Null Object
Create invisible control layers to parent other layers to. Organize complex animations and camera rigs.
3D
Shortcut: Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Y (Cmd+Opt+Shift+Y)Intermediate7 min readQuick Reference
Null Object
Adobe After EffectsKeyboard Shortcut
Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Ykey
Where to Find
Go to Layer > New > Null Object or press Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Y (Mac: Cmd+Opt+Shift+Y). A small transparent square appears in
Best Used For
- ▸Creating master control rigs for animations
- ▸Parenting multiple layers for group transforms
- ▸Building 3D camera and light control systems
- ▸Organizing complex compositions invisibly
Intermediate⏱ 1-2 hours to master
Key Settings
Parenting: Pick whip connection3D Enable: For camera rigsExpression Control: Slider / Checkbox
Null Objects are invisible layers that serve as control hubs for your animations. By parenting other layers to a Null Object, you can animate an entire group with a single keyframe. Null Objects are essential for camera rigging, complex character animations, and organized project structure.
Where to Find
Go to Layer > New > Null Object or press Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Y (Mac: Cmd+Opt+Shift+Y). A small transparent square appears in the Composition Panel.
How to Use
- Parenting: Use the pick whip to parent other layers to the Null Object
- Controls: Animate the Null Object to control all parented layers at once
- 3D Rigging: Create Null Object rigs for controlling 3D cameras and lights
- Organization: Use Null Objects as folders to organize complex scenes
- Expression Control: Add slider effects to Null Objects for expression-driven animations
Pro Tips
- Name your Null Objects descriptively (e.g., "Camera Control", "Rotation Master")
- Use multiple Null Objects for different control purposes
- Enable 3D on Null Objects for 3D camera rigging
- Null Objects do not render in the final output