The power of cloning

In the previous recipe, we saw how easy it was to copy and paste filters from one layer to another or to a group. Sometimes in a Motion graphics workflow, it's necessary to duplicate layers. A problem can occur when we want to change the filters on these layers. Both the duplicate and the original layers would each have to be changed manually. If you begin to change or manipulate filters several times, this can become a very tedious process. This is where cloning comes in handy. Any changes we make to filters on the original layer, the clone will follow along. As an added bonus, it also allows for better performance in Motion. Let's take a look at an example in action.

How to do it...

1. Open the 02_06 project from this chapter's project folder. This project consists of the Arrow 01 group from Motion's Content library.

2. Click on the disclosure triangle for the Arrow 01 group and reveal its content. Notice there are two filters on the group—a Colorize and Trail filter. Press...