Javascript

Javascript is the scripting language used by After Effects for accessing many of the applications features.

Programming References

 * The only official javascript scripting guide exists on Adobe's site.
 * After Effects Javascript API documents common functions used.

Using Javascript for Adobe After Effects
Javascript can be used in variety of ways.


 * Script files put in the *\Adobe After Effects CS4\Support Files\Scripts folder will appear in File>Scripts Menu within AE.


 * Script files residing in the *\Adobe After Effects CS4\Support Files\Scripts\Startup folder will be executed at when AE starts.


 * Script files can also be run when shutting down AE when placed in *\Adobe After Effects CS4\Support Files\Scripts\Shutdown.


 * Properly written script files located in *\Adobe After Effects CS4\Support Files\Scripts\\ScriptUI Panels folder will appear as a panel option in the Window menu item of AE.


 * Script files can be loaded manually via File>Scripts>Run Script File.


 * Scritps can be run from Adobe's Scripting Editor.


 * Some scripts can also be run from an expressions field.