How to Use Bezier Interpolation in After Effects

This guide explains how to apply and adjust Bezier keyframe interpolation in Adobe After Effects to create smooth, natural animations. Bezier interpolation moves beyond rigid, linear transitions by allowing you to curve motion paths and manipulate the speed of an animation using direction handles. Below, you will find direct instructions on converting linear keyframes into Bezier keyframes and fine-tuning them within the Graph Editor.

Converting Keyframes to Bezier in the Timeline

To convert default linear keyframes into Bezier keyframes:

  1. Select one or more keyframes on the timeline.
  2. Right-click an active keyframe and select Keyframe Interpolation (or press Ctrl+Alt+K on Windows / Cmd+Option+K on Mac).
  3. In the dialog box, locate Temporal Interpolation (speed) and Spatial Interpolation (path), and set either or both dropdown menus to Bezier, Continuous Bezier, or Auto Bezier.
  4. Click OK.

You can also use timeline shortcuts:

  • Auto Bezier: Hold Ctrl (Windows) or Cmd (Mac) and click a keyframe to convert it into a round Auto Bezier keyframe.
  • Easy Ease (Bezier): Press F9 to apply standard Bezier easing to both sides of the selected keyframe.

Fine-Tuning Curves in the Graph Editor

To gain full manual control over Bezier velocity and value curves:

  1. Select the animated property on your layer and click the Graph Editor button at the top of the timeline panel (or press Shift+F3).
  2. Right-click the graph background and ensure you are viewing either the Edit Speed Graph or the Edit Value Graph, depending on what you want to adjust.
  3. Select the keyframe on the graph. Yellow Bezier directional handles will appear extending from the keyframe point.
  4. Click and drag the handles:
    • Drag horizontally to control the acceleration and deceleration timing (influence).
    • Drag vertically to adjust the maximum speed or specific property value.
  5. To break the handles and adjust the incoming and outgoing curves independently, hold Alt (Windows) or Option (Mac) while dragging a handle.

Adjusting Spatial Bezier Handles in the Composition Panel

When animating 2D or 3D position, After Effects draws a physical motion path in the Composition panel:

  1. Select the layer with the position animation.
  2. Select the Convert Vertex Tool from the toolbar (located under the Pen tool flyout, or cycle using G).
  3. Click on any position keyframe along the motion path in the Composition view to convert it to Bezier.
  4. Drag the resulting direction handles outward from the point to bend the trajectory of the movement.