So you want to know how to move the anchor point in After Effects? Below I will demonstrate first what is an anchor point is and different ways to move the anchor point. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how the anchor point works in After Effects.

What is an anchor point in After Effects ?
An anchor point in After Effects is a one pixel area that determines where an image/layer rotates or scales from (see the image below). It is also sometimes called a pivot point.
After Effects Anchor Point


How to Move the Anchor Point in After Effects?
There are different ways to move the anchor point in After Effects. Below are the different methods you can use.

Method 1 – Move the anchor point anywhere
– Select your layer
– Press Y on your keyboard to turn on the Pan Behind Tool
– Click on the anchor point and drag it where you need it
– Press V to switch back to the regular selection tool.

move anchor point after effects

Tips: Move your anchor point before you animate your layer.

Method 2 – Center the Anchor point on a layer
This method comes in handy when you don’t know exactly where the center of your layer is.
– Select your layer
– Press Y
–  Hold CTRL on your keyboard and move the anchor point to the center. It should snap to the center of the layer.
– Press V to switch back to the regular selection tool.

center the anchor point in after effects

Method 3 – Move the anchor point on X or Y axis in after effects
– Select your layer
– Press Y
–  Hold SHIFT or CTRL on your keyboard and move vertically or horizontally, the anchor point should snap to the X axis or Y axis and move along.
– Press V to switch back to the regular selection tool.

move anchor along the axis in after effects

Method 4 – Move the Anchor point accurately
Sometimes you will need to move your anchor point manually to obtain more accuracy.

– Select your layer
– Press A
– On your timeline you should be able to see the anchor point.
– Drag the xy numbers or add the numbers you need.

manually move anchor point in after effects

Method 5 – Move multiple anchor points in after effects

To move multiple anchor points in After Effects you will need to download and install this this script
 (see demo below).

move multiple anchor points after effects

Video speak better so here the best way to move or center an anchor point  in After Effects below.

Feel free to let me know if you haven’t found the information you need. I will gladly add it to this page.

Good luck!