Specify a delay time in frame animations

Last updated on Oct 27, 2025

Learn how to set the display duration for individual frames or multiple frames simultaneously in Adobe Photoshop.

When creating frame animations in Photoshop, controlling the timing between frames is essential for achieving the right visual effect. The delay time determines how long each frame appears before moving to the next one, allowing you to create smooth transitions or emphasize specific moments in your animation.

Delay times are measured in seconds, with fractions displayed as decimal values (for example, 0.25 seconds equals one-quarter of a second). Setting appropriate delay times helps control the pace of your animation and can dramatically affect how viewers perceive motion. Once you set a delay for the current frame, Photoshop will apply that same delay value to any new frames you create afterward.

Select one or more frames in the Timeline panel.

Select the delay time value displayed below the selected frames to open the delay time menu.

Select a preset delay time from No delay, 0.1 seconds, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, and more, or select Other to add a custom delay time. The new delay time will be applied to all selected frames. You'll see the updated value displayed below each frame.

You can set different delay times for various parts of your animation to create effects like acceleration, deceleration, or to emphasize specific moments. For example, use shorter delays for fast-moving sections and longer delays when you want viewers to focus on a particular frame.

Tip

For smoother animations, use consistent delay times throughout most of your animation. Only vary the timing when you specifically want to create an effect like acceleration or to emphasize a particular moment.