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extendscriptafter-effects

Can ExtendScript replace a FootageItem with an Illustrator file and specify a certain layer?

In AfterEffects, I can right click on a file in the Project panel, then select "Replace Footage". After choosing an Illustrator file, the window below appears, which allows me to select a particular layer from that Illustrator file.

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Is it possible to replace a FootageItem using ExtendScript and specify a certain layer of an Illustrator file?

Basics on the documentation, I've only found the FootageItem.replace( ) method. However, when I use this method, I'm unable to specify a layer of the Illustrator file.

Solution

  • From the scripting guide:

    app.project.item(index).layer(index).replaceSource (newSource, fixExpressions)

    Description:
    Replaces the source for this layer.

    Parameters:

    newSource
    The new source AVItem object.

    fixExpressions
    True to adjust expressions for the new source, false otherwise. Note that this feature can be resource-intensive; if replacing a large amount of footage, do this only at the end of the operation. See also "Project autoFixExpressions() method" on page 115.

    Returns: Nothing.

    So I guess you should do two steps.

    1. Import your .ai file via new ImportOptions(file);
    2. replace the source of your AVLayer