Tutorial:Motion path
From Anipedia
Motion Path is a feature in Flash that not only is a visual guide but allows for an object or symbol to be attached to the guided path through the process of tweening.
In this tutorial you will learn:
- How to create a motion guide
- How to incorporate Motion tweening in a guided path.
- Various uses for motion path
[edit] Step 1: Creating a symbol
In order for an object to be influenced by a motion path it must be either an object or symbol in it's own layer attached the the motion guide layer. For this example a simple circle with softened edges will be used. After creating your object simply highlight it with the selection tool and right click it then select 'Convert to Symbol...'. Alternatively you may hit the fast key F8. Then select the type of symbol you are creating. In this instance we will be using a graphic symbol.
[edit] Step 2: Designating the Motion Guide
There are two differing methods in which a Motion Guide layer may be established. A motion guide layer must be above the layer in which your symbol is located. To create a Motion Guide layer you may either select the 'Add Motion Guide' option in your timeline. This will automatically create a new Motion Guide layer with your previously selected layer attached to it.
An alternative method is too create a new layer, draw your intended motion path (preferably with lines as single vectors help designate direction) and make that layer into a Guide layer. Then drag the layer with your symbol in it and attach it to the guide layer. You now have established a motion guide.
[edit] Step 3: Animating with Motion path
With a motion path established simply motion tween the symbol from it's starting point in the path to it's finishing point (making sure it is attached to the path). You will see it follow the path drawn in it's tween. You may add several keyframes in tween in order to help space the animation of the path so that it may fit the shape and design of it's designated path.
For differing situations it may be useful to utilize the 'Orient to Path'. If your animation involving a motion path creates an unrealistic situation, for example a character may be walking backwards, then using the 'Orient to Path' option may help in certain situations. Edit the tween by adding keyframes mid-tween and editing the animation mid tween may aid in this problem as well.
