Exchange media in a project

Exchange media in a project

You can overwrite an image layer with media from a different file in the File Browser or Library. This process, called exchanging media, replaces the layer’s original source media link with a new source media link. When you exchange a layer’s source media, the layer retains its Property Inspector parameter values (including Position, Scale, and Opacity, and Blend Mode), as well as applied filters, behaviors, masks, or keyframes.

The exchange operation lets you replace layers in your project even after you’ve modified and animated them. If you’re unhappy with an element of your composition, exchange it with a new one.

Important: You can only exchange layers that are linked to source media files on your computer or networked device. You cannot exchange Motion-generated objects such as particle systems, generators, shapes, or text objects.

Exchange media in a layer

  1. Drag a media file from the File Browser onto a layer in the Layers list.

  2. When a curved pointer appears, release the mouse button.

    Layers list showing curved pointer used to exchange a layer

The layer’s original source media is replaced by the new source media.

Exchange source media via the Media Inspector

  1. In the Media list, select the object to replace.

  2. Open the Media Inspector or HUD (heads-up display).

    Note: For information about opening the Media Inspector, see Display the Media Inspector. To open the HUD, press F7.

  3. Click Replace Media File.

  4. In the dialog that appears, navigate to the file that will replace the current source media.

  5. Click Open.

The original source media is replaced by new source media in the Media list and in any layers in the project linked to the source media.