You can import an animated GIF into After Effects by simply dragging and dropping the file into your project window.
Importing an Animated GIF into After Effects:
- Open After Effects: Launch the software.
- Create a New Project: Go to "File" > "New" or press Ctrl+N (Windows) or Cmd+N (Mac).
- Import the GIF: Drag and drop the GIF file from your computer into the project window in After Effects.
- Locate the GIF: You'll find the imported GIF in the Project panel, usually under the "Footage" section.
- Drag and Drop: Drag the GIF from the Project panel onto the timeline in your composition to add it.
Viewing and Editing the GIF:
- Preview: Once you've added the GIF to your timeline, you can preview it by pressing the spacebar.
- Edit: You can edit the GIF as you would any other footage in After Effects. You can adjust its duration, speed, position, and more.
You can also use the "File" > "Import" menu to import the GIF.