5

Improving Performance When Using Filters
In large projects with complex motion graphics, applying multiple filters can adversely
affect your computer’s performance. To ensure smooth playback, there are several things
you can do to optimize your use of filters. When multiple layers are affected by a filter,
rather than applying the filter multiple times, place the targeted layers in a single group
and apply the filter to the group. When applying filters to very large 2D groups (such
as a group containing a growing particle system), select the Fixed Resolution checkbox
in the Group Inspector. When Fixed Resolution is enabled, layers in the group that
expand beyond the edges of the Canvas are cropped, reducing the processing load on
your computer. For more information, see Fixing the Size of a Group.
Adjusting Filters
After you apply a filter to an object, the filter is represented in the following places in the
Motion project window, allowing you to make adjustments:
• In the Layers list, underneath the object it was applied to, where you can select the
filter, turn its effect on or off, or lock it to prevent modification
• In the Timeline layers list, underneath the object it was applied to, where you can select
the filter, turn its effect on or off, or lock it to prevent modification
• In the Timeline track area, as a purple bar underneath the blue bar of the object it was
applied to, where you can select the filter and modify its timing by slipping or trimming
the bar
990 Chapter 19 Using Filters