Layout is a tool designed for Adobe After Effects that aids in streamlining the alignment and distribution of layers within compositions. It provides enhanced flexibility and precision compared to the native alignment tools in After Effects.

While After Effects' built-in align panel offers basic alignment and distribution functions, Layout goes beyond by providing more advanced features, precise controls, and additional tools like Grid and Collage. This makes it a more comprehensive solution for professionals looking for refined alignment capabilities.

The Align Selection tool in Layout serves to align or distribute selected layers based on a particular reference point or layer. This tool ensures precise positioning and spacing between layers, resulting in a neater and more organized composition.

Yes, Layout can consider the bounds of masks during alignment. This means that if a layer has a mask applied to it, the tool will take into account the mask's boundaries, ensuring more accurate alignment in compositions where masks are heavily used.

The Grid tool in Layout facilitates the arrangement of selected layers into a neat grid pattern. Users can specify rows, columns, and spacing between layers. This is particularly useful for designers looking to create uniform and organized compositions.

The Collage tool is designed to distribute and overlap layers randomly within a defined space. To use it, select the layers you want to collage, determine the boundaries, and let the tool work its magic. This is perfect for creating organic, randomized arrangements in your compositions.

The 'maintain layer bounds' toggle ensures that when layers are randomized using the Collage tool, they stay within the defined boundaries or workspace. This means layers won't overlap or go outside the specified area, resulting in a controlled yet randomized look.

To create looping animations with the Collage tool, start by defining the layers and boundaries. Then, use keyframes at the beginning and end of your timeline to mark the start and end points. Let the Collage tool randomize the positioning of your layers within these keyframes, ensuring that the start and end positions are identical. This will create a seamless loop when the animation is played back.

Absolutely! We value user feedback and are always looking to improve Layout. If you have suggestions or features you'd like to see added, please reach out to our support or feedback channels.