frame). Keep them in the same order (counterclockwise) for best results.
· Evaulate the improvement.
· You can fine tune in Onion Skin mode. You may need to reposition the Shape Hint in BOTH the first and last frames.
· Problems? See the Tips.
· This is worth playing with!
