Overview of animating layer properties

In Photoshop, keyframes allow you to animate layer properties such as Position, Opacity, and Style. Each property can change independently or in combination with others, giving you control over complex animations. Place each object on a separate layer for best results when animating multiple objects.

To animate a property:

• Set at least two keyframes for the property. Changes made without two keyframes will remain static for the duration of the layer.
• Select the Time‑Vary stopwatch <insert icon here> icon next to the property to begin animation. When active, Photoshop automatically creates new keyframes whenever you adjust the property at a different point in time.

Examples of Animatable Properties:

• Position: Add a keyframe to the Position property, move the current time indicator, and drag the layer to a new location in the document window.
• Opacity: Add a keyframe to the Opacity property, move the current time indicator, and adjust the opacity in the Layers panel.
• 3D properties: Animate object or camera positions for 3D layers. (See Create 3D animations for details.)

When the stopwatch is inactive:

• Any typed value remains for the duration of the layer.
• Deselecting the stopwatch permanently deletes all keyframes for that property.

Using keyframes effectively allows for precise, dynamic animations, giving your projects a professional and polished look.