Motion Path Layer - Page 2

Yet another way to influence the tween of a symbol is done by using a motion path layer to create a path along which tweened instances, groups or text blocks can be animated. Multiple layers can be linked to a motion guide in order to have multiple objects follow the same path. In order to create a motion path, select the layer containing the animation. Then select 'Insert > Motion Guide' from the menu options. Flash will create a new layer with a motion guide icon to the left of the layer's name to signify the motion guide. Use the Pencil, Pen, Circle, Line, Rectangle, or Brush tool to draw the desired path for the symbol to follow.

The next step can cause a little frustration for some users, until they get the hang of this feature. 'Snap' the center to the beginning of the line in the first frame, and to the end of the line in the last frame. In order to have it snap into place you select the object; when you do you'll notice that there are two lines in the very center of the object. Click here and once you are on the motion tween line it will in fact snap to it very noticeably and then you know it is done correctly. If you want to hide the motion guide layer and the line that it follows, simply click on the eye column to make the layer not viewable and therefore the path for the motion guide will not be viewable. If you want to link other layers that are already created to the motion guide you can drag the layer below the motion guide layer. You will notice that the layer becomes indented under the motion guide layer. All objects on this layer will automatically snap to the motion guide.

To 'unlink' a layer from a motion guide, select the layer you want to unlink and either drag the layer above the motion guide layer, or choose Modify > Layer and select normal as the layer type in the Layer properties dialog box.

Flash 5: Part 3 - Tweening
Flash 5 Tutorial: Part 1
Shape Tween - Page 3